Bert Buursma's Obituary
Mr. Bert Buursma, age 92, passed away Thursday afternoon, October 6, 2011. He was born January 12, 1919 in Ferwerd, The Netherlands to Duke and Bertha Buursma. Mr. Buursma served in the Dutch Army during WWII. In 1952, he moved his family from the Netherlands to Muskegon and started working for Shaw Walker, working there 31 years before retiring in 1983. Mr. Buursma loved traveling, golfing, camping, the Red Wings, and enjoyed life. He worked hard and was a talented wood worker and craftsman. He also enjoyed gardening, paying special attention to his roses. But most of all, he loved his grandchildren, and they loved him. On January 11, 1946 he married the former Willemina “Mini” terRiet in The Netherlands, and she survives him along with 2 children, Renee (Greg) Hoadley of Spring Lake, Ed (Sharon) Buursma of West Linn, Oregon; 4 grandchildren, Robin, Jared, Zach, and Jasmine; 2 sisters, Yfke Buursma of The Netherlands, Janet (Jim) Polet of Holland, MI; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his older brother and 2 sisters. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, October 15, 2011 at The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St. (231) 798-1100 with Rev. Mark R. Erbes officiating. VISITATION with the family will be one hour prior to the service. MEMORIALS the American Heart Association or the Muskegon Host Lions Club - Welcome Home for the Blind will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their On-line Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Bert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bert?
Share a story where Bert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bert you’ll never forget.
How did Bert make you smile?