Harriet Piccard

Harriet Piccard, a cherished and loving mother, passed away peacefully of natural causes on February 12, 2024, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Born on June 8, 1937, the daughter of Gerit “John” and Frances (Roelofs) Veldhuis, Harriet's life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and joyful moments shared with those she held dear.

Harriet's journey began in the heart of Michigan, where she grew up surrounded by the love of her family. A proud graduate of Ravenna High School in 1955, she carried the lessons of her youth throughout her life, weaving them into the fabric of her own family. Before embracing the full-time role of a farmer's wife, Harriet contributed to the world as a telephone operator, connecting people with her kind voice and caring demeanor.

Married to her beloved husband, Henry R. Piccard, Jr., for 59 years, Harriet's life was a testament to enduring love and partnership. Together, they cultivated not just the land, but a family legacy that would flourish for generations. Though she was preceded in death by Henry, her son Charles Edward Piccard, her parents, her sister Geraldine Huizenga, and several in-laws, her spirit of resilience and love remains a guiding light for her family.

Harriet's legacy is carried on by her loving children, Cindy (Mike) Zaagman, Cathy (Mark) Meyer, Robert (Lindy) Piccard, Sandy (Dale) Billingsley, Donna (Bradley) Breternitz, and Kim (Tim) Ellerbrock. Her life was further enriched by the joy of her 15 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren, who will continue to grow in the glow of her memory. Harriet is also survived by her twin brother Harvey (Laura) Veldhuis, brother Ronald (Vicki) Veldhuis, brother-in-law James Piccard, sister-in-law Elaine (Wally) VanHouten, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were all touched by her kindness and grace.

Harriet's interests painted a picture of a woman who found beauty and excitement in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid gardener in her younger years, nurturing her plants with the same care she gave to her family. Her love for playing card games, enjoying bingo, and the occasional visit to the casino were sources of great joy and laughter. She enjoyed wintering in Palmetto, Florida and playing Shuffleboard.  Above all, Harriet's heart was most full when she was surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whose lives she enriched with her unwavering support and unconditional love.

Those who knew Harriet will remember her for her gentle spirit, her generous heart, and her ability to make every person she met feel like family. Her home was a haven of warmth and hospitality, where the door was always open, and the coffee pot was always on. She was a long time member of Trinity Congregational Church. Harriet's life was a reflection of her values: family, faith, and the joy of being together.

In the quiet moments, we will find Harriet in the blooming of a flower, the shuffle of a deck of cards, and the laughter of children. Her presence will be felt in every family gathering, every shared meal, and every tender moment between loved ones. Harriet Piccard's life was a gift to us all, and her memory will be treasured forever.  Memorial contributions in memory of Harriet can be made to Trinity Congregational Church or the Marne American Legion.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM, and again from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Throop Funeral Home, 214 Church St, Coopersville, MI 49404.  A funeral service will be held at Trinity Congregational Church, 2725 4 Mile Rd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544 on Thursday, February 15, 2024 at 11:00 AM with a one-hour visitation prior at 10:00 AM.  A luncheon will follow.  Interment at Washington Park Memorial Gardens.  Services provided by Throop Funeral Home.  To leave an online condolence visit, https://www.throopfh.com.

Throop Funeral Home, Coopersville, MI. Ph. 616-837-8161