We are sad to announce the passing of Estelle Vita (Van Leeuwen) Mathias, age 86.
Born Nov. 12, 1935, Estelle was raised in Saugatuck and lived there for 40 years before moving to Michigan City, Ind. She subsequently moved to Naples, Fla. before moving into an assisted living facility in Fennville.
As a teenager, Estelle was an enthusiastic cheerleader at Saugatuck High School. She still remembered some of her favorite cheers in her final days.
While living in Michigan City, she volunteered at the local soup kitchen and was active at Michiana Shores Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a member of the Ladies Auxiliary at VFW Post 2536. In addition, she enjoyed doing crafts and taking long walks on the beach.
Estelle was preceded in death by her husband, John Mathias, and stepson, Jay Mathias. She is survived by her sister, Kay (Donald) Forster of Allegan, her children, Cinde Troutman of Michigan City, Ind.; Ralph (Jody) Troutman, Ken (Sally) Troutman of Saugatuck; Linda (Jim) Kalkman of Holland; and stepchildren Bruce (Cindy) Mathias of Chesterton, Ind., Martha Mathias of Valparaiso, Ind., Marie Mathias of Ft Lauderdale, Fla.; along with 18 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren.
A private memorial is being held in Saugatuck for close family and friends.
Aunt Estelle was a wonderful person whose laugh was beautiful And contagious! She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Sending much love and condolences to my cousins, Cinde, Ralph, Ken, Linda, and their families.❤️ – Marcia (Troutman) Thompson