Claire Bronkema

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Claire Bronkema at the age of 94 on May 7, 2025, in St. Petersburg, FL. Born on December 6, 1930, Claire dedicated her life to serving and worshiping God, embodying a spirit of genuine love and kindness that touched everyone she met.

Claire graduated from Wyoming High School and spent most of her career as a devoted wife and mother. As her children grew, she devoted 27 years to the food industry at Newhall Junior High, where her nurturing nature extended to all those she worked with. Her commitment to her faith was evident in her active participation at the United Methodist Church. A beacon of faith, Claire was a devoted believer in Jesus Christ and positively impacted many lives with her kindness and compassion.

In her leisure time, Claire enjoyed cooking, often comforting those around her with a bologna sandwich, peanut butter cookies, and tuna rolls among many other favorites. She also loved sewing, knitting, and walking, and began painting in her 40s, creating stunning works of art. Claire was an enthusiastic member of the Patriot Squares women’s activities, where she participated in bingo, the Red Hat Society, and mystery trips, always eager to engage in community and social events. 

Claire is survived by her sons, Gary Bronkema and his wife Theresa, Dennis Bronkema and his wife Lori; grandchildren, Matt Bronkema, Grace Montebon, Genevieve Katchaluba, Ashley Atkins, and Tracy Joson; great-grandchildren, Kyle Montebon, Raiya Atkins, Colton Atkins, and Giuliana Katchaluba; and brother, Tom Raible and his wife Jan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard Bronkema; son, Terry Bronkema; and grandson, Chris Bronkema.

Services to honor Claire’s life will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. Burial will take place at Rosedale Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Tuesday from 10-11 am prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to your local hospice in Claire’s memory, honoring her compassionate spirit. Claire will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.