Laurel Anne Albers (Swanson)
The lives of many people were destined to be touched by love, humor, and wit when Laurel Anne Albers was born on October 20, 1958.
The middle child of three, Laurel was born to Rose and Robert Albers of Grand Rapids. Her father's career in the medical world as a surgical resident at St. Mary's Hospital kept him busy with both family and work. Her mother Rose, a 2nd grade teacher, was busy as well with both career and homemaking. Later on Rose left her career to devote her time to her family which now included three children; Michael, Laurel and Mark.
The Albers moved to Holland when Laurel was five years old. Even at this young age Laurel was already displaying what would come to be known as that quintessential "fun-loving" personality trait that everyone loved about her. During these formative years, Laurel developed an affinity for reading, especially that which was related to magic and myth. We're sure this helped in her efforts to frighten her little brother and his friends, exacting revenge for their pranks! (Laurel's interest in the world of science fiction would later in life have her a devoted fan of both the Star Trek shows and the Lord of the Rings series).
Early in Laurel's childhood she discovered what would be her lifelong love of animals - in particular, her beloved canine companions. Halloween never failed to bring out yet another creative aspect of Laur's personality. She would enjoy the fun involved with designing and wearing of costumes all of her life. While Laurel participated as a young girl in the Tulip Time parades, as a Klompen dancer, it was her candle making at Dutch Village that would reveal an artistic talent of hers that she would use and enjoy later in life.
Laurel developed many friendships with girls and boys alike from around the neighborhood . . . relationships that remained close all of her life. Music was an important part of their gatherings, the Beatles music in particular. After graduating from Holland Public Schools in 1976, Laurel attended both Ferris State and Davenport Colleges. Her effervescent personality and love of people as well as her interest in gourmet cuisine made her first career choice a natural fit. She worked at fine restaurants in the area including; the Hatch, Hollidome of Holland, Pearl Street Restaurant, 1913 Room and Roses Restaurant in East Grand Rapids. Outgoing and personable, Laurel became a favorite with many of the restaurant's patrons. But more than this, her greatest gift from working in that industry was a fortuitous meeting with a gentleman who would bring to her personal life her most treasured relationship.
Outside of work, her friendships and family, Laurel enjoyed horseback riding, swimming and golfing. Access to her father's boat on Lake Macatawa was a nice perk, that is if her brother Mark wasn't out with his friends, testing the boat's limits and their father's tolerance levels! Family downhill ski trips to Colorado and various resorts in Michigan turned Laurel into a graceful skier. While her brother Mike moved onto the black Diamond runs, Laurel found time to socialize in the lodge or grab a hot cocoa while reading a favorite book. A good sport, Laurel never really complained about the cold. When her brother Mike went to college the families ski trips turned into vacations to warmer southern areas. Laurel was especially moved on one of these trips by the garden-like beauty of Jekyll Island. We remember that during this same trip her father extended a daring challenge to her of walking through an old cemetery during a nighttime storm coming ashore, which she fearlessly accepted, once again showing her adventurous nature.
Laurel's love of nature grew. Her mother's role in the Holland Garden Club created an opportunity for Laurel to enter flower arrangements in competitions, which brought her design awards. Along with her gardens, Laurel nurtured the birds she so loved to watch and attract with bird feeders in her yard. Holland offered many opportunities for Laurel to continue her appreciation of nature. Long walks with her golden retriever, Missy (her best buddy of 18 years), through the woods and by the Lake Michigan shoreline along with some nighttime beach parties with friends were among her favorite activities.
During an evening out on a date with a friend, Laurel saw Matthew Swanson, a friend and co-worker of hers from Pearl Street Restaurant. Wishing he were the one out with Laurel that evening, Matt approached her and said: "you are out with the wrong man"! This was one of the many characteristics of Matt's personality that Laurel so cherished. She accepted an invitation to brunch as their first date and thus began a deeper friendship between them. Love then marriage followed on August 22, 1998 at "Winterberry", the home of Matthew's parents in Muskegon.
