Maxine Louise MacLeod

Maxine MacLeod, age 90, of Holland, Michigan, peacefully passed away on Saturday, November 23, 2024. Maxine's journey through life was one of grace, passion, and devotion. Born and raised in West Michigan. she spent most of her life in the state she loved, where she built a family, a career, and a legacy of kindness. After earning her degree from Wheaton College, Maxine married Roger and became a mother to three children, Sue, Kathy, and David. As a teacher, she poured her heart into nurturing young minds-whether in the classroom, where she taught elementary and preschool students, or in her personal life, where she guided her children with patience and love. Maxine's deep passion for learning never waned and at the age of 55, she returned to Western Michigan University to pursue a Master of Arts degree. This commitment to personal growth and education reflected her belief in the importance of never giving up on one's dreams, no matter the stage of life. Her creative spirit found expression in both her art and her garden. Maxine's love for painting was matched only by her love of nature. She spent hours cultivating a beautiful garden of flowers, which often became the subjects of her artwork. Her garden was the talk of Pentwater, with people often stopping to photograph her beautiful work. Whether in a vibrant painting or in full bloom outside her window, her flowers were a symbol of the beauty she saw in the world and shared with those around her. But it was her family that was the true heart of Maxine's life. She treasured every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, finding immense joy in the simple pleasures of life, like sharing a scoop of butter pecan or vanilla ice cream while watching the sunset in Pentwater. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she poured love, creativity, and warmth into every moment spent with them, often welcoming them into her studio to paint together. Maxine's legacy lives on in the beauty she created, the lessons she imparted, and the love she gave so freely. Her life was a testament to the power of love, creativity, and the beauty of a life lived with purpose. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her. Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Roger; daughter, Susan Dergis; and brother-in-law, Ron Goodwin. Maxine is survived by her: Children Kathy (Tom) Del Bene of Holland David (Sandra) MacLeod of Grand Rapids Grandchildren Jim Del Bene Sara Del Bene Tori (Austin) Schaffner Sean MacLeod Siblings Yvonne (Phil) Dressel Paul (Shirley) Nyenhuis In-Laws Bob (Nancy) MacLeod Bill (Sue) MacLeod Margaret Goodwin No public services are planned. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland or The Holland Area Arts Council. Arrangements are by Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, Holland. Condolences may be left online at www.langelandsterenberg.com.

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Maxine Louise MacLeod

April 16, 1934 - November 23, 2024