Donald James Slater's Obituary
Donald James Slater, 80, passed away Tuesday, April 13, 2021 in Zeeland. He was born March 7, 1941 to Albert and Ida (Bouwkamp) Slater in Muskegon, and was a lifelong resident of the Muskegon and Spring Lake areas. Don was a member of Forest Park Covenant Church. He took mission trips to Alaska and Kentucky and mentored many individuals who were struggling with financial difficulties through Love in the Name of Christ. He served on the Muskegon Christian School board and the Board of Trustees at Forest Park Covenant Church. Don was a mentor with Crossroad Prison Ministries, correcting weekly Bible studies and sending letters of encouragement to inmates. He also sponsored a young man in the Congo. He served with the Army National Guard for 6 years. During the first half of his working career, Don was employed as a licensed master electrician in manufacturing. In the second half, he worked in electrical engineering for several manufacturers, designing automation controls. He also owned residential rental dwellings to provide safe and clean housing. Don always enjoyed small group Bible studies at work and church. On June 11, 1965, he married the love of his life, Kay DeWall, and she survives him along with 3 children: Lynda (Wayne) Faber of Onekama, David (Kara) Slater of Holland, Steven (Annelise) Slater of Brighton, Utah; grandchildren: Joel (Megan) Faber, Rachel (Carson) Wiens, Skyler, River and Forest Slater; sister: Lois Visser; sisters-in-law: Marilou (Frank DeHaan) Kratzenstein; Joan DeWall, and Sheryl (Dan) Beerens. He was preceded in death by his parents. The funeral service for Don will be held Monday, April 19, at 1:30 PM at Forest Park Covenant Church. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the funeral. Burial will take place at Spring Lake Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Mr. Slater may be made to Western Michigan Christian High/Middle School, Love in the Name of Christ, or Forest Park Covenant Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.
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