Geraldine M. Van Herp, age 97, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert; her children, Janis and Brian; her parents, Walter and Florence Meier; her sister, Maxine (Henry) Dabrowski; her sister-in-law, Kathryn VanderPerel; niece Mary Janulis; and nephews, Fred Janulis, Timothy and Mark Dabrowski.
Geri is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Julie; her daughter-in-law, Rosalia; her cherished granddaughter, Nickol; her nephews, including David Dabrowski and Greg Dabrowski and their families; and nieces, Diana Janulis Gay and Robin Janulis Martillota and their families. She is also survived by her dear parish family at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, where she was a faithful and devoted member.
Geri earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and dedicated 30 years of service to the pharmacy at Blodgett Hospital. She was an active member of the Kent County Pharmaceutical Association and generously gave her time to her church community through the Immaculate Heart of Mary Women’s Guild, as an Adoration Chapel Partner, and as one of the “Heavenly Dusters.”
A woman of many talents and interests, Geri found joy in gardening, painting, sewing, and knitting. She was an avid reader—especially of mystery novels—and never passed up a good crossword puzzle. Her creativity, intelligence, quiet strength, and faithful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Heather Hills for their compassionate care over the past few years.
Visitation with the family will be held from 2-5PM on Monday, February 23, 2026, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49546, with a rosary at 4:30PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11AM on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, 1935 Plymouth Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506, with visitation one hour prior. Interment Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.
One Response
Growing up in Grand Rapids with Brian and his buddies, I was at the VanHerp’s house all the time, whether to listen to the latest release from Led Zeppelin, develop film and print pictures in Brian’s dark room, or send signals on Van’s Ham radio all around the world. Mrs. VanHerp was always happy to see us. Quick with a smile, she would listen to our latest escapades and caution us not to get “too wild.” Her patience and kindness were immeasurable. And, she always had cookies waiting for us, hot out of the oven! I didn’t know it then, but she treated me like I was one of her own. She was like a second mom to me. I am forever grateful for her care and love. She will always have a special place in my heart.