Feb 8, 2021 4:27 PM
Jodi Sue Syens, age 67, passed away peacefully in her home on February 5, 2021 after a valiant battle with cancer. Jodi was born on July 20, 1953 in Holland, Michigan to Norman (Bunko) and Shirley Japinga. Keeping in line with the family passion for Hope College, Jodi earned her B.A. in Political Science from Hope in 1975. Jodi’s love story with Marv also began during her time at Hope. It was love at first sight and the two were married on August 10, 1974. Jodi was passionate about the City of Holland and dedicated her career to serving its residents. She began working in the Treasurer’s Office on a work-study assignment. She went on to hold a variety of roles with the City, including Assistant City Manager and Director of Transportation and Parks and Recreation. She was a familiar staple to many Hollanders during Wednesday night City Council meetings and faithfully served as a board member for a variety of local nonprofits, including the Holland Museum and T