John and Ann Query
John and Ann Query truly embody the spirit of what it means to be part of the Community Foundation’s Bridge Builder Society. They are committed to making a positive difference in our community not only today, but also beyond their lifetimes.
“We truly care about this generation, and we also care about our community needs long after we are gone,” said Ann.
In addition to naming the Community Foundation in their estate plans, John and Ann have each played key roles in the growth and success of the Holland/Zeeland community.
“As we moved into retirement, we realized how important community is, so we remained committed to volunteering with organizations that make this community what it is — and this is a special community as we all know,” said John. Economic development organizations, hospitals and countless nonprofits have benefited from John and Ann’s involvement.
“Getting involved with Good Samaritan Ministries was a big blessing for me. I joined the board the ast year I was working to help me transition into retirement and it was the best decision I have ever made,” said John.
His volunteer service also includes serving as President of both the Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital Foundation and the Zeeland Neighborhood Connections Board, as well as Chair of the Zeeland Cemetery and Parks Commission.
Ann was instrumental in the merger of the Holland and the Zeeland Community Foundations in 1991, and has been committed to CFHZ for more than 25 years as a former board member, a donor, and a community leader. She takes pride in being a founding board member of the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council and of Lakeshore Advantage; both examples of collaboration among multiple units of government and organizations that provide services to a wider community.
“Both John and I encourage people interested in their community to volunteer for committees and boards,” Ann said. “It represents a commitment to the present and future, as well as providing a sense of satisfaction in being active participants in decisions that affect the well-being of others.
The Querys care deeply about our community. This generous couple has also organized their giving through a Donor Advised Fund at the Community Foundation and have made a difference in the lives of local students through their Scholarship Fund. The Holland/ Zeeland community has been truly blessed by John and Ann, and with the help of their deferred gift, their impact will be felt for many years to come.
“We have been blessed to live in and to be an integral part of this community,” said Ann. “Our legacy gift will someday help to ensure a positive quality of life for future generations.”
Originally featured in the Community Foundation’s 2018 Annual Report. While this was written by CFHZ’s Communications Associate Lina Pierson in 2019, we believe that stories of generosity are timeless and always relevant.
