Obituary

Remembering Sidney Sinnema

Sid Sinnema, 81, of Rockford, formerly of Bozeman, Montana, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
Born in Bozeman, Montana, to the late Jake and Sadie Sinnema, he was raised on a farm where he developed a strong work ethic that remained a defining characteristic throughout his life. In 2014, he moved to West Michigan to be closer to his family, cherishing the opportunity to spend more time with those he loved. Sid also proudly served his country in the U.S. Army National Guard, carrying with him a deep sense of patriotism and commitment.
Blessed with a servant's heart and an unwavering love for his family, he was a fierce protector of those he loved and a man whose generosity was evident through the countless ways he shared his time and talents with others. Over the years Sid actively served his church, as elder and deacon, Bible study leader, and in many other capacities. A special highlight of Sid’s life was travelling with his wife Aurene to Tanzania to build a helicopter hanger for a missionary they supported from their church. Whether serving community organizations or lending a helping hand, he found joy in making life a little better for those around him.
He possessed an exceptional mechanical mind and was remarkably resourceful, able to solve almost any problem placed before him. Following his retirement, he worked at a local hardware store in Bozeman, where customers frequently sought him out by name, knowing he could quickly identify the exact part or tool needed for any project. His knowledge, patience, and willingness to help made him a trusted resource and a friend to many.
He also enjoyed traveling and camping over the years, creating lasting memories through life's adventures. Sid also enjoyed woodworking, creating beautiful keepsakes for his family and friends to enjoy. Yet, above all else, his greatest joy was found in his family. His steadfast love, strength, servant's heart, and faithful example will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Aurene; children, Michael Sinnema; Laurie (Tim) Rodriguez, Brian (Mashawn) Sinnema, Callie (Cory) Westerlund; grandchildren, Hannah and Jacob Rodriguez, Aiden (Joelle) Brunin, Sophia Sinnema, and Carson (Sammi) Johnson, great grandsons, Cole and Kian Johnson; siblings, Gerald and Mary Sinnema, James and Jan Sinnema; sister-in-law, Carrie Sinnema, brother-in-law and sister in-law, Dennis and Judy Stoel; several loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandsons, Gavin Brunin, and Connor and Cameron Johnson.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 1601 Post Drive NE, Belmont, with Pastor Josh Williams officiating.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday from 10:30 - 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.  A luncheon will be held immediately following the service with a continued time of fellowship and remembering. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Sleep in Heavenly Peace - Cedar Springs, MI, Chapter.  

Service Information

Visitation and Funeral Details

Tribute Photos

Photos of Sidney

Guestbook

Tribute Messages

Leave Your Tribute
Enjoyed Sid company and friendship while in school in Denver(1965). Always a Happy out look and hard worker in landscaping. Kind lost track of each other when I went into Air Force. My sympathy goes to all the family. Ken

— Ken Alberda

I’m sorry to hear of Sid’s passing, but know that he is more alive now than he’s ever been. I pray the family takes comfort in that reality. I knew Sid from E Free in Bozeman. His warm smile, handshake and greeting every Sunday morning were a blessing to me. I especially recall the financial classes he led, and I assumed the leadership role after he and Aurene moved. His leadership was that influential. I pray peace that passes all understanding as the family grieves this loss.

— John Graves

I’m sorry to hear of Sid’s passing, but know that he is more alive now than he’s ever been. I pray the family takes comfort in that reality. I knew Sid from E Free in Bozeman. His warm smile, handshake and greeting every Sunday morning were a blessing to me. I especially recall the financial classes he led, and I assumed the leadership role after he and Aurene moved. His leadership was that influential. I pray peace that passes all understanding as the family grieves this loss.

— John Graves

Sid and Aurene were one of the first people we met when we started attending church. They captivated me on how warm and inviting they were. I was and am in awe of the beauty of the gospel demonstrated in Sid. Butch and I got to share several conversations together and the one that forever changed my outlook was when Sid said he didn’t know why God had him on this path of suffering but that he saw it as an opportunity to be around people he would never otherwise interact with. Doctors, Nurses and all those who were part of his care. I am sure he had an impact on each of them with his unwavering faith in Jesus. Thank you Sid for being an Elder, Servant and Brother in Christ. I am sure you heard Well done thou good and faithful servant when you entered His gates. You will be missed here and see you in Heaven one day. Hugs and Love, Jamie (and Butch) Zannini

— Jamie Zannini

My good friend. Thank you for being a role model to me. You were always so kind and helpful to others. You will be missed greatly. Enjoy the rest of your days with our heavenly father. To your family, I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Scott.

— Scott Antonson

What's not to like about seeing Jesus face to face!! I'll always remember his laugh and all the fun he added to our coffee times at Grandpa and Grandma Sinnema's at the retirement home....Praying for Aunt Aurene and all of the rest! Saying good bye is NO FUN! We Love you all! Bonnie and Jim

— Bonnie Potts

Brian, please accept my sincere sympathy. May you and your family find comfort in your many memories.

— Donna L Rudy

Continued prayers for peace and comfort during this time! What an amazing man!! Sid taught me how to use a drill and how to build a bed, but what I'll remember most isn't what he taught me—it's how he taught me. Sid never made me feel foolish for not knowing something. He treated me with kindness, patience, and genuine respect. He had a way of making people feel valued, and in those simple moments, I saw the love of Christ reflected in him. The lessons he gave me went far beyond tools or practical skills. He showed me what it looks like to serve others with humility, dignity, and grace. I will always be grateful for his example, and I'll carry those memories with me. Rest in peace, Sid. You made a difference in my life, and your kindness will never be forgotten.

— Kelly M Darling

I miss you Dad, thanks for all the lessons, thank you for living a life full of examples that point straight to Christ, thank you for teaching us the value of hard work, to be selfless and sacrifice for others and to be proud of a job well done. I love you so very much.

— Brian Sinnema

Leave a Tribute

Share a message with the family

Order Flowers

Send Flowers for Sidney

Honor Sidney with a floral arrangement delivered through Love Knots Floral.

Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement

$100 + $15 Delivery Fee

Thinking of You Basket

$40 + $15 Delivery Fee

Stargazer Garden

$78 + $15 Delivery Fee

Stargazer Easel Spray

$150 + $15 Delivery Fee

Sincere Sympathy Garden

$55 + $15 Delivery Fee

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

$30 + $15 Delivery Fee

Remembrance Easel Spray

$175 + $15 Delivery Fee

Natures Glory

$55 + $15 Delivery Fee

Loving Embrace

$60 + $15 Delivery Fee

Gerbera Greetings

$50 + $15 Delivery Fee

Colorful Memories Wreath

$315 + $15 Delivery Fee

Classic Sympathy

$65 + $15 Delivery Fee

Blooming Duo

$60 + $15 Delivery Fee

Bells of Beauty

$130 + $15 Delivery Fee

Beautiful Memories

$175 + $15 Delivery Fee

Beautiful Blessings Wreath

$240 + $15 Delivery Fee

Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.