Both Laurel and Matt were interested in art and worked side-by-side to start their business, "Artwise Fine Art and Custom Framing" in 1995. They were renowned for their creative and artistic talents by many art connoisseurs and shipped their work all over the world.
Laurel was diagnosed with breast cancer, and with Matt by her side, she fought for life. Throughout years of treatments, Laurel maintained her dignity and sense of humor. Matt demonstrated integrity, strength and a deep love for Laurel that made her final years the best they could be. During Laurel's final moments, Matt shared their favorite Beatles ballad with her.
A loving wife to Matthew, Laurel Anne Albers was a gracious daughter for Robert and Rose Albers, a lifelong friend to her brothers, Michael and Mark. She was a friend to many who will attest to her tenacity and grace. Laurel was a special gift to all who loved her.
Laurel Anne Albers passed away on December 16, 2005 at her home after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. She is survived by her husband Matthew Swanson of Holland; her parents, Dr. Robert Albers and Rose Albers of Holland; her brother Michael and Kathy Albers of Collegeville, PA; her brother, Mark Albers and Kate Brown of Holland; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Howard and Marilyn Swanson of Muskegon; her brother-in-law, Mark Swanson of Minneapolis, Lynne Swanson and Dr. Gary Ralph of Lansing, John and Robin Swanson of Muskegon; her nieces and nephew, Martha Albers and Mitchell Albers of Collegeville, PA; Jillian Albers of Holland; Jesse, Cassie, Grace Swanson of Muskegon and Ben Swanson Ralph of Lansing.
Cremation has taken place with interment of ashes at Restlawn Memorial Gardens in Holland.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday at 11:00am at the Dykstra Life Story Funeral Homes, Mulder Chapel, 188 West 32nd Street, Holland, with Reverend Lynn DeMoss officiating.
Visitation will held from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Please visit Laurel's personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a memory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland of The Alliance For The Great Lakes.
The lives of many people were destined to be touched by love, humor, and wit when Laurel Anne Albers was born on October 20, 1958.
The middle child of three, Laurel was born to Rose and Robert Albers of Grand Rapids. Her father's career in the medical world as a surgical resident at St. Mary's Hospital kept him busy with both family and work. Her mother Rose, a 2nd grade teacher, was busy as well with both career and homemaking. Later on Rose left her career to devote her time to her family which now included three children; Michael, Laurel and Mark.
The Albers moved to Holland when Laurel was five years old. Even at this young age Laurel was already displaying what would come to be known as that quintessential "fun-loving" personality trait that everyone loved about her. During these formative years, Laurel developed an affinity for reading, especially that which was related to magic and myth. We're sure this helped in her efforts to frighten her little brother and his friends, exacting revenge for their pranks! (Laurel's interest in the world of science fiction would later in life have her a devoted fan of both the Star Trek shows and the Lord of the Rings series).
Early in Laurel's childhood she discovered what would be her lifelong love of animals - in particular, her beloved canine companions. Halloween never failed to bring out yet another creative aspect of Laur's personality. She would enjoy the fun involved with designing and wearing of costumes all of her life. While Laurel participated as a young girl in the Tulip Time parades, as a Klompen dancer, it was her candle making at Dutch Village that would reveal an artistic talent of hers that she would use and enjoy later in life.
Laurel developed many friendships with girls and boys alike from around the neighborhood . . . relationships that remained close all of her life. Music was an important part of their gatherings, the Beatles music in particular. After graduating from Holland Public Schools in 1976, Laurel attended both Ferris State and Davenport Colleges. Her effervescent personality and love of people as well as her interest in gourmet cuisine made her first career choice a natural fit. She worked at fine restaurants in the area including; the Hatch, Hollidome of Holland, Pearl Street Restaurant, 1913 Room and Roses Restaurant in East Grand Rapids. Outgoing and personable, Laurel became a favorite with many of the restaurant's patrons. But more than this, her greatest gift from working in that industry was a fortuitous meeting with a gentleman who would bring to her personal life her most treasured relationship.
