Harold “Putt” James Popma

Popma, Harold James Harold “Putt” James Popma, age 93 of Grand Rapids, formerly of Pine Lake went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December 29, 2014.  He was preceded in death by his grandchildren, Julie Ann Popma and Todd Velding, and was the last of five children.  Surviving are his wife of 73 years, Irene; children, Harold “Putt”  (Nancy) Popma, Cheryl (Bob) Velding, Bob (Donna) Popma, Dan (Kathie) Popma, Steve Popma, Paul (Nancy) Popma; 22 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews. Harold served in the U.S. Navy. He was the founding father of Lilly Products Inc., which began in 1968.  His favorite hobby was fishing. He was a friend to everyone he met and anyone could always hear him say, “You betch ya” or “Oke Dokey.”  According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Mass will be held 11am Saturday at St. John Vianney Church, 4101 Clyde Park SW with Fr. Mike Alber presiding.  Interment Resurrection Cemetery.  A time of visitation will be Saturday 10-11am at the church prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Ann’s Home. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff of St. Ann’s Home for their loving care of Harold.