Wilda Hollenbeck

Wilda May Hollenbeck, 85, of Kewadin, passed away Thursday, April 9, 2015 while resting comfortably in her home. Wilda was born on June 11, 1929, in Central Lake to the late Roland and Gladys (Metty)Hayes. She married the love of her life, Marlen Hollenbeck of Kewadin, on Aug.24, 1949, in Angola, Indiana. Wilda, also known as "Grandma H", was beloved by many in her small town of Kewadin where she lived for 66 years. Those who knew her knew she worked hard and loved well. She was a dedicated employee of Morrison Orchards and Great Lakes Packing, working 34 years sorting apples and cherries with pride. Even recently, when faced with health obstacles, she longed to get back to work. Marlen and Wilda owned and operated Riverside Collision, now known as Shell gas station in Elk Rapids for many years. When she wasn't working, visiting with family and friends at her picnic table under her grand maple tree was one of Wilda's greatest joys. Fond memories of spending time with Wilda at her Kewadin home are surely held by many. She was a loving wife and mother of four, proud grandmother to five grandchildren, five great grandchildren and a spitfire of a friend to countless individuals. There are few in this world like Wilda Hollenbeck and without a doubt, Wilda's love, companionship, and personality will be missed by many. Wilda is survived by her daughter Connie (Jim) Misico, two sons Kenneth and Marlen (Tammy) Hollenbeck, five grandchildren Michelle (Jeff) Umstead, Nicole (Adam) Ziegler, Nichole (Jake) Gradel, William Argue, Spencer Hollenbeck, five great grandchildren Taylor (Kelsey) Umstead, Parker and Beckett Ziegler, Mason and Owen Gradel, as well as many extended family and friends. Preceding her in death was her husband Marlen, her daughter Laura Ray and several sisters and brothers. Funeral services will take place Monday, April 13, at 3 p.m. at the Kewadin United Methodist Church with Rev. Eugene Baughan officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 pm until the time of service also at the church. Burial will take place in Maple Grove Cemetery, Elk Rapids. Memorial donations can be made to the Kewadin United Methodist Church, PO BOX 277, Kewadin, MI 49648, or Munson Hospice. Arrangements have been handled by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.