Edith Plantinga

Edith Arlene Plantinga (nee Gross), peacefully entered her Eternal Home on February 6, 2025 in the presence and care of her loving family. She was preceded in death by her beloved and devoted husband of 70 years, Warren. She was loved by her children Gary Plantinga, Nancy Plantinga, Jeff Plantinga (Diane) [both deceased], Jerry Plantinga (Becky), Beverly Swanson (Frank), Laurie Fischer, and Jennifer Carli (Thomas). Edie was Granny to Kristen Owensby (William), Michael Plantinga (Corinne), Brittney Gentry, Courtney Ray (Shaun), Ashley Swanson, Matt Swanson, Emily Swanson (Chad), Natalie Swanson (Brad), Mallory Fischer (Travis), Madelynn Ray (Ian), Alex Carli (Sarah), Jason Carli (Jessica), Sarah Carli (Anthony). Great Granny/GiGi to Jayden, Ashlynn, Mecca, and Abby Owensby, Jordan, Jenna, and Harper Plantinga, Bruce, Brock, Blake, and Becca Gentry, Austin and Emma Swanson, Christopher Carli, and Leighlynn Bass.

Edie had time as a board member for the McKinley Junior High Band program. She was a member of TOPS. Her time in the South Holland Garden Club and Mary Kay gave her many lasting friendships. She had her special “Club Girls” where they had many outings and hours of laughter. Her dearest friend Barb Manes was more than a neighbor, but like a sister to her, and much cherished friend to her family. Edie worked for the Gilley Law firm for many years, and it was something that gave her such joy and many happy memories, love, and a closeness to the Gilleys. In raising her large family there was always food, togetherness, and love. All were welcomed at their table and she made sure no one left hungry; this trait lives on in her children and grandchildren. She had a love for horses, classic Country Western music, and the series Heartland.

Edie was preceded in death by her parents, Harold Gross and Mildred Boyer, her brother Kenneth, and sister, Joyce, in addition to Warren’s siblings, Clifford (Gertrude) Plantinga, Dorathy (Charles) VanderVeen, Marcella (James) Cain, and Esther Hooks. The family would like to express their gratitude and love to the extraordinary health care professionals who have cared for her for the past eighteen months from Angels Grace Hospice; Justin, Kim, and Madison. They have treated her with such compassion, respect, and love. The family also gives thanks to her loving caregivers, Ramune and Danuta from Dalia’s Care, and to Jennifer and Tom Carli for caring for her in their home for the last few months. Edie was blessed beyond measure.

Visitation is at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Avenue (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem), Orland Park, IL 60462 on Monday, February 17, 2025 from 3:00 to 8:00PM. Funeral Service on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at 10:00AM. Interment is at Chapel Hill Gardens South Cemetery, Oak Lawn, IL.

Memorials in Edie’s name can be directed to Angels Grace Hospice and Palliative Care
Click here for online donation

Below is a photo tribute celebrating Edie's life.


You may express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com (708)532-5400