Irene Boelema

Irene Boelema, age 104, of Grand Rapids, was called to be with her Lord and Saviour, Jesus, on Thursday, June 25, 2020.  Irene’s mother passed away when she was only five years old and she was raised by her grandparents.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph, of 39 years, two sisters, and two brothers.  She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Betty Jo (Duane) Overbeek; grandchildren, Shellie (Doug) Martinie, Scott Overbeek, and Steve (Holli) Overbeek; great-grandchildren, Marissa (fiance Cody Knott) Martinie, Matt (Morgan) Martinie, Drew Martinie, Sara and Sarena Overbeek, Kate and Travis Overbeek.  Irene was a loving, caring wife, mother, and grandmother.  She lived for 24 years at The Holland Home and was loved and respected by the staff.  She also worked as a cook for 17 years for Grand Rapids Public Schools and enjoyed visiting with the students.  Irene enjoyed playing bingo, the card game “Golf,” knitting, and doing jigsaw puzzles.  She was a faithful and active member of East Leonard Christian Reformed Church for over 60 years.   The family would like to thank the staff of Faith Hospice and Holland Home for the care and love provided to Irene.  Funeral services will be held 11 am Tuesday, June 30, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Drive SW, with Rev. Gerry Heyboer officiating.  Burial at Fairplains Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday from 10-11 am at the funeral home prior to the service.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to East Leonard Christian Reformed Church Education Fund, Faith Hospice, or the Holland Home Resident Assistance Fund.