Joan Bronkema

Bronkema, Joan Louise (Mead) our feisty 84 year old Mother to 7, Grandmother to 20, and Great Grandmother to 24 (and more on the way!) has left this earth to join her husband Tom, son-in-law Wayne Zuidewind and parents John Henry and Margaret Mead, on Thursday, June 25, surrounded by her family and her dog, Sid Vicious. Joan leaves behind her children, Mary and Paul Niles, Bob Bronkema, Sue and Kevin Jenison, Janice Zuidewind and Steve Capek, Patti Morway and Steve Campbell, Tom and Terri Bronkema and Carol and Dave Willet, grand kids and great grandkids, Sisters Pat Beyer, and Kathleen VanHeck (Frank) and many friends, and relatives. Joanie was a hard working woman, starting her career as a Supervisor at Michigan Bell before she ‘retired' to raise her family. When the kids were grown, she re-entered the work force and worked for over 30 years at the corner grocery store, Bobs / Wierda's Hi-Lo Market. "Mrs B" was a staple of Hi-Lo and customers could count on Joanie for great service, a witty joke and a good laugh. She was also known to chase after shoplifters. She never caught up to them but they never came back! Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 am, Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 1630 Godfrey SW. The family will meet relatives and friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Internment Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted to Meals on Wheels. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Gary from Meals on Wheels - Mom always enjoyed your visits! Mom - we will miss your wit and your quick sense of humor. Your love for your family was deep and strong. Your last few years were hard, but your strength and courage never wavered. You are now in the Glory of God, reunited with our Dad. We miss you both but your legacy lives on in all of us. Rest in Peace Mama. Job well done! "May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and rains fall soft on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his Hand." To share a photo, memory and sign the family's online guestbook please visit www.stegengafuneralchapel.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Joan Louise Bronkema please visit our Sympathy Store.