Hundreds honor murdered couple at vigil

KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) - About 200 people gathered Tuesday evening in a Kentwood park to remember a couple shot to death in their home.

David Bouwman, 81, and his 80-year-old wife Vivian were found dead Jan. 5 in their house on Stowevalley Drive SE in Princeton Estates. Police said the two were killed during a home invasion.

Photos: Bouwmans remembered at candlelight vigil

In the midst of unthinkable grief, several of the Bouwmans' family members were at the vigil to thank the community that has supported them.

Many of those who live in Princeton Estates placed candles in front of their homes Tuesday in a show of solidarity, concern and determination.

Those who gathered in the cold said the Bouwmans were the type that wouldn't want a gathering in their name.

"I'm sure they would have been overwhelmed," said Tom Kelly, the Bouwmans' son-in-law. "They were not a public couple. They certainly would have been pleased to see all the people come out and remember them. It certainly was uplifting and encouraging."

But considering the lives that the Bouwmans touched, the vigil seemed to be more of a symptom of their love than their death. Vivian was remembered for her vibrant love of life and family; David for his ability to fix and things and give them for others to enjoy.

They were the quiet type that the masses may not have known about if it weren't for what happened in the early morning hours of Jan. 5.

"Just super nice people. It's just such a tragic thing to have this happen," said friend Nancy Grooters.