Outside of work, her friendships and family, Laurel enjoyed horseback riding, swimming and golfing. Access to her father's boat on Lake Macatawa was a nice perk, that is if her brother Mark wasn't out with his friends, testing the boat's limits and their father's tolerance levels! Family downhill ski trips to Colorado and various resorts in Michigan turned Laurel into a graceful skier. While her brother Mike moved onto the black Diamond runs, Laurel found time to socialize in the lodge or grab a hot cocoa while reading a favorite book. A good sport, Laurel never really complained about the cold. When her brother Mike went to college the families ski trips turned into vacations to warmer southern areas. Laurel was especially moved on one of these trips by the garden-like beauty of Jekyll Island. We remember that during this same trip her father extended a daring challenge to her of walking through an old cemetery during a nighttime storm coming ashore, which she fearlessly accepted, once again showing her adventurous nature.
Laurel's love of nature grew. Her mother's role in the Holland Garden Club created an opportunity for Laurel to enter flower arrangements in competitions, which brought her design awards. Along with her gardens, Laurel nurtured the birds she so loved to watch and attract with bird feeders in her yard. Holland offered many opportunities for Laurel to continue her appreciation of nature. Long walks with her golden retriever, Missy (her best buddy of 18 years), through the woods and by the Lake Michigan shoreline along with some nighttime beach parties with friends were among her favorite activities.
During an evening out on a date with a friend, Laurel saw Matthew Swanson, a friend and co-worker of hers from Pearl Street Restaurant. Wishing he were the one out with Laurel that evening, Matt approached her and said: "you are out with the wrong man"! This was one of the many characteristics of Matt's personality that Laurel so cherished. She accepted an invitation to brunch as their first date and thus began a deeper friendship between them. Love then marriage followed on August 22, 1998 at "Winterberry", the home of Matthew's parents in Muskegon.
Both Laurel and Matt were interested in art and worked side-by-side to start their business, "Artwise Fine Art and Custom Framing" in 1995. They were renowned for their creative and artistic talents by many art connoisseurs and shipped their work all over the world.
Laurel was diagnosed with breast cancer, and with Matt by her side, she fought for life. Throughout years of treatments, Laurel maintained her dignity and sense of humor. Matt demonstrated integrity, strength and a deep love for Laurel that made her final years the best they could be. During Laurel's final moments, Matt shared their favorite Beatles ballad with her.
A loving wife to Matthew, Laurel Anne Albers was a gracious daughter for Robert and Rose Albers, a lifelong friend to her brothers, Michael and Mark. She was a friend to many who will attest to her tenacity and grace. Laurel was a special gift to all who loved her.
Laurel Anne Albers passed away on December 16, 2005 at her home after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. She is survived by her husband Matthew Swanson of Holland; her parents, Dr. Robert Albers and Rose Albers of Holland; her brother Michael and Kathy Albers of Collegeville, PA; her brother, Mark Albers and Kate Brown of Holland; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Howard and Marilyn Swanson of Muskegon; her brother-in-law, Mark Swanson of Minneapolis, Lynne Swanson and Dr. Gary Ralph of Lansing, John and Robin Swanson of Muskegon; her nieces and nephew, Martha Albers and Mitchell Albers of Collegeville, PA; Jillian Albers of Holland; Jesse, Cassie, Grace Swanson of Muskegon and Ben Swanson Ralph of Lansing.
Cremation has taken place with interment of ashes at Restlawn Memorial Gardens in Holland.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday at 11:00am at the Dykstra Life Story Funeral Homes, Mulder Chapel, 188 West 32nd Street, Holland, with Reverend Lynn DeMoss officiating.
Visitation will held from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Please visit Laurel's personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a memory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland of The Alliance For The Great Lakes.
