Ben Allen Snoeyink, age 74, is now at home with his Lord and Savior after struggling with Parkinson’s disease for 14 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Anna (Idema) Snoeyink; infant brother, Wesley; and a brother-in-law, Greg Gabrielse. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Sharon (Gabrielse) Snoeyink, to whom he was married for 51 years.  Together they have 4 daughters, Kristin and David Rozema (Caleb, Soren and Zoe), Jennifer and Doug Bell (Allie and Alexis), Rebecca and Mike Impellizzeri (Jordan and Sophia), Sarah and Matt Rottman (Corynn, Annaliese, Madelynn, Katelynn and Benjamin). He is survived by 4 sisters and 3 brothers, Arlene and Julius Kuiper, Lois and Vic Maier, Roger and Edna Snoeyink, Char and Orin Gelderloos, Vern and Jeannie Snoeyink, Jerry and Carol Snoeyink, Nancy and Jim McGlothlin. Also surviving are his sisters and brothers-in-law, Phyllis and Jim Kramer, Tim and Kris Gabrielse, Cheri Gabrielse; and many nieces and nephews. Ben was a graduate of Calvin College where he earned his degree in education. He taught Math at Christians schools in South Holland, IL and Sheboygan, WI.  After 20 years of teaching, he worked as a baking machinery sales representative and earned his Six Sigma black belt.  Ben will be remembered for his keen sense of humor, his kind and gentle spirit and a deep love for his wife, children and grandchildren, as well as his love of camping and fishing, birdwatching, woodworking and enjoyment of University of Michigan sporting events.  Ben was supportive of all the interests of his family and often mentioned that the sounds of his family were music to his ears.  He loved to volunteer his time at Kids Hope and Home Repair Services and desired volunteer full time for disaster relief in his retirement.  The family wants to thank Faith Hospice and the loving and caring community of Covenant Living where he resided for the last 8 months of his life. A service to celebrate Ben’s life will be held 11 am Friday, August 16 at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church, 107 LaGrave Ave. SE, Grand Rapids.  Interment Blain Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday 5-8 pm at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood, and from 10 to 10:45 am Friday at church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to VanAndel Institute for Parkinson’s Research, Kids Hope or to Home Repair Services.

Leave Your Tribute Message

August 15, 2019 3:43am
With deepest sympathy. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.

- Your Friends at Baker Perkins, Inc.

August 13, 2019 7:14am
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless you all.

- Mike and Judy Thun

August 12, 2019 4:48pm
Sharon and family, Our sincere condolences in the passing of your beloved husband and father. I have wonderful memories working with Ben at Sheboygan County Christian High. May God give you the peace and grace as you celebrate his life.

- Ivan and Bonnie Van Duyn

August 12, 2019 4:33pm
Dear Sharon & family, With heavy hearts we learned of Ben's home going. Ray recalled the winter Ben & he trained together with the intent of running a marathon in Madison in the spring. That goal was not accomplished but good memories were. May the Lord's presence and his promises comfort you.

- Ray & Marlene Wondergem

August 12, 2019 2:00pm
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your children, Sharon. We have so many beautiful memories of Ben as a teacher at Christian High as well as a wonderful friend.We have the People to People German chaperone staying with us, this week, reminding us of Becky and Ken's involvement in the exchange!

- Curt and Kris Hancock

August 12, 2019 7:35am
Knowing Kristin opens a window into the heart of this lovely man. Clearly his life's journey has been one blessed with deep and abiding love.

- Laura Wilson

August 11, 2019 3:43am
Very sorry to hear of Ben's passing. Loved working with him at GABE'S. Gary Gabrielse (John L.s kid) Our Prayers are with you.

- GARY J GABRIELSE

August 11, 2019 3:04am
Sarah and Family, I am sorry for your loss. I remember your dad being so supportive. Peace to all of you.

- Denice Nugent

August 10, 2019 1:25pm
Ben was a competitor all his life, in the hurdles, in sales and especially later in life against the ravages of Parkinson's. He never lost the ability to tell a funny story or laugh at one told to him. He is remembered as a God loving inspiration in all aspects of his life.

- Ron and Joyce Lubbers




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Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.

 

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