Edward Takens

Edward Joseph Takens, age 64, of Jenison, went to his heavenly home on Friday, July 28, 2023. Ed graduated from Jenison High School where he was a talented athlete in basketball and baseball. He worked for D&W Food Centers as a General Merchandise Manager for 20 years. He also worked at Grantex as a linen delivery driver for 23 years and in retirement worked part time as a bus driver for Jenison Public Schools. Ed raised his three children with his former wife of 37 years, Laurie Takens. He was a proud “Pops” to his six grandchildren and loved spending time with them and cherishing them. In Ed’s earlier years, after high school, he played travel softball for several years and hit many over-the-fence home runs. Riding his motorcycle along the lakeshore was one of his favorite pastimes. Ed also spent a lot of time polishing or tinkering with his cars or watching sports including U of M football. He will be remembered for his strength and positive outlook through numerous battles with his health over the years. Ed will be greatly missed for his outgoing personality, ability to make friends with anyone, and his love for his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Lois Takens; nephew, Johnny McSorley; and many aunts and uncles. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Josh (Alicia) Takens, Alison (Austin) Westhuis, Whitney (Joe) Ritsema; grandchildren, Ayla Braun, Kolsyn Stacy, Porter and Malia Westhuis, Brynley and Grady Ritsema; sister, Joy (Randy) McSorley; and niece, Christina McSorley. Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 4, 2023, at 11 a.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor Bob Bloom officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday, August 3, from 5-8 p.m. and Friday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Right to Life of Michigan.