Laurel Anne Albers (Swanson)
The lives of many people were destined to be touched by love, humor, and wit when Laurel Anne Albers was born on October 20, 1958.
The middle child of three, Laurel was born to Rose and Robert Albers of Grand Rapids. Her father's career in the medical world as a surgical resident at St. Mary's Hospital kept him busy with both family and work. Her mother Rose, a 2nd grade teacher, was busy as well with both career and homemaking. Later on Rose left her career to devote her time to her family which now included three children; Michael, Laurel and Mark.
The Albers moved to Holland when Laurel was five years old. Even at this young age Laurel was already displaying what would come to be known as that quintessential "fun-loving" personality trait that everyone loved about her. During these formative years, Laurel developed an affinity for reading, especially that which was related to magic and myth. We're sure this helped in her efforts to frighten her little brother and his friends, exacting revenge for their pranks! (Laurel's interest in the world of science fiction would later in life have her a devoted fan of both the Star Trek shows and the Lord of the Rings series).
Early in Laurel's childhood she discovered what would be her lifelong love of animals - in particular, her beloved canine companions. Halloween never failed to bring out yet another creative aspect of Laur's personality. She would enjoy the fun involved with designing and wearing of costumes all of her life. While Laurel participated as a young girl in the Tulip Time parades, as a Klompen dancer, it was her candle making at Dutch Village that would reveal an artistic talent of hers that she would use and enjoy later in life.
Laurel developed many friendships with girls and boys alike from around the neighborhood . . . relationships that remained close all of her life. Music was an important part of their gatherings, the Beatles music in particular. After graduating from Holland Public Schools in 1976, Laurel attended both Ferris State and Davenport Colleges. Her effervescent personality and love of people as well as her interest in gourmet cuisine made her first career choice a natural fit. She worked at fine restaurants in the area including; the Hatch, Hollidome of Holland, Pearl Street Restaurant, 1913 Room and Roses Restaurant in East Grand Rapids. Outgoing and personable, Laurel became a favorite with many of the restaurant's patrons. But more than this, her greatest gift from working in that industry was a fortuitous meeting with a gentleman who would bring to her personal life her most treasured relationship.
Outside of work, her friendships and family, Laurel enjoyed horseback riding, swimming and golfing. Access to her father's boat on Lake Macatawa was a nice perk, that is if her brother Mark wasn't out with his friends, testing the boat's limits and their father's tolerance levels! Family downhill ski trips to Colorado and various resorts in Michigan turned Laurel into a graceful skier. While her brother Mike moved onto the black Diamond runs, Laurel found time to socialize in the lodge or grab a hot cocoa while reading a favorite book. A good sport, Laurel never really complained about the cold. When her brother Mike went to college the families ski trips turned into vacations to warmer southern areas. Laurel was especially moved on one of these trips by the garden-like beauty of Jekyll Island. We remember that during this same trip her father extended a daring challenge to her of walking through an old cemetery during a nighttime storm coming ashore, which she fearlessly accepted, once again showing her adventurous nature.
Laurel's love of nature grew. Her mother's role in the Holland Garden Club created an opportunity for Laurel to enter flower arrangements in competitions, which brought her design awards. Along with her gardens, Laurel nurtured the birds she so loved to watch and attract with bird feeders in her yard. Holland offered many opportunities for Laurel to continue her appreciation of nature. Long walks with her golden retriever, Missy (her best buddy of 18 years), through the woods and by the Lake Michigan shoreline along with some nighttime beach parties with friends were among her favorite activities.
During an evening out on a date with a friend, Laurel saw Matthew Swanson, a friend and co-worker of hers from Pearl Street Restaurant. Wishing he were the one out with Laurel that evening, Matt approached her and said: "you are out with the wrong man"! This was one of the many characteristics of Matt's personality that Laurel so cherished. She accepted an invitation to brunch as their first date and thus began a deeper friendship between them. Love then marriage followed on August 22, 1998 at "Winterberry", the home of Matthew's parents in Muskegon.
