Lena will be missed, but her legacy will live on through the programs and services made possible by her compassion and generosity, which will benefit West Michigan for generations. Lena Meijer died Saturday at the age of 102, the company announced: Lena Meijer, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, spouse and partner of the late retailing entrepreneur Fred Meijer, died January 15, 2022 at the age of 102. Lena was born May 14, 1919 on the family farm near Lakeview, Michigan. We use cookies to personalize & enhance your experience. Our deepest sympathy to Hank, Doug, Mark and their families. 11. WebDoug and Hank Meijer's tribute to their mom. Our farms were next to each other. She is remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother,great-grandmother and partner to Frederik Meijer as he built up the grocery store chain. She was a friend and partner to our parents / grandparents, as she was to us, and a steadfast supporter of her husband, her family and all of West Michigan. Lena Meijer never sought the limelight and rarely spoke in public though she did appear at the 2018 grand opening of Meijers Bridge Street Market on Grand Rapids West Side but she was a true partner to her husband, Frederik Meijer, and left a lasting mark on the community. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Lenas name may be made to the Lena Meijer Childrens Garden at the Frederik Meijer Gardens. Sorry for your loss. If we dont stop worshipping members of the Capitalist Class, like Lena Meijer, not much will change. My sincere condolences, and prayers for Hank, Doug, and the entire Meijer family. Lena Meijer is survived by her three sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family members wish to thank all those who helped with Lenas care in the home, with her transportation and with other assistance. 10 years ago, and were so proud when Meijer moved into the Soo, Escanaba, and Marquette, bringing a great company up here from our old town. Lena moved to Greenville, Michigan in 1940, where she was hired by Hendrik Meijer as a cashier in the original Meijer supermarket. On top of that, most of the items that are sold in Meijer stores travel thousands of miles, thus relying heavily on the burning of fossil fuels, which have contributed significantly to Climate Change. People who have economic and political power will almost always look out for other people who have economic and political power. The organizations she helped over her lifetime paid tribute to include Spectrum Health who issued the following statement. She passed away on Saturday, at the age of 102. Lena Meijer rarely spoke in public, instead letting her more outgoing husband accept the couples honors. Biden announces aggressive new, Newsfeed Now: Biden to launch new plan against COVID-19, Newsfeed Now: UPS driver spreads joy with TikTok, Newsfeed Now: Families of 14 kids with disabilities, Newsfeed Now: Newborn found inside dresser in alley; Man, Newsfeed Now: Federal student loan payments paused, Newsfeed Now: CDC issues new eviction ban through, Newsfeed Now: Senators unveil nearly $1 trillion, Newsfeed Now: Simone Biles withdraws from all-around, Newsfeed Now: CDC says J&J vaccine poses small nerve, Newsfeed Now: Pfizer seeking authorization for 3rd, Bed Bath & Beyond liquidation sale has started, How to watch King Charles royal coronation, Mayor encouraging New Yorkers to put AirTags in cars, Most say media widening political divide: poll, Giant seaweed blooms beaching begins, will worsen, Cat that loves Taylor Swift music up for adoption, Waste of time: Community college transfers hit, BestReviews.com - Top gifts to make everyone happy this spring, Surprise your mom with one of these Mothers Day, Mothers Day inspo: This foot massager has 20,000, Drew Barrymores Walmart collection is perfect for, Best Mothers Day gifts for the budding plant mom, Best Mothers Day Gifts for moms obsessed with books, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Her life epitomized the type of family she was from. The couple moved to Grand Rapids in 1951 and Lena continued to work in the business until the birth in 1952 of the first of three sons. and Mark started the Life ambulance company and would come in the store and chat with me often while I worked nights in the bakery. Thanks for being a kind family. The Meijers She often volunteered to decorate the German Christmas tree at the gardens. To my former next door neighbor, Mark, my deepest sympathy. She and my dad were first cousins,and I remember as a young child we would go to their home in Greenville to celebrate birthdays. Lena and Fred Meijer sit next to a statue of Fred at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Kids can explore and learn through climbing, water play, touching, smelling, digging, and thinking. Lena Meijer was by her husbands side as the Meijer company grew from a single store into a retail giant. They were married in 1946. provided an educational anchor on the east end of Grand Rapids (MLive file photo by Anna Moore Butzner), Lori Niedenfuer Cool / The Grand Rapids Press, Lena and Fred Meijer at the 1997 Frederik Meijer Gardens honor ceremony. for Lena Meijer I pray you will find joy in her passing as she becomes a partner once again with your dad. The