Doreen Gunnink Obituary, Death Cause – Gunnink, Doreen L. Kentwood, MI Doreen Louise Gunnink (Bonnema) departed this life on March 12, 2023, and went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in the heavenly, eternal home that he had prepared for her there.
As she was reverently ushered into glory, she was present in the tranquility and comfort of her own home, surrounded by members of her family. We are overjoyed that she has received divine healing and is no longer in any pain; however, we are also deeply saddened by this enormous loss.
Doreen was well-known and loved for her many roles in life, including those of wife, mother, daughter, friend, aunt, sister, nurse, and mentor. Doreen fought pancreatic cancer in Stage 4 with a ferocity that rivals none other, one that was rock-solid, and she was determined to beat it so that she could spend more time with her family.
She has far exceeded the expectations of her doctors, who have remarked at each subsequent medical appointment in the past few months that she has already defied the odds. She maintained an attitude of hope, faith, and positivity throughout the entire year that passed between the time of her diagnosis and her death, which inspired everyone.
She kept her feet planted firmly on the solid rock that is Christ, and she clung to His Word with unwavering devotion every single moment of her journey. The fact that she was able to live for an entire year after receiving her diagnosis was a gift, a miracle, and a blessing to both her and her family. Despite the fact that she was unable to overcome the illness that took her physical form, her extended life was a blessing.
In addition, because she decided against chemotherapy in favor of a treatment option that would significantly improve the quality of her life, the last year of her life was filled with wonderful and meaningful moments spent with the people she cherished the most: her family and friends. Doreen was a devout follower of Jesus throughout her entire earthly life.
She was known for instilling strong family values, fiercely loving others, and leading a life that was profoundly driven by the gospel. One of Doreen’s most treasured passages in the Bible is 2 Timothy 1:7, which says, “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.”
Doreen’s life is a perfect illustration of this verse. Doreen had a dynamic personality; she was full of joy, excitement, and humor, and she was eager to strike up a conversation with and get to know anyone she could. She is characterized as being extraordinarily affectionate.