Both Laurel and Matt were interested in art and worked side-by-side to start their business, "Artwise Fine Art and Custom Framing" in 1995. They were renowned for their creative and artistic talents by many art connoisseurs and shipped their work all over the world.
Laurel was diagnosed with breast cancer, and with Matt by her side, she fought for life. Throughout years of treatments, Laurel maintained her dignity and sense of humor. Matt demonstrated integrity, strength and a deep love for Laurel that made her final years the best they could be. During Laurel's final moments, Matt shared their favorite Beatles ballad with her.
A loving wife to Matthew, Laurel Anne Albers was a gracious daughter for Robert and Rose Albers, a lifelong friend to her brothers, Michael and Mark. She was a friend to many who will attest to her tenacity and grace. Laurel was a special gift to all who loved her.
Laurel Anne Albers passed away on December 16, 2005 at her home after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. She is survived by her husband Matthew Swanson of Holland; her parents, Dr. Robert Albers and Rose Albers of Holland; her brother Michael and Kathy Albers of Collegeville, PA; her brother, Mark Albers and Kate Brown of Holland; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Howard and Marilyn Swanson of Muskegon; her brother-in-law, Mark Swanson of Minneapolis, Lynne Swanson and Dr. Gary Ralph of Lansing, John and Robin Swanson of Muskegon; her nieces and nephew, Martha Albers and Mitchell Albers of Collegeville, PA; Jillian Albers of Holland; Jesse, Cassie, Grace Swanson of Muskegon and Ben Swanson Ralph of Lansing.
Cremation has taken place with interment of ashes at Restlawn Memorial Gardens in Holland.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday at 11:00am at the Dykstra Life Story Funeral Homes, Mulder Chapel, 188 West 32nd Street, Holland, with Reverend Lynn DeMoss officiating.
Visitation will held from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Please visit Laurel's personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a memory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland of The Alliance For The Great Lakes.
The lives of many people were destined to be touched by love, humor, and wit when Laurel Anne Albers was born on October 20, 1958.
The middle child of three, Laurel was born to Rose and Robert Albers of Grand Rapids. Her father's career in the medical world as a surgical resident at St. Mary's Hospital kept him busy with both family and work. Her mother Rose, a 2nd grade teacher, was busy as well with both career and homemaking. Later on Rose left her career to devote her time to her family which now included three children; Michael, Laurel and Mark.
The Albers moved to Holland when Laurel was five years old. Even at this young age Laurel was already displaying what would come to be known as that quintessential "fun-loving" personality trait that everyone loved about her. During these formative years, Laurel developed an affinity for reading, especially that which was related to magic and myth. We're sure this helped in her efforts to frighten her little brother and his friends, exacting revenge for their pranks! (Laurel's interest in the world of science fiction would later in life have her a devoted fan of both the Star Trek shows and the Lord of the Rings series).
Early in Laurel's childhood she discovered what would be her lifelong love of animals - in particular, her beloved canine companions. Halloween never failed to bring out yet another creative aspect of Laur's personality. She would enjoy the fun involved with designing and wearing of costumes all of her life. While Laurel participated as a young girl in the Tulip Time parades, as a Klompen dancer, it was her candle making at Dutch Village that would reveal an artistic talent of hers that she would use and enjoy later in life.
Laurel developed many friendships with girls and boys alike from around the neighborhood . . . relationships that remained close all of her life. Music was an important part of their gatherings, the Beatles music in particular. After graduating from Holland Public Schools in 1976, Laurel attended both Ferris State and Davenport Colleges. Her effervescent personality and love of people as well as her interest in gourmet cuisine made her first career choice a natural fit. She worked at fine restaurants in the area including; the Hatch, Hollidome of Holland, Pearl Street Restaurant, 1913 Room and Roses Restaurant in East Grand Rapids. Outgoing and personable, Laurel became a favorite with many of the restaurant's patrons. But more than this, her greatest gift from working in that industry was a fortuitous meeting with a gentleman who would bring to her personal life her most treasured relationship.
