Irene Boelema, age 104, of Grand Rapids, was called to be with her Lord and Saviour, Jesus, on Thursday, June 25, 2020.  Irene’s mother passed away when she was only five years old and she was raised by her grandparents.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph, of 39 years, two sisters, and two brothers.  She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Betty Jo (Duane) Overbeek; grandchildren, Shellie (Doug) Martinie, Scott Overbeek, and Steve (Holli) Overbeek; great-grandchildren, Marissa (fiance Cody Knott) Martinie, Matt (Morgan) Martinie, Drew Martinie, Sara and Sarena Overbeek, Kate and Travis Overbeek.  Irene was a loving, caring wife, mother, and grandmother.  She lived for 24 years at The Holland Home and was loved and respected by the staff.  She also worked as a cook for 17 years for Grand Rapids Public Schools and enjoyed visiting with the students.  Irene enjoyed playing bingo, the card game “Golf,” knitting, and doing jigsaw puzzles.  She was a faithful and active member of East Leonard Christian Reformed Church for over 60 years.   The family would like to thank the staff of Faith Hospice and Holland Home for the care and love provided to Irene.  Funeral services will be held 11 am Tuesday, June 30, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Drive SW, with Rev. Gerry Heyboer officiating.  Burial at Fairplains Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday from 10-11 am at the funeral home prior to the service.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to East Leonard Christian Reformed Church Education Fund, Faith Hospice, or the Holland Home Resident Assistance Fund.

Leave Your Tribute Message

July 12, 2020 2:14pm
Betty Jo Your mom was a very dear lady. I so enjoyed getting to know her and you while she lived at Fulton Manor. She was a wise, caring, strong person I am happy to have known. May God's presence meet you just where you need him during this adjustment period. You had her for so long, but parting is still so painful. Sincerely, Mary Scramlin (Former Volunteer Coordinator Fulton Manor)

- Mary Scramlin

June 29, 2020 7:03pm
May God bless you and your family during your time of sorrow. May His grace bring you many pleasant memories.

- Val Norton

June 28, 2020 8:37am
Steve and Holli and Family, Your Grandma lived a beautiful long life. She blessed all of you with her love and kindness. May you have pleasant memories of her. Larry and Carol May

- Larry and Carol May

June 28, 2020 5:14am
Offering sympathies upon the earthly loss of your dear Mom and grandmother and great grandmother. What a Legacy she left. May your family memories sustain you. And God’s arm’s wrap around you all. Irene was a dear lady that many were happy to know at Fulton. Sincerely, Beth Noteboom ( Fulton Manor nurse)

- Beth Noteboom

June 25, 2020 2:33pm
So sorry Betty jo. A lot of good times with our families

- Bob tanja




Order flowers for Irene's service.

Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement

White Wonder

Thinking of You Basket

Tender Touch

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Stargazer Easel Spray

Sincere Sympathy Garden

Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)

Remembrance Easel Spray

Natures Glory

Loving Embrace

Gerbera Greetings

Colorful Memories Wreath

Classic Sympathy

Blooming Duo

Bells of Beauty

Beautiful Memories

Beautiful Blessings Wreath

Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.

 

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