Albert Walter Bouw

As the morning sun shone on the Thornapple River, with his entire family surrounding him, Albert Walter Bouw, aged 74, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2024. 

Al was born in Chatham, Ontario, Canada, on March 30, 1950 to Albert and Henrietta Bouw, newly immigrated from the Netherlands.  Shortly after, he and his family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where Al attended Grand Rapids Christian Schools.  Al went on to graduate from Calvin College and the University of Michigan with an MBA.

Al and his former wife and loving friend, Joyce, had four children.  Matthew (Emily) Bouw, Aaron (Carol) Bouw, Justin (Polly) Bouw, and Trevor Bouw.  Al is also survived by his granddaughter, Sophia; his sister, Susie (Stacy De Howitt) Bouw; and many extended family members and close friends.

Al was preceded in death by his mother, Harriett Bouw, and his father, Albert Bouw. 

Al was an avid reader and a lover of sports, especially the U of M.  He will be remembered for always donning the maize and blue, his knowledge of history and economics, bringing a book with him everywhere he went, and his quick wit. He was a great listener, a relentless support system to his sons, and a wonderful friend.

Per Al’s wishes, the family will forego a funeral, and a private memorial service will take place to honor him.

We would like to thank the staff at Cascade Trails Senior Living, the nursing staff at Blodgett Hospital, and Faith Hospice for their exceptional, compassionate care of Al in his final months and days. 

GO BLUE!