Bruce John Frayman

June 30, 1947 ~
August 4, 2021

Bruce Frayman , age 74, of Jenison, was called to his heavenly home on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 as a result of complications of Parkinson’s Disease. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Veronica (Vera) Frayman; brother, Jack Frayman; and a still born daughter. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Deborah Frayman; children, Charles (Cynthia) Frayman, Daniel (Rose) Frayman; grandchildren, Charlie, Ben, and Carolyn; several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Bruce was a warm, loving, caring husband, father and grandfather. After graduating from Purdue University and obtaining a Masters Degree and PHD from Notre Dame, he began his teaching career as a Psychology Professor at Aquinas College in 1976. Bruce was interested in everything and loved collecting model trains, cars and airplanes. He enjoyed woodworking and tinkering with bikes. He also enjoyed the cottage at Great Bear Lake and working on improving the interior and exterior of the cottage. Bruce was a faithful servant of the Lord. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, August 9, 2021, at 11 a.m. at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 2700 Baldwin St., Jenison. Relatives and friends may meet the family Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. and one hour prior to Mass on Monday. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends memorial contributions to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

Leave Your Tribute Message

June 25, 2024

Dr. Frayman - er, Bruce since I graduated, I suppose - was my professor at Aquinas College. He was a soft-spoken gentleman who could crack a fantastic joke. Even though we were both research-oriented individuals, we could easily talk about the paranormal together. He had some really cool stories, and there was never a dull moment in his classes! I'm now working on my PsyD and often recall and use what Bruce taught me. My sincerest condolences to all of his loved ones. I hope his wife and children know how lovingly he spoke of his family to his students. We were all so lucky to have him in our lives.

- Jen Chichester

August 23, 2021

While working full time at Aquinas for many years, Bruce and I became good friends. I also took several of his classes. He was an excellent teacher, and his classes were always interesting and informative. My prayers go out to Deb, Charlie, and Dan. He will be missed. Sandy Becker

- Sandy Becker

August 08, 2021

Bruce was my colleague at Aquinas. He was dear, caring, joyful and very friendly. He was always interested in how I was and how our department was doing. I did not know of his ilness, since I retired from teaching 10 years ago, so I was surprised to hear of his death. My prayers and sympany go out to Deb, Charlie and Dan. St. Thomas Aquinas tells us that it will be given to the dead to know the needs of the living. Bruce will always be caring for you. Bless you. Sister Alice

- Alice Wittenbach

August 08, 2021

Bruce was my colleague and friend at Aquinas for many years. I first met him in 1990 when I interviewed for the job, after which he took me to dinner ... in a blizzard! An auspicious start. He was always there, always contributing to making our department work, and always supportive of our students. I was honored to have spent the bulk of my career as part of his team. Thank you, Deb, Charlie, and Dan, for sharing him with us!

- Lorraine Straw

August 05, 2021

What can I say about Bruce, after knowing him for 45 years as my wife's cousin-in-law? How about this: Several decades ago, I started telling my wife that Bruce was probably the best friend I'd ever had. I'll miss you, miss you, miss you, Bruce. --your friend, Mark

- Mark Lewison