John Kloosterman

John, 89, went to be with his Lord and Savior peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. John graduated from Kalamazoo Christian High in 1949. He attended Calvin College and graduated from WMU. John was a lifelong member of Grace Christian Reformed Church. He often told his family and friends about his love for the Lord and he studied his Bible faithfully.

John served in the US Army with the rank of Staff Sergeant in the Korean War. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge. He had a great love of his country and was honored to serve. John was a 4th grade school Teacher at Waylee Elementary in the Portage Public Schools. He treasured his fellow staff and students and had many wonderful memories during his years of teaching. A lifelong learner himself, he found great joy in the constant pursuit of education. In his retirement he also spent his time restoring houses.

John was a sports enthusiast and built Rainbow Valley Miniature Golf and batting cages, one of the first in Kalamazoo. He was an avid golfer well into his 80's. His annual Northern MI hunting and golfing trips provided him with many friendships and fond memories. John was known for bringing his Gibson guitar along and providing entertainment. His positive attitude, sense of humor and devotion will be missed forever.

He is proceeded in death by his wife of 56 years, Nellie Triezenberg, his parents, and brothers: Richard Kloosterman, Gerrit Kloosterman, Henry Kloosterman and Martin Kloosterman. John was blessed to have a large extended family whom he loved very much. His children include Jonathan (Chris) Kloosterman of Vicksburg, Jeffrey (Katherine) Kloosterman of Hudsonville, Annmarie (Tom) Kiemel of Colorado Springs and Charlene (Larry) White of Scotts. He is also survived by his special grandchildren: Dylan, Casey, Analise, Grace & Brynn Kloosterman, Nicholas, Noah & Thomas Kiemel and James White and siblings: Katherine Redeker, Walter Kloosterman, Henrietta Amey, James Kloosterman and Robert Kloosterman.

A private graveside service will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery, where John will be laid to rest alongside of his wife Nellie. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held later in the year. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Grace Christian Reformed Church or the Kalamazoo Christian School Association. Please visit John's online guest book to leave a condolence, personal message or memory of him at https://www.langelands.com