Gloria Von der Heide

Gloria Von der Heide of Grand Rapids, MI came to the end of her two year battle with colon cancer on February 12, 2026. She was born in Detroit, Michigan to Harry and Audrey Prokopow. She moved to Grand Rapids in 1975 as an employee of Hudson's Department Store. She left Hudson's to begin a career in investment planning, which became her livelihood until her retirement in 2021, helping others to save for their future and for their children. 

She was an active member at Trinity Lutheran Church of Grand Rapids, serving many roles including as a coordinator for Habitat for Humanity builds and on the church finance committee. She joined West Walker Sportsmans Club, participating in trap leagues and archery, organizing pistol events, and serving on the board. 

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents and an older brother, Gordon. She is survived by a sister, Jessica Cheek (Gregory); a brother, Bruce Prokopow (Veronica); and a son, Karl Von der Heide.

A Memorial Service will be held on February 28, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church of Grand Rapids, MI. 

A commemoration event will be held at West Walker Sportman's Club on March 1, 2026 at 3 pm.