Mike Hamm was known and respected throughout the county for his work in human services and his gift of friendship to many. When we saw what Ms. Trapp had written as a tribute to Mike we asked her permission to include it with his obituary. She graciously granted it. Extraordinary. Remarkable. Incredible. Amazing. Strong. Phenomenal. Astonishing. I was trying to think of a word to describe Mike and just one doesn’t come close to describing how great this man actually was. His incredible stubborn streak and intense determination brought him farther than most and he accomplished so much in his 66 short years. Enjoying and excelling in everything he did from hunting to fishing, gourmet cooking, appreciating good scotch and well cooked ribeye! Mike was a true friend to so many and an amazing role model, he never ever complained when he could have, making me have the utmost respect for him. Mike I’ll forever cherish the memories we have with you - especially our Alabama Adventure! With happiness that you are with Jesus and your earthly suffering is over I am so sad our friend is no longer here. Mike we will miss you dearly you made my world a better place by being in it. Walk freely in heaven and rest easy my friend. Annie Trapp Michael "Mike" Jay Hamm March 17, 1954 ~ September 13, 2020 Michael Jay Hamm, age 66 of White Cloud, MI passed away in his sleep on September 13, 2020 at Faith Hospice, Trillium Woods, in Byron Center, MI. He walks with Angels. Mike was born in Grand Haven, MI on March 17, 1954 to the late Jay and Jacqueline (Hirdes) Hamm. He was born with Cerebral Palsy (“CP”). His parents were advised that Mike was developmentally disabled. They refused to accept that and insisted Mike receive a mainstream education without special treatment. He learned early in life that CP would not define him and that it would not place limits on him. Mike participated in varsity athletics as team manager. He graduated from Grand Haven Sr. High School in 1973. Mike went on to earn bachelor’s degrees from Michigan State University (1977), Grand Valley State University (1984); and an MSW from Grand Valley State University (1987). He was a Mason and was a former member of Trinity Reformed Church (Grand Haven) and was affiliated with other Christian organizations. He spent most of his career as a psychiatric social worker for Newaygo County Community Mental Health. Mike became the Youth Services Supervisor in 1993 and retired as the Adult Services Supervisor. Following his retirement, Mike continued to be an advocate by serving on various boards that provided oversight to non-profits working on behalf of Mental Health Consumers, as well as entities that served people with disabilities. Mike was kind, charming, witty, a great friend, a classic bachelor and fiercely independent. He loved a good joke. Mike was known for being an excellent turkey hunter (and guide), and was a dedicated bow-hunter into the early 90s. When his CP made it impossible for him to draw a bow, he focused on hunting with a rifle. Some of the animals Mike harvested included whitetail deer, mule deer, red stag, and mouflon sheep. He was also instrumental in developing several chapters of the National Wild Turkey Federation. Mike introduced many hunters to the sport of turkey hunting and donated time, energy, and money to the cause of the National Wild Turkey Federation. Mike loved watching football, college basketball, and the Detroit Pistons. He enjoyed watching NASCAR with his Dad and was a friend to many. Mike enjoyed gourmet food, fine wines, and scotch. He loved John Wayne. Those that knew Mike knew he was the personification of True Grit. He was a Patriot and a student of American History and especially enjoyed reading books that focused on the military. Mike loved to travel; his last trip (June 2019) saw him travel (by himself) to Normandy, France to attend the 75th Anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France. Mike is survived by his aunts, Gwen Myles and Linda (Al) Pontarelli (all Grand Haven); his special friend, Leona Royer (Big Rapids); and a village of great friends, colleagues and co-workers. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a couple great beagles. The Funeral Service for Mike will be at Trinity Reformed Church on Friday, September 18, 2020 at 11:00 am. Visitations will be held on Wednesday, September 16th from 6 to 9 p.m. at Crandell Funeral Home in White Cloud, and Thursday, September 17th from 6 to 9 p.m. at Klaassen Family Funeral Home. Mike intended his friends and family to have a party where they have a drink and share funny stories about his life. Considering Covid-19, a Celebration of Life will be held in his honor at a later time. Memorial contributions may be made to Disability Network West Michigan: Mike Hamm Memorial Fund for Outdoor Recreation or the White River Long Beards Chapter of the NWTF: JAKES Events. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael "Mike" Jay Hamm, please visit our floral store. Services Visitation Wednesday September 16, 2020 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Crandell Funeral Home 1109 Court St. White Cloud, MI 49349 Visitation Thursday September 17, 2020 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Klaassen Family Funeral Home 1500 Robbins Road Grand Haven, MI 49417 Funeral Service Friday September 18, 2020 11:00 AM Trinity Reformed Church 1330 S Ferry St. Grand Haven, MI 49417