couple move to Grand Rapids in 1951 and Lena continued to work in the business until the birth in 1952 of the first of three sons. Grand Rapids, MI, is where Lena Meijerlives today. By using our site, you agree to our use of cookies. Grand Valley and West Michigan are remembering Lena Meijer, who died She was proceeded in death by her husband, who died in November 2011 at the age of 91. Your mom was a wonderful lady and I dearly loved her. It was something he often joked about. The MLive article quote the Meijer family attorney who stated that lena Meijer preferred to remain in the background, and to council members of her family. She had a warm and giving spirit, that was evident from the moment she walked in any room. Lena was a very good example of what we should all emulate. I extend my deepest sympathy to Hank, Doug, Mark and the rest of the Meijer family. into the outstanding university it is today," said President The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. Dick. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. Lena Rader Meijer, longtime member of the Meijer Board of Directors and wife of Fred Meijer, has passed at the age of 102. If you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566. We see the Lena Meijers of the world as being generous, when in fact we should be seeing their philanthropy as a PR scam, a diversion from having to actually look hard at how they made their wealth. universitys expansion over the years, including Grand Valleys Meijer Published by Grand Rapids Press from Jan. 15 to Jan. 18, 2022. She was 102. Mrs. Meijer was the true epitome of a woman, wife and mother. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. Lena Meijer, member of the Meijer Board of Directors and wife of Frederik Meijer, died Saturday at the age of 102. Who's Searching for You, Relatives, Associates, Neighbors & Classmates, See all testimonies from people that know Lena. stations to move into state-of-the-art studios in downtown Grand He called up on a Friday and said, Can you be to work on Monday? And that was April Fools Day, Lena Meijer continued. Lena will be remembered as one of the individuals who helped establish Grand Valley and grow it into the outstanding university it is today," GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella said in the post. Lena is alive and kicking and is currently 47 years old. She was a friend and partner to our parents / grandparents, as she was to us, and a steadfast supporter of her husband, her family and all of West Michigan. Her love of gardens, including her own rose garden at their longtime home on the northeast side of Grand Rapids, helped inspire her and her husbands commitment to create the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Lena also answers to Lena E Meijer, Lena Elizabeth Meijer and Lena The daughter of German immigrants, Lena Meijer was born in 1919 and raised on her family's farm near Lakeview, Michigan,according toRemembering Lena Meijer, awebsite honoring her memory. Stewards of the university,recognizing their lifetime contributions Frederik Meijer Center for Writing and Michigan 1998 - 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. | All Rights Reserved. WebMeijer was a local barber who entered the grocery business during the Great Depression. She always enjoyed the friendship of her neighbors, from the house on Meadowfield Drive NE where they raised their sons, to the apartment at Cook Valley Estates, where they moved in 2004. Courtesy photo. Meijer was then offered a job by Hendrik Meijer at his Meijers Thrift Market in Greenville where she worked as a bookkeeper and cashier. It has been just over a week now that Lena Meijer, the wife of Fred Meijer, passed away. Our hearts go out to the Meijer family. Relations, recalled the impact of their support. They were married in 1946. The gardens, which opened in 1995, feature rare and exotic plants and outdoor paths leading to sculptures by well-known artists. She was 102. Lena Rader Meijer, longtime member of the Meijer Board of Directors and wife of Fred Meijer, has passed at the age of 102. The blessings of 2372 times Lena Meijer (Rader) Birthdate: estimated between 1887 and 1945 : Death: Immediate Family: Daughter of George Rader and Mary M Rader Wife of Frederik Meijer Lena was also passionate about public television. She was the daughter of German immigrants George Rader and Mary Lutterloh Rader. My thoughts and prayers are with you Hank, Doug and Mark and your families. WebLena was the daughter of a farmer near Lakeview, Michigan. Lena Meijer had a fondness forgardens andmaintained a rose garden at the family's home in Grand Rapids. to see complete work history. Lena Meijer, the wife of the late grocery chain co-founder Frederick Meijer, died Saturday. Click here to take a moment and familiarize yourself with our Community Guidelines. (Emily Rose Bennett | MLive.com), Fred Meijer, left, looks on as Lena Meijer, right, cuts one of the ribbons signifying the opening of the new outdoor amphitheater at Frederik Meijer Gardens in 2003. We each had been at different outings , and we were talking about how sweet and interesting she was to talk to. Your parents have left a great legacy and are now re-united in heaven. The two donated land for the