Dolores F (Izenbart) Trompen

Dolores “Dodo” Faye Trompen age 94, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 30, 2025. She is now at home with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Dolores, lovingly known as “Dodo,” was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest. She leaves behind a devoted family: her children Judi (Doug) Lipinski, Tom Trompen, Mike (Terry) Trompen, and Jean (Shawn) Pursley; her sister, Shirley Gunnett; her brother, Larry Izenbart; and many dear nieces and nephews. She was a proud grandmother to Jeff (Betsy) Lipinski, Kari (Jason) Pater, Alex (Alexandra) Trompen, Connor Trompen, Madison Trompen, Lauren Pursley, and Zeus Pursley, and great-grandmother to Ben, Anne, Arie, and Rowan—who affectionately called her “Grandma Great.”

Dodo graduated from Creston High School in 1947, overcoming her father’s objections to girls pursuing education. She later worked at Bell Telephone before marrying Ernest Trompen on June 27, 1950. Together, they built a home filled with love and faith.

She was known for her endless energy, raising four children while working for many years as a school bus driver with Forest Hills Schools. Beloved by her riders, she earned the nickname “Grandma School Bus.” Dodo also had a passion for garage sales, famously hosting her biannual barn sales that neighbors and friends looked forward to.

Creative, feisty and active, Dodo loved painting—so much so that she painted not only her own home but also walls in her church, Knapp Reformed Church, where she was a lifelong member. She played first base on the church softball team alongside her daughters, filling summers with fun memories. She found peace in her garden, where she grew beautiful flowers and vegetables, and she inspired her family to join her in the work.

A devoted MSU Spartan fan, Dodo proudly kept a photo book of Spartan players she met after games. She faithfully followed basketball and football and celebrated each win as if it were her own.

Most importantly, Dodo’s faith guided her life. She loved the Lord deeply, served faithfully in women’s groups at church, and cherished the mother-daughter banquets she attended.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the loving teams at Heather Hills and Hospice for their compassionate care.

Dodo’s life was marked by faith, love, and joy, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Memorial contributions may be made to Knapp Valley Church Outreach Fund.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dolores F (Izenbart) Trompen, please visit our floral store.