Dorothy H. (Pemberton) Scripsema

Dorothy Helen Scripsema passed away peacefully on July 4, 2016 at age 89 in Grand Rapids, MI. She will be lovingly remembered by Jack, her devoted husband of 62 years, and their children, Margaret McInerney (Kirk) of Winnetka, IL, Susan Parsons (Jim) of New Canaan, CT, Nancy Koenig (Ted) of Highland Park, IL, and Karie Todey (Brian) of Ada, MI.  Thirteen grandchildren will dearly miss her; Brian, Julianne and Nancy McInerney; Christine, Ashley, Molly and Hayley Parsons; Michael, Stephanie, David and Jonathan Koenig; Taylor and Jackson Todey. Grammie cherished every minute spent with her adoring grandchildren. Dorie was born on April 13, 1927 in Howell, MI to the late L. Claude and Hazel Pemberton. She was preceded in death by her siblings; Margaret Speer (John), Robert Pemberton (Patricia) and Marilyn Murray (Harold).

Dorie grew up in Lansing, MI where she graduated from Sexton High School and attended Michigan State University, representing the school at the 6th National Collegiate Golf Tournament for Women. As an early adult, she helped her father in his business ventures. Dorie met Jack Scripsema when they were paired together on a blind golf date, which quickly blossomed into a lifetime of love. They were married in 1954 and proceeded to make family life and children their greatest treasures. Backyard picnics with friends, planting flowers in the garden and activities on the Thornapple River are some of the family’s favorite memories.

In addition to raising four daughters, Dorie remained an accomplished golfer throughout her lifetime. She was runner-up of the Women’s Michigan Amateur Championship in 1956, Grand Rapids City Champion seven times and won the club championship at Cascade and Kent 37 times. In 2011, Dorie was honored to be inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame. She played golf like she led her life; with integrity, grace and modesty. Dorie considered herself fortunate to make long lasting friendships with many people at Cascade Hills Country Club and Kent Country Club. Jack and Dorie spent their winters in Naples, FL and enjoyed opening their home to family and friends there. The grandchildren, in particular, have wonderful memories of spending time with Grammie and Grampy in Naples. Always compassionate toward children in need, she generously donated winter coats, toys and meals to school children. Ada Congregational Church has been a source of strength for the family. Dorie will always be remembered for her kind words, compassionate gestures and love of family.

The family will greet visitors on Friday, July 15 from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00pm at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service.  A Memorial Service will be celebrated on Saturday, July 16 at 11:00 at Ada Congregational Church, 6330 Ada Dr. SE, Ada. In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions can be made to Kids Food Basket, 2055 Oak Industrial Dr. NE #C, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.

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