Outside of work, her friendships and family, Laurel enjoyed horseback riding, swimming and golfing. Access to her father's boat on Lake Macatawa was a nice perk, that is if her brother Mark wasn't out with his friends, testing the boat's limits and their father's tolerance levels! Family downhill ski trips to Colorado and various resorts in Michigan turned Laurel into a graceful skier. While her brother Mike moved onto the black Diamond runs, Laurel found time to socialize in the lodge or grab a hot cocoa while reading a favorite book. A good sport, Laurel never really complained about the cold. When her brother Mike went to college the families ski trips turned into vacations to warmer southern areas. Laurel was especially moved on one of these trips by the garden-like beauty of Jekyll Island. We remember that during this same trip her father extended a daring challenge to her of walking through an old cemetery during a nighttime storm coming ashore, which she fearlessly accepted, once again showing her adventurous nature.
Laurel's love of nature grew. Her mother's role in the Holland Garden Club created an opportunity for Laurel to enter flower arrangements in competitions, which brought her design awards. Along with her gardens, Laurel nurtured the birds she so loved to watch and attract with bird feeders in her yard. Holland offered many opportunities for Laurel to continue her appreciation of nature. Long walks with her golden retriever, Missy (her best buddy of 18 years), through the woods and by the Lake Michigan shoreline along with some nighttime beach parties with friends were among her favorite activities.
During an evening out on a date with a friend, Laurel saw Matthew Swanson, a friend and co-worker of hers from Pearl Street Restaurant. Wishing he were the one out with Laurel that evening, Matt approached her and said: "you are out with the wrong man"! This was one of the many characteristics of Matt's personality that Laurel so cherished. She accepted an invitation to brunch as their first date and thus began a deeper friendship between them. Love then marriage followed on August 22, 1998 at "Winterberry", the home of Matthew's parents in Muskegon.
Both Laurel and Matt were interested in art and worked side-by-side to start their business, "Artwise Fine Art and Custom Framing" in 1995. They were renowned for their creative and artistic talents by many art connoisseurs and shipped their work all over the world.
Laurel was diagnosed with breast cancer, and with Matt by her side, she fought for life. Throughout years of treatments, Laurel maintained her dignity and sense of humor. Matt demonstrated integrity, strength and a deep love for Laurel that made her final years the best they could be. During Laurel's final moments, Matt shared their favorite Beatles ballad with her.
A loving wife to Matthew, Laurel Anne Albers was a gracious daughter for Robert and Rose Albers, a lifelong friend to her brothers, Michael and Mark. She was a friend to many who will attest to her tenacity and grace. Laurel was a special gift to all who loved her.
Laurel Anne Albers passed away on December 16, 2005 at her home after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. She is survived by her husband Matthew Swanson of Holland; her parents, Dr. Robert Albers and Rose Albers of Holland; her brother Michael and Kathy Albers of Collegeville, PA; her brother, Mark Albers and Kate Brown of Holland; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Howard and Marilyn Swanson of Muskegon; her brother-in-law, Mark Swanson of Minneapolis, Lynne Swanson and Dr. Gary Ralph of Lansing, John and Robin Swanson of Muskegon; her nieces and nephew, Martha Albers and Mitchell Albers of Collegeville, PA; Jillian Albers of Holland; Jesse, Cassie, Grace Swanson of Muskegon and Ben Swanson Ralph of Lansing.
Cremation has taken place with interment of ashes at Restlawn Memorial Gardens in Holland.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday at 11:00am at the Dykstra Life Story Funeral Homes, Mulder Chapel, 188 West 32nd Street, Holland, with Reverend Lynn DeMoss officiating.
Visitation will held from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Please visit Laurel's personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a memory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland of The Alliance For The Great Lakes.
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