Richard Wiersema

Richard Wiersema, age 85, of Jenison has claimed his heavenly reward and is now restored. He left this earth on Thursday, September 6, 2018, surrounded by his children. Rich joined his wife, Ruth (Morrow), in heaven on a significant day, as it would have been their 62nd wedding anniversary. Praise the Lord for his perfect timing! Also preceding him in death are his parents, Albert and Grace Wiersema; sister, Hilda Miedema; and brothers, George and Bernard Wiersema. Rich entered the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, proudly serving his country as a MP. To honor this sacrifice, his funeral will include an honor guard ceremony. After serving his time in the military, he worked for Keeler Brass and retired after working there for more than 45 years. Rich enjoyed ice fishing, gardening, a good flea market, volunteering and wintering in Florida later in life. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family, who enjoyed his sense of humor until the very end. Rich will be lovingly remembered by his children, Ray (Amy) Wiersema, Ron Wiersema and Rhonda Wiersema; his grandchildren, who he deeply treasured, Ashley (Joel) Sterk, Owen (Rosey) Wiersema, Shelby (Todd) Dougherty, Morgan (Tim) Poll and Paige (Tyler) Hage; nine sweet, great grandchildren, Anthony, Ava, Molly, Reese, Sadie, Asa, Braxton, Hannah and Toby. He was a loving grandfather and great grandfather to many foster grandchildren and great grandchildren as well. Rich is also survived by his sister-in-law, Sylvia Wiersema; brothers-in-law, Gord and Ken Morrow; and a host of other family members. Dad was also blessed to have a very special companion in life, Shirley Schut, for the last 8 years. Thank you, Shirley, for all you did for our dad. Our family would like to say a special thank you to Amy for all of the loving care you provided. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, September 10, 2018, at Cottonwood Church, 1101 Cypress Drive, Jenison, with Pastor Matthew Palsrok officiating. Interment Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Relatives and friends may meet the family Sunday, September 9, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville), 4145 Chicago Drive SW. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Love INC.

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint,” Isaiah 40:31