Lois Ruth Dejong

Lois Ruth Dejong, born August 31, 1949, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully in her home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on September 28, 2026.

Lois built a life marked by compassion, devotion, and a deep sense of belonging to the place she loved most. Though she was born in Michigan, New Mexico became the home of her heart. She earned a Masters Degree in Education and went on to devote her teaching career to elementary classes in Zuni Pueblo and San Ildefonso Pueblo. She dearly loved her students, and that love remained at the center of her life’s work. Her care for children, her respect for Native culture, and her admiration for Native arts of all kinds reflected the depth of her spirit and the sincerity with which she embraced the communities around her.

She will be remembered as a woman with a big, generous heart, one that reached naturally toward those in need and toward animals as well. Her warmth, kindness, and openness shaped the way she moved through the world and touched the lives of many.

Lois was preceded in death by her husbands, Bill DeJong and Gene Powers, and by her parents, Tena Gritter and George Gritter.

She is survived by her sister, Carol Visser; her brother Kenneth Gritter and Martha Gritter; her nephew Daniel Visser and Jane Visser; her niece Barbara Vroon and William Vroon; her nephew Steve Visser and Paige Visser; her niece Joan Hasper and Steve Hasper; her niece Kristina Spurgot and Thomsa Spurgot; and her very special niece, Danielle Visser. In their love for her, and in the memories they carry forward, Lois’s presence will continue to be felt with gratitude and affection.

Her life was one of service, tenderness, and genuine connection. She leaves behind the enduring example of a teacher who loved deeply, gave generously, and found her true home by giving her heart to others.