Nelson “Ted” Talsma

October 27, 1935 ~
September 24, 2021

Nelson L. “Ted” Talsma, age 85, of Jenison, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, September 24, 2021. He was preceded in death by his best friend and wife of 58 years, Marilyn (Norden); his oldest grandson, Brian Genzink; his parents, Martin and Norah, and all four of his siblings. Music was a significant part of Ted’s life, whether he was singing or enjoying the music of others. He used his gifts in service to others as an elder and deacon in his church, and as a volunteer at LOVE, Inc., organizing the men’s clothing area there. He was a gentleman through and through. He spent his career in the clothing business and developed lifelong relationships with coworkers and customers along the way. He was warm and welcoming to everyone, loved, and treasured by his family and friends. He is survived by his children, Laurie and Michael Genzink of Wyckoff, NJ, Jane and David Mulder of Jenison, Sarah and Gary Robinett of Owings Mills, MD; grandchildren, Lisa Genzink, Scott Genzink, Kathy and David Scrace, Jon Mulder, and Andy Mulder; beloved great-grandson, Walter Scrace; honorary grandson, Luke VanWienen; sister-in-law, Marcia Talsma; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Wes and Mary Norden; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. The family wishes to thank all of Dad’s medical professionals in Grand Rapids, with special thanks to Jamie and Brooke with Tandem 365 for their exceptional support. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 2, 2021, at 11 am at Ridgewood Christian Reformed Church, 1571 Baldwin St., Jenison, with Dr. Carl Bosma officiating. Burial at Georgetown Township Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 5-8 pm at Ridgewood CRC and on Saturday from 10-11 am prior to the service. The family requests that those attending the visitation and/or service please wear a mask. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Jenison Christian School or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Visitation
Friday, October 1
5:00pm - 8:00pm

Ridgewood Christian Reformed Church
1571 Baldwin St.
Jenison, MI 49428
Get Directions

Visitation
Saturday, October 2
10:00am - 11:00am

Ridgewood Christian Reformed Church
1571 Baldwin St.
Jenison, MI 49428
Get Directions

Funeral Service
Saturday, October 2
11:00am

Ridgewood Christian Reformed Church
1571 Baldwin St.
Jenison, MI 49428
Get Directions

Leave Your Tribute Message

September 30, 2021 1:22pm
Dear Talsma Family, Deepest Sympathy--we are condo neighbors praying for you all. We will miss Ted.

- Grace Vander Kooi and family

September 30, 2021 10:28am
Ted was a nice neighbor to me. When I moved into the condo next door 13 years ago, Ted and Marilyn greeted me warmly. Ted always had a friendly smile, and we had a lot of nice chats when we happened to meet while getting the mail. This will come as no surprise to most, but it’s worth saying that Ted always dressed well. When I learned that he had worked at Roger’s Department store, I thought yes, he knows quality in clothing and how to look good. After Marilyn died, he carried-on valiantly with the support of his family and friends. I often saw the cars of his kids and grandchildren in his driveway, as well those of friends who came to visit. He was well cared for by those who loved him. I could tell that he was confident in his faith that one day he would go home to his Creator.

- Carol Sue Tanis

September 29, 2021 3:19pm
Ted was my favorite uncle. He and Marilyn would always stop and see us on their way to Florida. He was always encouraging to me and was very kind when my mother (his sister) passed away. I know he loved his kids and grandkids because he always spoke proudly of them. Ted loved the Lord and I know that he is worshipping around the throne even now. And catching up with Marilyn.

- Paul Knott

September 27, 2021 6:45pm
Grandpa T will certainly be missed on this side of heaven. He was always easy to talk to and had such a wonderful sense of humor! I always appreciated the way he remembered little details about my life and would be sure to bring them up in conversation whenever I saw him. His legacy of faithfulness and trust in the Lord is such an encouragement! I know he's in the best place now, but I'll miss him dearly.

- Kristie Post

September 27, 2021 2:27pm
A Special Grandpa to many and a Faithful Friend to all he met. Going to miss you like crazy Grandpa Ted and our visits! But I know you are in a way better place! Well Done Good and Faithful Servant - Well Done! Until we meet again in Glory!

- Tracy Mulder

September 27, 2021 1:23pm
As a high schooler, I worked with Ted at Jurgens & Holtvluer. We kept in touch throughout his years at Rogers and into his retirement. I would frequently see him at MGB Salon, where we both had our haircut. We shared an interest in music as well as our work in the men's clothing industry. Ted was a good friend. He was unafraid to offer an opinion and I learned a lot from him. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

- Thomas Folkert




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