Obituary of Dena Joling

Dena Joling, age 92, of Wisconsin Rapids, was called home to be with the Lord Friday, December 26, 2014 at Hilltop Assisted Living, with two of her daughters at her side. Services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, December 31, 2014, at New Hope Community Church in Wisconsin Rapids. Rev. Mary Bosch will officiate. Burial will be at Christian Reformed Cemetery in the Town of Sigel. Visitation will be from 5:00 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. Tuesday, December 30, 2014 at the church, with a hymn sing to follow. Dena was born August 6, 1922 to Gerrit and Dina (TeKampe) Smits in Arpin, Wisconsin. In her early years Dena worked as a telephone operator in Vesper, and she also worked for the Frank Gill Paint Company. She later worked at W.R.P.S. in food service at West Jr. High. Dena married Bert Joling June 1, 1939 in the Town of Arpin; they were married for 73 years. Dena loved to sew for her six girls. She truly enjoyed cooking, canning and was known as the "Coffee Lady" at church. She was a lifelong member of New Hope Community Church. Dena and Bert had volunteered for Meals on Wheels for over 20 years. Dena is survived by six daughters: Donna (Alan) Bliek, Wisconsin Rapids, WI; Joanne (John) VanderLugt, Hudsonville, MI; Karen(Dave) Van Vuren, Tucson, AZ; Beverly (Aldie) Altena, Hull, IA; Rose (Morry) Blankespoor, Pella, IA; and Shirley (Ken) Engelsman, Denver, CO; 21 grandchildren: 57 great grandchildren, two great great-grandchildren and sister- in- law: Maxine Joling. She was preceded in death by her husband Bert, six brothers, two sisters, and great grandson Micah. Memorial contributions may be made to the Local Habitat for Humanity, Destiny Point or a charity of choice. Dena led a life of faith, knowing that her only comfort in life and death was that she belonged to her faithful Savior Jesus Christ. The family thanks the staffs of Hilltop Terrace and the Ministry Home Care Hospice for their loving care of Dena. Herman-Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Wisconsin Rapids is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.taylorfuneralhome.net