Jacquelyn Marie "Jackie" Balkema's Obituary
Jacquelyn Marie Balkema (Jackie), age 90, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on June 1, 2024. She was born on May 11, 1934, in Muskegon, daughter of William and Reathel Brown.
She will be remembered as being a wonderful, extremely kind, and supportive mother. Despite dealing with several hardships and challenges in her life, Jackie always had a smile on her face and was full of love and grace. She always put her children above all else. Jackie’s outgoing and friendly personality naturally attracted people from all walks of life. She never met a stranger who she couldn’t strike up a conversation with and was extremely passionate towards those who were less fortunate.
Jackie had an undeniable faith in God. This faith and her daily prayers provided the support she needed throughout her life.
On a personal level, Jackie will forever be known for her love of cats! She became known as a “cat whisperer,” even teaching one of her cats how to say “Mama.” She treated her cats just like she did people, with love and kindness.
Jackie loved shopping! If it weren’t for fashionable women’s attire, it would be furniture and accessories. There were a number of people who said if you want an overview of what’s new at TJ Maxx and HomeGoods, just set foot in Jackie’s home!
Jackie was incredibly involved in her children’s lives and did everything she could to provide support and guidance for each of them, as well as her grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Jackie is survived by her five children, Steve (Sue) Schuitema, Kevin (Sharon) Schuitema, Russ (Lori) Schuitema, Lori (Mark) Kling and Sherri (Jim) VanderWier; grandchildren, Scott (Gabrielle) Schuitema, Jake Schuitema, Christopher Schuitema, Reed (Brenna) Schuitema, Lindsay (Jordan) Mattfolk, Tony (Carly) Polinori, Madison Polinori, Morgan (Morse) Michael, and Danielle Medacco who all affectionately referred to her as “Mema”; and eight great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lee (Roger) Balkema; her infant child, Shelley Schuitema; her two sisters, Betty (Chuck) Collett and Marilyn (Marv) Smith.
Last month, there was a celebration of Jackie’s 90th Birthday where she was able to engage with her family, relatives, and friends. In consideration of this celebration, a funeral service will not be held, however a private interment will take place at a later date.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered their support during the final months of her life, with special thanks to Harbor Hospice and her caretaker, Bobbie Hinkley.
In remembrance of Jackie’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Pound Buddies.
The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services (6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444) is honored to be serving the family. To share special memories with the family and sign the online guestbook, please visit http://www.sytsemafh.com.
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