Birth date: Sep 28, 1922 Death date: Feb 10, 2015
Jay M. Wickstra, age 92, passed into glory February 10, 2015 in Bradenton, FL. He was born September 28, 1922 to John and Jesse Wickstra in New Era, MI. Jay proudly served his country in the Navy during WW II. On D-Day he was a c Read Obituary
I have so many great memories of Jay. He was the kindest man on the planet and always had a smile on his face. Our trip to Mackinaw one summer with Millie, my mom Johnnie Irwin (2nd cousin) and myself was so much fun. Driving up, I was the "pilot", Jay was the "co-pilot" and mom and Milie sat in the back playing games. We stopped along the way and played cards each night at the hotels. We stayed at the Lakeview Hotel on Mackinaw Island and loved sitting out on the veranda in the rocking chairs overlooking Lake Michigan. I took them all to the Grand Hotel for brunch via horse & buggy and we had the best time ever. Cards every night - tour via horse & buggy. It was a blast.
There was also a memorable camping trip to Pioneer Park in Muskegon. My mom and dad (Charles and Johnnie Irwin) invited another couple, Tom and "Jay" Daniels, with their daughter, Debbie to come camping with us. So while pitching or attempting to pitch their tent, Jay W. was being a nice guy and trying to help them. Well, unbeknownst to him, Tom started getting upset because this 'jiffy tent' was taking longer and he started blowing his top at Jay, his wife - and Jay W. thought he was yelling at him!! Jay went back to his campsite and said, boy, I don't know what's up with that guy, I was just trying to help out. Then once they all figured out that there were two "Jay's" a good laugh was had by all! Still brings a smile to my face.
He was a gentle soul and will be missed dearly.
With heartfelt sympathy to all who knew him,
Love,
Ann Irwin
PS - I have alot more stories and memories that I will cherish forever!
