Kris A. Harkema's Obituary
Kris A. Harkema, age 64, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 17, 2021 while asleep at home. He was born on March 12, 1957 to Richard and Betty (Ruiter) Harkema in Grand Haven, MI. He was a dedicated employee of 35 years working with his brother, Wayne and his partners Adam and Brian at Garage Door Specialist (GDS). There he specialized in garage door installation until he retired in October of 2020. Kris was a true outdoorsman and loved to fish, go boating, kayaking and hunt. In his hunting adventures, he loved the tree called “The Better Tree” in Pentwater, MI. He was a man of many talents, besides knowing all there is to know about garage doors; he was also skilled in woodworking. He was a man who thrived on making the most of life and enjoying all the adventures it had to offer. Kris will always be remembered as being a quiet man that was laid back and easy going yet balanced with the perfect amount of fun. His generous and kind-loving spirit will truly be missed by so many. He is survived by his son, Eric (Brittni Papke) Harkema; grandchild, Khloe Harkema; longtime girlfriend, Roxann Elliott; her 3 children, Keri (Dylan) Wade, Tracy Elliott and Nathan Elliott; her grandchildren; brother, Wayne (Vickie) Harkema; 3 sisters, Joyce Elmore, Sandra (Robert) Williams Jr. and Bonnie (John) Ulmer; brother-in-law, Gary Bollenbach; numerous nieces and nephews; dear friends, Adam Kotecki and Tom Olsen; and many more dear friends and extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Fay Bollenbach; and brother-in-law, John Elmore. Memorial Contributions in Kris’ honor can be made directly to the family. A time to remember and celebrate Kris' life will be held from 1-4:00PM Sunday, November 7, 2021 at 4201 N. Central Ave., Muskegon, MI 49445. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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