Donald Brinks

In Loving Memory of Donald Brinks
June 25, 1930 - November 30, 2019

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." John 14:1-3

Don Brinks passed away, Saturday, November 30, 2019, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. He was born June 25, 1930 to the late Edward and Katherine (Norden) Brinks. Don graduated from South Haven High School and attended Hope College and Western Michigan University, majoring in business and education.

Dad was an educator at heart, teaching high school accounting and general business at Coloma, Kalamazoo Central, Kalamazoo Loy Norrix, and summer classes at Western Michigan University. Dad was an early adaptor of computer technology and embraced teaching and sharing the advantages of business IT with his students. After retiring from public education, Dad continued teaching business classes at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, until he and Mom (Arlene) decided to fly south for the winter.

While teaching was a full-time job for Dad, he also spent many years doing the accounting and tax work for a variety of Kalamazoo small businesses, using these earnings to put his five children through Hope College. Dad's business acumen was on full display when he secured the accounting work for the Milham Park and Eastern Golf Courses in Kalamazoo, ensuring free rounds throughout his retirement!

Dad was a strong Christian, modeling a vibrant faith for his kids and grandkids through worship, song, and service at Trinity Reformed Church for more than 50 years. Dad and Mom also believed in giving back, providing long-time financial support to Trinity, the Reformed Church in America, Western Seminary, and Hope College. Mom and Dad lived true to the scriptures, believing "to whom much is given, much is required". Dad surely felt blessed, telling us often he never looked for work…. the Lord provided every job he ever had.

When not working, Dad was an avid and "cagey" golfer, frequently beating his three sons at the game he taught us all to play and love. Dad played, coached, and enjoyed all sports and he and Mom were constant sideline supporters for their kids and grandkids various athletic endeavors. Dad and Mom both enjoyed music too, singing in the church choir for years, and after Mom's passing in 2007, Dad continued to regularly attend concerts across West Michigan with his friends the Stonerocks.

Don is survived by his children, Kathy Waterstone of Holland, MI, Marc Brinks of Charlotte, NC, Keith (Rebecca) Brinks of Havertown, PA, Mary Remynse of Richland, MI, Kevin (Robin) Brinks of Commerce Township, MI; and 13 grandchildren. Preceding him in death were; wife, Arlene (Koopsen), brother Harold and sisters Faye and Annette. A celebration of Don's life is scheduled for 11am on January 3, 2020, at Portage First Reformed, 7905 South Westnedge Ave, Portage, MI 49002. The service will be officiated by grandsons Rev. Dr. Matt Waterstone, Rev. Mark Waterstone, and Tyler Brinks (Third Year Seminary Student). A private family committal service will be held at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park, South.

How Many Men? A question Dad would jokingly ask his kids regarding his physical fitness and strength. Just one Dad, you were one of a kind! We love you and Mom and miss you both, but what a blessing to know you're together again in Heaven. Well done thou good and faithful servant!

Memorial donations may be designated to Hope College, Western Theological Seminary or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.

The family is being cared for by Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 411 E Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49002. To view Donald's personalized web page, please visit https://www.langelands.com