Obituary: Eileen Griffis, 89, of Pentwater
Eileen Ruth Griffis, 89, of Pentwater, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at her home. She was born January 4, 1934, in Iowa, the daughter of Nick and Wilhelmina (Ruisch) Spykerman. On June 23, 1951, Eileen married Roy D. Griffis, in Holland; they were married for 63 years.
Eileen was a very talented pianist. She began playing the piano in the third grade for her school, and continued throughout her life. Eileen taught piano lessons for many years, including to all of her children. Besides piano, Eileen was also a prolific reader. Eileen was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend; she will be greatly missed by her friends and family.
Eileen lived and walked with God through His son, Jesus Christ. She devoted many years of service to First Baptist Church of Pentwater, ministering through music for 71 years on piano and organ. She also taught bible studies at church, and was a teaching leader in BSF.
Eileen is survived by: her children, Jared (Pamela) Griffis, Gregory (Kristi) Griffis, Amanda (Keith) Jones, and Andrew (Fritzi) Griffis; 13 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; sisters, Evelyn Nyenhuis and Elsie (Gordon) Kossen; and son-in-law, Thomas Gale.
Eileen was preceded in death by: her husband, Roy D. Griffis, on May 3, 2015; her daughters, Beth Griffis in 1979, and Gloria Gale in 2015; and brothers, John Spykerman and Wilbur Spykerman.
Memorial services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 30, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Pentwater, 101 South Rush Street, Pentwater, with Pastor Mark Lillie officiating, and a luncheon to follow. The family will receive friends, Friday, December 29, 2023, from 6 to 8 p.m., at First Baptist Church of Pentwater. Interment will be in Pentwater Township Cemetery in the spring.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.