Frederik Meijer Gardens andSculpture Park, a cultural destination known for its stunning botanical gardens and art. A private family ceremony is planned. Grandma Lena was the warmest grandmother a grandson could ask for. I miss Fred and Lena so much! My Husband Lee was their Mailman when they lived on Meadowfield. Then, one day, she got an unexpected phone call from Hendrik Meijer, who said some of the workers at his store knew Lena and had suggested he hire her. They were The couple hadthree sons, Hank, Doug and Mark. to see who they are and learn about them, based on information from public records and government sources. One of Lena Meijers biggest legacies may be Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. The gardens, which opened in 1995, feature rare and exotic plants and outdoor paths leading to sculptures by well-known artists. She also excelled at sports and was one of the few girls the boys would allow to play baseball with them. [6] His wife Lena died at Lena worked for the store for ten years. I first met Lena and Fred at the opening of the Frederik Meijer Gardens, where I worked as a horticulturist. Such a sincere and gracious couple, we are so lucky to have had some time with them in our lives. I had to put the slicer back together for this but I did not mind at all. Sign up and receive the latest Grand Valley headlines delivered to your email inbox each morning. I was a cashier that started at the Norton Shores store. Your family was blessed to have her for so many years. She was the daughter of German immigrants George Rader and Mary Lutterloh Rader. In 1940, she moved to Greenville, where she was hired by Hendrik Meijer as a cashier. Acclaimed Orchid Wall. If youre shopping for a new purse, check out these luxurious bags that look quite high-end, but cost less than $100. He called her "the warmestgrandmother a grandson could ask for" and said that his family "will forever cherish the memories and legacy she created with Grandpa Fred.". It was there that she met Fred Meijer, the grocers son. The next day they came in and asked my manager to see me. Enter the Childrens Garden through the three-foot-tall mouse hole entrance and get ready to have all five senses stimulated. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred, in 2011. Kinkel busts of the Meijers at the dedication of the Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center at Spectrum Butterworth in 2004. Jump To. God Bless! For many years she decorated the German Christmas tree as a volunteer at the Gardens. The Meijers had three sons, Doug, Hankand Mark. Despite being among the richest people in the country, the Meijers lived modestly and gave generously to countless organizations and projects in the community, including the renovated Grand Rapids Civic Theatre in 2006. Fred Meijer told News 8 in 2003 that he was initially nervous about dating someone from the store, so it was Lena who made the first move. They were both recognized as part of GVSU's Hall of Fame as "Grand Stewards" of the university, "recognizing their lifetime contributions to the university and the West Michigan community," the school said in a post honoring her. Meijer worked in the business until 1952 when she had her first three sons: Hank, Doug and Mark. (The Grand Rapids Press/Paul L. Newby II), Lena Meijer poses in front of a replica of her childhood home, at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in 2003 (MLive file photo by Dave Raczkowski), A sculpture of Fred and Lena Meijer sits on a bench at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. She must have been a wonderful woman to have raised such a kind and generous family. A private ceremony for the family is planned. Our hearts go out to the Meijer family. Her love of gardens, including her own rose garden at their longtime home on the northeast side of Grand Rapids, helped inspire her and her husband's commitment to create the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Lena Meijer died last week at the age of 102. A private ceremony is planned. Our condolences to the whole family. She graduated from Lakeview High School in 1937 and got a job at a Lakeview bank as a teller and bookkeeper. They came in to get some lunch meat shaved for the dogs? Lenas impact is felt through a wide range of programs and projects Lena and her husband, Frederik (Fred), were passionate 2023 The Detroit News, a Digital First Media Newspaper. Learn more in our Privacy Policy. Lena Meijer, the wife of the late grocery chain co-founder Frederik Meijer, died Saturday. including the Frederik Meijer Opportunity Scholarship and the Frederik Lena and I were best friends growing up in Lakeview. Always there. Yet she also presided over a bustling household, cooking dinner for the family most every evening. Who's Searching for You, Look Your Best to People Searching for You. The comments from the DeVos Family are completely expected, since this is one family within the Grand Rapids Power Structure speaking well of another member of the Grand Rapids Power Structure. On the website Remembering Lena Meijer, the Meijer family said it would like to thank all those who helped with Lenas care in the home, with her transportation and with other assistance.. