Arloa Ruth Wirbel

Arloa Ruth Wirbel, age 95, of Holland, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. She passed away peacefully with family by her side. Arloa was born Dec. 23, 1930, in Holland, MI, to Clarence and Aggie Raak. On October 22, 1955, she was united in marriage to Robert Wirbel, her beloved husband of 59 years, who preceded her in death. Arloa is survived by her sister Pearl Scott of Byron Center, Gregory Wirbel of Kalamazoo, Gina (Paul) Shreve of Grand Rapids; two grandchildren, Stephanie Shreve (Tom Knoppe) and David Shreve; and two great-grandchildren, Natalie and A.E. Knoppe, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Arloa began her career in nursing upon graduation from Butterworth Hospital nursing training, followed by work at the Upjohn (now Heritage) Nursing Home in Portage, Michigan. Arloa subsequently completed her B.S.N. In Nursing from Western Michigan University in ~1980. Arloa retired from the Bronson Clinical Investigation Unit on February 1st, 1987. She and Bob spent winters in Naples, Florida, and enjoyed summers boating and fishing on Lake Macatawa.

Arloa was an avid volunteer in her community at Evergreen Commons and an active participant in the congregation at First Presbyterian Church in Holland, MI. Arloa’s passions in the later decades of her rich and full life included activities with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as book clubs and Bible Study groups at both Appledorn Village, where she resided, and the First Presbyterian Church. Arloa pursued her passion for Mah Jongg with friendship groups at both Evergreen Commons and Appledorn. The family deeply appreciates Arloa’s congregation, friends, and colleagues who so enriched her life.

Arloa’s Memorial Service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Holland, MI, at 1 pm on Friday, June 5th. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund at 659 State St., Holland, Michigan, 49423. Please share a memory or sign the guest book at: www.amsfuneralhomes.com.