David "Al" Balkema's Obituary
David Allan “Al” Balkema, age 84, loving husband and cherished father, passed away Sunday, December 6, 2015 in Venice, Florida. He was born October 2, 1931 in Muskegon to Elmer and Hazel (Fischer) Balkema. Al served as a medic in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and was a graduate of Western Michigan University. He was self-employed as the owner of Balkema Pool and Construction before retiring and turning over the business to his son, Eric. He had also worked for DuPont for 18 years. On February 17, 1961 he married Sarah C. “Carol” Kilcrease in Muskegon. Al was a member of the Muskegon Elks Lodge #274, the Muskegon Eagles Aerie #668, and the Lincoln Golf Club. His favorite hobbies included: hunting, fishing, golfing, and bowling. SURVIVORS include his wife of 54 years, Carol; 2 children: Eric Allan (Sue) Balkema, Lisa Carol (Matt) Brown both of Whitehall; 5 grandchildren: Taylor Sikkenga, Nicholas and Rachel Balkema, Kassie Brown and Katie (Andrew) Rosema; 4 great-grandchildren; sister, Bette Weerstra and sister-in-law, Jackie Balkema both of Muskegon; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lee Roger Balkema; brother-in-law, Jack Weerstra; and nephews: Michael and Brett, and niece Debbie. Al’s family will be having a private service for him in Nokomis, Florida. A Celebration of Al’s Life will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, April 30, 2016 at The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St., (231) 798-1100. VISITATION with the family will be one hour prior to the service. MEMORIALS to Harbor Hospice will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their On-line Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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