On June 30, 2012, Gertrude Ruth (Holwerda) Swagman, age 92, was welcomed into the presence of her faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.

Gertrude was a dedicated Christian school teacher at Baxter Christian, Creston Christian, and Godwin Christian Schools for 26 years. She was predeceased by her husband, Matthew Swagman, their infant son, Timothy Swagman, and a sister, Margery Douma.

She is survived by her son and daughters: William and Ann Swagman, Ellen and Jim Bruinsma, and Beth Swagman; Her beloved grandchildren: Joel Swagman, Kirstin Swagman and Tayt Tindal, Kyle and Amy Swagman, Jessica Swagman-Debbink and Jason Debbink, Alyssa and Steve Poelstra, David Bruinsma, and Betsy Bruinsma; Her great-grandchildren: Taylor and Schuyler Tindal; Haven, Lyric and Seren Swagman; Faith and Shane Poelstra. She is also survived by brothers and a sister: George R. Holwerda, Billie Horwood, Gary Douma, Harvey Holwerda, and Matthew (Joyce) Holwerda; Many cousins, nieces and nephews; and lifelong friend, Mae Van Hekken.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 6, 2012 from 2:00-4:00PM and 6:00-9:00PM at the Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton SE, in Grand Rapids.

A service of celebration and remembrance will take place Sunday, July 8 at 3:00PM at Eastern Avenue Christian Reformed Church, 514 Eastern Avenue, Grand Rapids. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Calvin Christian School Association, 3750 Ivanrest Ave. SW, Grandville, MI 49418.

The family is being served by the staff of Lakeshore Memorial Services, in Holland. Please visit www.lakeshorememorial.com to leave a message or memory for the Swagman family.