Dorothy Mae Van Ryswyk

Dorothy Mae (Motry) Van Ryswyk, age 82, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, passed away peacefully in her home on August 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Dorothy lived a life defined by hard work, unwavering faith, selflessness, and love. A devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, she spent her life caring for others and putting their needs before her own. Her generous spirit, compassionate heart, and willingness to help anyone in need made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A longtime member of the Coloma American Legion Auxiliary, Dorothy faithfully served as chaplain and was dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. She was also an active volunteer at St. Bernard's Parish and generously gave her time to Lake Michigan Catholic Schools, where her commitment to the community reflected her deep faith and servant's heart.

While Dorothy was known for her kindness and generosity, she was equally loved for her fun-loving personality. She had a quick wit, a ready comeback, and a wonderful sense of humor. Family and friends could always count on her for a clever remark, a funny story, or a joke at just the right moment. Her laughter and ability to bring joy to those around her will be deeply missed.

Dorothy is survived by her children: Chan Marzke (Craig), Dawn Utendorf (Tom), Julie Pender (Cary), and Billy Van Ryswyk (Christi). She was a proud and loving grandmother to Sarah Marzke, Samantha McCarthy (Denny), Matt Marzke, Emily Utendorf, Claire Utendorf, Grace Utendorf, Tommy Utendorf, Jack Pender, Jon Pender, Jordan Pender, Erin Abbe, and Christopher Abbe.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Van Ryswyk; her parents, George and Charlotte Motry; her brothers, Kenny Walker, Chuck Motry, and Donnie Walker; and her sister, Carol Higginbottom.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at St. Bernard's Parish, 555 E. Delaware Avenue, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49022. A Catholic Mass celebrating Dorothy's life will immediately follow. Burial will be in Coloma Cemetery. Those wishing to leave an online remembrance may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.

In honor of Dorothy and her vibrant spirit, the family kindly invites those attending to wear a touch of red, her favorite color. Whether it's a tie, scarf, shirt, flower, or accessory, this small gesture would have brought a smile to her face and serves as a celebration of the joy she brought to others.

Though her family grieves her loss, they find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind. Dorothy's legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the family she cherished, and the example she set through a lifetime of love, faith, service, and laughter.

She will be forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.

"Those we love can never be more than a thought away, for as long as there's a memory, they live in our hearts to stay."