William "Bill" Fielstra's Obituary
William “Bill” Fielstra, age 89, was called home on April 15, 2004. Bill died after a long and active life of service, love and support for his family and community. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Eleanor Fielstra who died in 1993. Bill was born in Muskegon to Grace Fielstra on October 8, 1914. He was preceded in death by brothers, Alex and Garrit. Bill worked throughout his Muskegon Public School years and graduated in 1932 from Muskegon High School whose yearbook identified Bill as “The family’s protecting arm.” He married Eleanor in August 1936 and worked manufacturing and laying cement blocks and later worked as a set up man for Continental Motors until his retirement in 1978. Bill was a proud member and union steward for UAW Local 113. Bill was a youth baseball coach and officer in parent organizations for several years. He was a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan who visited Wrigley Field every chance he could with his children. He was a loyal Democrat and devoted family man who will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. Bill is survived by his three children; William R. (Patricia) Fielstra of Muskegon, Karen F. (William) Thomas of Kalamazoo, Randall D. (Theresa) Fielstra of Whitehall; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; a sister, Dell Doorn of Muskegon; and special friend and helpmate Carol Clark. SERVICES for Mr. Fielstra will be 11:00AM Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc., 737 Apple Ave., 231-726-5210. Visitation with the family will be 6-9PM Monday at the Funeral Home. A graveside service and interment will take place immediately following the service at Lakeside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to American Heart Association would be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their “online-guestbook” at www.sytsemafh.com
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