Helen M. Gunder

Helen M. Gunder, age 99, formerly of Ithaca, Michigan, went to be with her Lord and Savior March 26, 2012. She was born August 1, 1912 at Britton, Michigan, of Alfred and Jennie (Hoagland) Haystead. She lived at Edison Manor in Grand Rapids since 2005. She was preceded in death in 2003 by her husband of 70 years, Charles Robert. She is survived by her children John (Joyce) Gunder of Jackson, Michigan; Joyce (Dennis) Boonstra of Sand Lake, Michigan; Kathleen (Kenneth) Vince of Flushing, Michigan; and Charles (Erin) Gunder of Palm Harbor, Florida. Also, she is survived by 14 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 5 great great grandchildren. Her sister Virginia (Walter) Riley of Lansing survives her, as do 2 nieces and 1 nephew. Her earlier life was filled with serving God in her church, showing hospitality to friends and family, and she always enjoyed being with people and interacting with them.

Funeral services will be held at Barden Funeral Home in Ithaca on Thursday, March 29, at 1:00 p.m., with Rev. Dennis Boonstra officiating. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.  prior to the service. Interment will follow at Ithaca Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Ithaca Baptist Church or Continental Baptist Mission, Rockford, Michigan.