John J. Zuidema

ZUIDEMA, John J.
Of Kalamazoo Passed away Saturday morning, August 29, 2009. John was born January 20, 1921 in Kalamazoo the son of John and Henrietta DeWinter Zuidema and had been a life long resident in the Kalamazoo area. John was a veteran serving in the South Pacific from 1941-1944 with the U.S. Marine Corps. Prior to his retirement he was employed for 25 years with the Upjohn Company. He was a member of the Twin Lakes Reformed Church; served as an officer for the D.A.V.; and for a time was on the Cooper Township Board of Review. John also was instrumental in the planning for the D.A.V. monument on the County Courthouse property which overlooks Bronson Park. John was a loving husband and father who enjoyed spending time with his family; carpentry, woodcarving, and traveling. On December 6, 1946 he was united in marriage to his loving wife, the former Elizabeth "Betty" DeRoo who survives. Also surviving are 3 children, James Zuidema, Carol DeHaan, Thomas Zuidema; 6 grandchildren, Melissa Val Ragainis, Jennifer Zuidema, Matthew Zuidema, Robin and Rebecca DeHaan, William Zuidema; 2 great-grandchildren, Natalie and Jossalyn; a sister, Grace Sportel; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Henrietta Triemstra; and a brother, William Zuidema. Services will be held 11:00 o'clock Tuesday at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick with Rev. Don DeYoung officiating. Friends may meet the family Monday from 2-4 and 6-8pm at the Memorial Chapel. Private interment will be in East Cooper Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Kairos Dwelling or the Twin Lakes Church Youth Groups. www.langelands.com