Kenneth Folkertsma

Kenneth Folkertsma, age 84, of Walker, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 19, 2024. His career was spent in the Grand Rapids Public School system and he retired as principal at Union High School. Ken loved fixing cars, hunting, fishing, and football.  His love for football started in his youth and went on to be awarded all-state honors in high school and received scholarships to two Big Ten programs. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 62 years, LuRita; his children, Terri Roelofs, Elizabeth and David Boerema, “daughters”, Heidi Shookman, Brenda Voorhees; grandchildren and great grandchildren, Tricia and Luke McLaurin (Leila, Thad), Chris and Angela Roelofs (Cameron, Hope), Andrea Roelofs and Jesse Hernandez, Justin Roelofs (Jaeda, Brooks), Emelia Boerema, Elise Boerema; sister, Barbra Mannino; brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Jerry and Donna Gort, Ron and Violet Gort, Ralph Katerberg, Faith and Mel Heidsma; several nieces and nephews.  A private graveside service will take place at River Bend Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Sunday, September 22, 2024 from 2 to 5 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation.