Nelva Luchies

Nelva Jean Luchies, 82, died a peaceful, natural death at her home, in Mattawan, Michigan, on January 17, 2021. She was born May 7, 1938 in Holland, Michigan, the eldest daughter of Harold and Gladys (Mulder) Ter Haar. Nelva was a Zeeland High School “Chick” and graduated in 1956. After graduation, she began a proud family legacy by obtaining Bachelor and Masters’ degrees in education from Western Michigan University. Go Broncos! Nelva dedicated her life to service and children. She was an elementary education teacher, Executive Director of the Christian television program “Under the Rainbow”, a certified Bethel Bible Instructor, director of Vacation Bible School for Faith Reformed Church, a Sunday School teacher, proud and dedicated owner and operator of her own daycare in addition to being a devoted mother of five children and 16 grandchildren. Nelva was a long time, active Member of Calvary Reformed Church where she dedicated her time and talents in the service of her beloved Lord and Savior. She helped to keep children safe and out of the foster care system, sewed dresses, toys and bags for children in need and volunteered at Jody’s Clothes Closet and the Mattawan Food Pantry. Nelva was a loving and devoted Mother and grandmother who passed on her strong work ethic, faith and fierce independence and love for learning to all of those who were blessed enough to know her. Nelva was proceeded in death by her parents, Harold and Gladys (Mulder) Ter Haar; her brother-in-law, Ralf Gutierrez; and her grandson, Zachary Antisdale. She is survived by her five children, Eric (Melanie) Antisdale, Jennifer Antisdale, Elizabeth (John) Ammond, Terri Antisdale, Jay (Lisa) Luchies; 16 grand-children, Jarrid, Stone, Cody, Nick, Samantha, Cody Antisdale, Cullam, Lainie, Gabbie, Chloe, Sophia, Isabella, Karsen, Lauren and Gavin; and her four siblings, Gary (Carol) Ter Harr, Sharon Gutierrez, Cliff (Cindy) Ter Haar, and Jack (Polly) Ter Haar; as well as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. The family will be holding a private service on Friday, January 22, 2020 at Calvary Reformed Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Calvary Reformed Church, 7829 S. 5th Street, Mattawan MI 49071 or online at: https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=tYgT1GfNxRUldiimjHMvOaLSd0B6NPzAkJ3FDqaehHvbto7rg8irIX1_lb7hFlma2evTpo0mld6BrVzd2nG0p-z8JiSm6aO3_nsjkwwjKDo=&ver=3. A celebration of Nelva’s life will be held in the near future. While at Nelva's webpage at www.avinkcremation.com please take time to sign her guestbook by lighting a candle and/or sharing a memory with her family. The family is being assisted by Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 129 S. Grand, Schoolcraft, MI 49087 (269) 679-5622.