Emily Stammis

Emily Marie Stammis, 25, of Coopersville, went to dance with Jesus on Oct. 29. 2017. She is joined in Heaven by her grandparents, Marvin Pifer Sr., Egbert and Pietje Stammis, and Russ and Irene Farling, as well as her grandparents of the heart, Lou and Marj Harris. Born on Oct. 19, 1992, Emily attended the Ottawa Area Center for 22 years, where she enjoyed spending time with her classmates, therapists and teachers, going on field trips and swimming with her mother. She loved listening to music, especially when combined with blinking lights. Although she had a variety of complex medical conditions, including cerebral palsy, epilepsy, asthma and Angelman syndrome, that left her unable to speak and limited in her mobility, she clearly communicated her joy and love of life through her twinkling eyes and all-encompassing smile. Eager to begin each day, she would flash her broad smile when she was brought downstairs in the morning. A “daddy’s girl,” Emily found both physical and emotional comfort from her father’s special way of holding her in the air and cuddling on his shoulder, while her sister’s talent for making her burst into fits of laughter filled her with happiness. Emily’s expressive face, along with what her family affectionately dubbed “the stink-eye,” left little doubt when she was displeased. During her life, Emily endured numerous surgeries and medical procedures with a mental toughness that far outstripped her slight build. She was baptized and attended Coopersville United Methodist Church all her life. The last sound she heard was her family’s laughter. Emily will be lovingly remembered by her parents, Pieter and Pam Stammis, her sister, Rebecca (Brad) Brower, her nieces, Scarlett Mae Brower and Bridget Ann Brower, her grandmother, Gloria Dazey, her aunts, Chrissie (Chuck) Wilson and Gerry Stammis, her uncle, Marvin (Bonnie) Pifer Jr., and her cousins, Jeff Wilson, Lori Pifer and Jacob Pifer. The family benefited from Hospice services. Visitation will be from Noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, at the Coopersville United Methodist Church, 105 68th Ave., Coopersville, MI, with the service immediately following, officiated by Pastor Cori Cypret. Memorial contributions may be made to Coopersville United Methodist Church or the Ottawa Area Center Student Gift Fund, 10160 96th Ave, Allendale, MI 49401. Arrangements are under the direction of Throop Funeral Home, Coopersville, (616) 837-8161.