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family and friends. I had a good time.. Even more, she cherished the company of her family, of her seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, as well as nieces and nephews and cousins. below. Lena was a woman of great kindness, compassion and generosity. They were instrumental in establishing Grand Valleys Health Campus Campus in Holland, built on land they gave to the university. The Childrens Garden is not only entertaining but also educational. GOD Bless you all. She will be greatly missed.. (MLive file photo by Gina Frigo), Lena Meijer watches during the 30th annual dinner of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids at DeVos Place on Monday, June 19, 2017. scholarships benefit first-generation students. To the Meijer family, my prayers and thoughts are with you. Over the phone, sight unseen, pick of the post, her husband interjected. on January 15. If you have won a prize from us we will be mailing it to you or will contact you with specific information needed to redeem your prize. There, as at Meijer, her affection for the dedicated volunteers and coworkers was always evident. This is why Meijer and DeVos, and the other members of the Grand Rapids Power Structure, get their names on buildings, because we as a society do not have sufficient class consciousness. WebLena Meijer, the philanthropic wife of grocery store magnate Fred Meijer, died on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022 at the age of 102. The park combines Frederik Meijers love of sculptures with his wife Lenas love of She was also an enthusiastic partner of her husband as the Meijer retail business grew, attending store openings and team member awards dinners, taking Sunday drives to visit stores and making lifelong friends at food industry conferences. What information about Lena are you looking for? WebBuilt in 1994, the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Mich., is just one example of how an architect can leave a legacy by designing with galvanized steel. This section can be locked, requiring permission to She is survived by sons Hank (Liesel), Doug and Mark (Mary Beth), grandchildren Haley, Peter (Gabriella), Hanna (Alex), Cali, Hardy, Kendall and Mary Grace, and great-grandchildren Dresden, Lena, Olivia and Brooklyn. (The Grand Rapids Press/Paul L. Newby II), Lena Meijer shares a moment with her granddaughter as they await the arrival of the Dutch King and Queen outside of Frederik Meijer Gardens on Tuesday, June 2, 2015. 1 Campus Drive Four years after the Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center opened, the Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion opened at Spectrum, named for two former Meijer employees and funded in part by the Meijers. They were married in 1946. Our mothers burned up the phone lines too with lots to discuss-including the ostrich eggs they both decorated. Consider offering these words of comfort if you're not sure what's appropriate. Aquinas College joins the West Michigan community and beyond in mourning the loss of Lena Meijer. Giving to charity is a meaningful way to honor someone who has died. The wealth from the Meijer family alone could eliminate poverty in West Michigan and provide sufficient funds for housing and health care for all. My deepest sympathy to Hank, Doug, Mark and their families at this sad time. Lena and Fred became involved in the Grand Rapids community through charitable efforts such as the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory and Lena Meijer Childrens Garden at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Her gracious, giving spirit and dedication to her family, our company and our community were beyond measure and appreciated by many. An employee at great no. in a very short time. In the natural world, she developed a special fondness for penguins, amassing a collection of penguin-related items in all shapes and sizes. The Michigan native and member of the Meijer Board of Directors was born in Lakeview in 1919 and graduated from Lakeview Highschool in 1937. I will also ask you to extend my sympathies to the rest of your family. Lena lived generously and her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched.. See She cherished memories of camel rides and hot-air balloon flights, golf tournaments and cycling trips. Grand Rapids, MI, is where Lena Meijer lives today. They made their decisions on the family obviously together but they also made business decisions together, former Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell said. I was fortunate enough to have met Fred and Lena at store 50 in Cascade when I was closing the deli. Lena moved to Greenville, Michigan in 1940, where she was hired by Hendrik Meijer as a cashier in the original Meijer supermarket. Meijer First Generation Honors College Scholarship. with their generous gift for the Cook-DeVos Center for Health The people of West Michigan have access to a wide array of high-quality cardiovascular care because of her and Freds vision and philanthropy. Sorry to hear of Your Moms Death. Lena and her husband, Frederik (Fred), were passionate about (AP Photo/Adam Bird). It was there that she met Fred Meijer, the grocer's son.
Canon Of Proportions Egyptian Art,
Hope Summers Cause Of Death,
Articles I