Richard J. Riemersma

Richard J. Riemersma, aged 85 of Kentwood went to be with his Lord on Friday, March 11, 2016.  He was born August 5, 1930 in Coopersville, MI. Rich’s wife, Marge preceded him in death in August 19, 2011 just three months short of their 60th anniversary. He attended Creston High School and graduated from Davenport University in 1958 serving two years in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. He also spent several years in the family dairy business prior to going into the insurance business.  He was the branch claims manager at Lake States Insurance Company for 28 years retiring in 1993. He enjoyed walleye fishing and gardening. For the past 20 years he enjoyed walking with his many “mall walker friends” at Rogers Mall.  He was also preceded in death by his parents, Len and Marie Riemersma; and great-grandson, Isaiah Jay Nguyen.  He is survived by his children, Shelly L. (Doug) Hogle of Kentwood, Terrie (Eugene) Gavin of Alto, Dan Riemersma of Kentwood, Jill (Fred) Calton of Wyoming; 13 grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Gerald (Helen) Riemersma of Rockford, Lorraine Boer of East Grand Rapids, Marvin (Betty) Riemersma of Grand Rapids, Yvonne Anderson of Iron Mt, Kenneth Riemersma of Grand Rapids; and many nieces and nephews.  Funeral services for Richard will be held Monday at 11:00 am at Heritage Baptist Church, 1570 – 60th St. SE with Rev. Randy Vruggink officiating.  Interment in Resurrection Cemetery.  Members of the family will receive relatives and friends at the Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Chapel (Kentwood), 4646 Kalamazoo SE, Sunday from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm.  Memorial contributions may be given to Faith Hospice.