Rachel Lynn Tatarchuk, age 46, of Grand Haven, Michigan, passed away on September 20, 2026. Born December 15, 1979, in Holland, Rachel was the daughter of Rita Falk and Nick Tatarchuk and grew up in the Holland area as the middle of three children.
From an early age, her life reflected steady energy and purpose. She was active in track, shot put, and swimming, and was always surrounded by the music she loved. She played the violin as a child and was also known for having a beautiful voice. During summers and Tulip Time, she took part in Dutch clog dancing traditions that brought joy to many. Through the years, family trips created lasting memories, along with her personal adventure to Brazil.
In young adulthood, Rachel worked at several doctors’ offices, where encouragement from those around her helped her take a decisive step forward. She returned to school, earned her GED, and went on to Muskegon Community College, where she obtained her RN license in 2012. It was an achievement she was deeply proud of, and one that all of us who loved her were incredibly proud to see her accomplish.
Her determination and work ethic became a living example to her children that perseverance matters and that effort, faithfully given, bears fruit. After graduation, she served in several elderly care centers, drawn to the work by a sincere concern for others and a devotion to the dignity of older adults. She ultimately became Director of Nursing at Laurels of Hudsonville, a role that reflected both her tireless commitment and her kind-hearted way of leading.
Rachel was the mother of two children, Anthony and Aalihya, who meant everything to her. From the moment they were born, she was devoted to them with a fierce steadiness, working long hours, often more than necessary, to ensure they were cared for and to show them what dedication looks like in everyday life. To many, she was a support system and a safe place: compassionate, generous in spirit, and quietly dependable.
As she grew, she still found time for the things that mattered, like long drives, beach days, afternoons together, and sleepovers with her grandson Gavin.
Some of her favorite trips with her children were to Disney World and to the family cabin in Wisconsin.
She carried her warmth into the ordinary moments of life. Rachel loved music, almost every genre, and for years enjoyed expressing her creativity through crafting and art. Often finding joy in creating decorations and handmade pieces for her home and family, she found peace in the little things, like being outside, spending time with her cats, or even watering a houseplant. Her faith was important to her, and she often helped guide others toward Christ with a gentle sincerity—never forceful, always respectful, and rooted in genuine care.
Rachel is survived by her children, Anthony (Leslie) Tatarchuk and Aalihya Harmon (fiancé Johnny Malnar); her grandson, Gavin Tatarchuk, son of Anthony; her parents, Rita Falk, mother; Steve Falk, stepfather; Nick Tatarchuk, father; and Ginny Tatarchuk, stepmother; her sister, Rebecca (Chad) Skiba; her brother, Nick (Jaime) Tatarchuk; stepsisters, Gina (Tim) Broekhuis and Kristine (Javier) Sanchez; stepbrother, David (Cheryl) Boeve; nieces, Jennah Skiba, Kensington Skiba, Mya Broekhuis, and Allie; and nephews, Javier Sanchez, Diego Sanchez, Eddie Boeve, Owen Boeve, Porter, and Carter.
Rachel was preceded in death by her nephew, Gavin Broekhuis; her friends, Julie Hassevoort and Amy Bridges; and her grandparents.
Visitation will be held at City Hill Church, 11 E 32nd St, Holland, MI 49423, on September 24, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at City Hill Church on September 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
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