Mary Linda (Englerth) Herrema of Hopkins died Tuesday, March 19. Born Dec. 20, 1938, she was 85.

Born in Grand Rapids to Lawrence and Winifred (Johnson) Englerth, Mary grew up with a passion for the natural world that would blossom into a lifetime of nurturing growth in both her gardens and her family.

A graduate of Kelloggsville High School in 1957, she pursued further education with vigor and curiosity. While her academic journey included some college, it was her innate talent for horticulture that truly defined her professional path. Mary’s green thumb and artistic eye led her to enhance the family business, Englerth Gardens, where she thrived as a grower and designer.

A woman of faith, Mary was a dedicated member of her church, where she proudly lifted her voice in song as a member of the choir. Her love for Jesus was evident in her every action, and she lived her life as a testament to her beliefs. Mary’s creative spirit and loving nature were the cornerstones of her existence, and these traits shone brightly in her every endeavor.

An animal lover, Mary found great happiness in the company of her dogs and cats, but it was her horse, Daisy May, that held a special place in her heart. Raising and riding horses was not just a hobby for Mary, but a way of life that brought her immense joy and peace. She shared this love with her grandchildren, creating cherished memories during their trips to the beach on Lake Michigan.

Mary’s life was a tapestry woven with love, faith, and creativity. She approached each day with a heart full of love, a soul sustained by faith, and a mind brimming with creative ideas. Her life was a reflection of the words that best described her: loving, faith-filled, and creative. Mary will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on as a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mary’s life was one of deep devotion, not only to her gardens but also to her husband of 64 years, Ken Herrema. She leaves behind a legacy of love with her children, Kenneth Daniel Herrema, Heather (Jeff) Ledger, Holly (Tom) De Shane, and Skipper David Herrema. Her brother and sister-in-law, Barb (Frank) Reeder, will also have memories of the times they shared.

Mary’s joy was multiplied through her 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Mary’s visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 26, at Hopkins United Methodist Church from with a funeral at 11 a.m., officiated by Pastor Kelsey French. A private graveside will follow the service to Maplewood Cemetery with an open luncheon to follow.

Mary’s visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m.  Tuesday, March 26, at Hopkins United Methodist Church. The funeral will be at 11 a.m., officiated by Pastor Kelsey French. A private graveside will follow the service to Maplewood Cemetery with an open luncheon afterward.