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LeRoy Lee Fuller, Jr., age 60 of Bailey, MI., passed away on Tuesday evening, August 25, 2020 in a motorcycle accident. He was born on December 3, 1959 in Muskegon, Michigan to LeRoy Lee & Wanda Rose (Shull) Fuller, Sr. He was a transportation specialist (truck driver) until his retirement, and he was a member of IBEW #876 Union. Lee loved motorcycles, cars, hunting, listening to music, visiting with people, and spending time with his grandchildren who meant everything to him. He is survived by his wife, Jane (Sabo) Fuller; 4 children: David Lee (Darcy) Torrey, Darcie Kay (Marvin) Ennis, Daniel Richard Torrey, DeAnne Lynn Fuller; 19 grandchildren & 1 on the way: Nathan, Caden, Logan, Jade, Krystal, Ana, Taya, Cameron, Trenton, Yazmin, Sophia, Gabriella, Kolton, Ryan, Makena, Briana, Bianca, Isabella, & Layla. He is also survived by his mother, Wanda (John) Burnham; sisters & brother: Debra (Steve) Renouf, Patricia (Tim) Crandall, James (Jean) Fuller, & Bobbie Jo; many nieces & nephews; step-mother, Margaret Fuller; several step-brothers & step-sisters; several aunts, uncles, & cousins; and by his mother-in-law, Lola Allen. Lee was preceded in death by his father; and by his grandparents: Forest & Rosina Shull, Lawrence & Clara Fuller. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Gathering and Luncheon will be held from 12-3 P.M. on Saturday, August 29, 2020 at the DeAnn Fuller Residence (1389 N. Ravenna Road, Ravenna, Michigan 49451) with a Memorial Service starting at noon, and luncheon to follow. Suggested Memorials: The American Diabetes Association, or the American Heart Association. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. Paul E. Cook, 82, passed away on Wednesday morning, July 15, 2020 at his home in Shepherd, MI. He was born on Oct. 10, 1937 in Fremont to Edward and Marion (Harkema) Cook. He was a member of Second Christian Reformed Church in Fremont prior to moving to Shepherd, and he was currently a member of First Methodist Church in Palmetto, Florida. Paul also attended Central Christian Church in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. He had worked at General Motors in Grand Rapids for 32 years until his retirement in 1996, and he was a member of UAW Local 730. Paul loved to fish, play cards, and spend the winter months in Florida. He also enjoyed attending sporting events of his children & grandchildren, and he always loved a good road trip. On August 8, 1958 he married Allene Christoffersen who preceded him in death on April 11, 2009. Paul married Roberta Gilbert on January 19, 2013 and is survived by her along with his three sons, David (Chris) Cook of Grant, Michael (Kathy) Cook of Fremont, and Mark (Jill) Cook of Royal Oak; five grandchildren, Tiffany, Jon, Paige (John), Shannon (Adam), and Thad; one great-granddaughter, Claire, and another on the way; sister Mary Lou Wilkins of Grand Rapids; Roberta’s nine children, Pamela, Linda, Denise, Annette, Paula, Carol, Keith, Bobbi, & Jody; and her 18 grandchildren & 19 great grandchildren. Paul is also survived by his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Larry and Jane Hager of Jenison; Richard and Christina (deceased) Christoffersen of Rosenberg, Texas, Greg and Pam Christoffersen of Fremont, Gene and Donita Christoffersen of Fremont, Steve and Mary Christoffersen of Fremont, Barb and Robert (deceased) Hollinger of Grant, Kim and Carl Christenson of Holt, Joni and Tim Boeskool of Fremont, Lon and Tammy Christoffersen of Fremont, Beverly and Roger Flannery of Iowa, Frank (deceased) and Rose Jacobs of Weidman, MI., Bill and Gail Jacobs of Mount Pleasant; and by many nieces and nephews. Paul was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Marion; sister Barb Hager, grandson Joshua Cook, brother-in-law Leonard Wilkins, and sisters-in-law & their husbands: Sheri and Larry Herin, Carol and Elton Machuta. Visitation will be held at the Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home from 10-12 Noon on Saturday, July 18, 2020. Due to restrictions related COVID-19, a limited number of people will be allowed in at a time, and masks are required. A Graveside Service will be held at 12:30 PM on Saturday at Sherman Township Cemetery with Pastor Doug MacLeod officiating. Please bring your own mask, lawn chair, and umbrella (for sun or rain). Suggested Memorials: Heartland Hospice of Mount Pleasant or Newaygo County, or the Look Left Look Twice Joshua Cook Memorial at Chemical Bank. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. Mrs. Nora B. Houston, age 88 of Bridgeton Township, passed away on Tuesday morning, May 12, 2020 at her home. She was born on July 26, 1931 in Bellflower, Ohio to William & Clara (Kempton) Fowler. Nora enjoyed fishing, cooking, knitting, & crocheting, which included making baby hats for the hospital, and scrubbies. She had also worked for Gerber Products Company. On December 18, 1948 she married Albert Houston and he preceded her in death on June 6, 2007. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Connie Sue Houston in 1953; by her son-in-law, Earl Gouine in 1990; by her sister Eloda Dorn; and by her brothers: Francis, Joe, & Tom Fowler. Nora is survived by 3 children: Bonnie Gouine of Montague, Albert W. Houston of Bridgeton Twp, Michael Houston of Bridgeton Twp; 4 grandchildren: Arthur (Hayley) Gouine, Richard (Sara) Houston, Amy (Shawn) Lynch, Richard (Melissa)Gouine; 10 great grandchildren & 1 great-great grandson; sisters & brother: Janet Jones, Martha Hicks, Robert (Sheryl) Fowler, & Keitha Loomis all of the Bridgeton Area. A private family graveside service was held at Bridgeton Township Cemetery with Pastor Nick Bowling officiating. A Memorial Gathering will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2020 from 1-3 PM at the Holton American Legion Post (9150 Holton Road, Holton, Michigan 49425). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given to Harbor Hospice, or the Holton American Legion Post. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. Neil (Jeff) Jefferies, age 85 of Cedar Creek Township, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2020 at home with his family by his side. The family would like to thank Spectrum Health Hospice and Dr. Ceton for all of their care. Jeff was born in Portland, Oregon to William K. & Margaret (Rose) Jefferies on November 26, 1934. Jeff graduated from Cleveland High School in Oregon, and from Muskegon Community College. He was a US Army Veteran of the Korean War. Jeff had owned many businesses including accounting, Jeff’s Tire Barn, J.T.B. Trucking, and J.T.B. Surplus. He enjoyed hunting & fishing. Jeff leaves his wife of 63 years, Betty; son, Bill & Kris Jefferies; daughters: Barb & Bob Scott, Brenda & Dennis Bean; grandchildren: Geoff & Jessica, Jordan & Billy, Ashton & Jimmy; great grandchildren: Emrey, Josey, Hadley, Will, Braley, River, & one on the way; step-grandchildren: Trevor & Kiernan & Family, Tristan & Lisa & Family, Alyssa & Josh & Family, Kim & Family, Kraig & Family, Kari & Marc & Family, Kassi & Tony & Family; sister, Mariann & Chan; brothers: Kenny, Jack & Donna; sisters-in-law: Mary Ann Jefferies, Donna Hardy, Linda Parrish & Rick; and many nieces & nephews. Jeff was preceded in death by his mother & father, brother Bill in 2020, and grandson Keith in 2006. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service will be held at the Jefferies Residence (3746 Holton Duck Lake Road, Twin Lake, MI. 49457) beginning with Military Rites at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 18, 2020 followed by a luncheon and time to visit until 2:00 PM. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. Wilma Lee Ball of White Cloud , formerly of Hesperia, passed away at home on May 30, 2020. She was born on August 13, 1941 in Fremont, MI., and was one of several children of Franklin & Edith (Davis) Tinkham. Wilma was raised in Hesperia, MI. and graduated from Hesperia High School in 1960. She was always a caregiver and took care of others when they were sick. She especially enjoyed taking care of her grandchildren, and she enjoyed cooking. Wilma is survived by her husband, Robert Ball of White Cloud; her 4 children, all of White Cloud: David (Diane) Stockwell, Donn (Shannon) Shafer, Tammy Provenzano, & Carla Ball; 11 grandchildren: Heather Stockwell, Joshua (Amy) Stockwell, Shana (Matthew) Zeestraten, Jennifer (John) Borgman, Laura Shafer, Megan Russell, Carl Ball, Joseph Shafer, Jared Hon, Trevor Hon, & Kiara Witte; and 18 great grandchildren. She is also survived by 4 sisters & 1 brother: Ann Campbell, Mary Jane Rossman, her twin sister Wanda (Robert) Kakoczki, Wayne Tinkham, Emery (Betsy) Tinkham; and by many nieces & nephews. Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; by her brothers & sisters: Mernard Tinkham, Olive Hettmansperger, Donna Hettmansperger; Franklin Tinkham, Paul Tinkham, Dan Tinkham, Harry Tinkham, & Donald Tinkham; and by several brothers-in-law & sisters-in-law. A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at Sherman Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given to Spectrum Health Hospice, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. Mr. George “Georgie” Joseph Golembeski, age 85 of Fremont, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2020 at his home. He was born on August 18, 1934 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Edmund & Helen (Konwiniski) Golembeski. George was a US Navy Veteran of the Korean War, and a US Coast Guard Veteran of the Vietnam Era. He had been a special delivery driver for the US Postal Service. George had always been very involved and supportive with his girls. He went to every one of their events until his health started to fail. He loved watching them play sports, his favorite was softball, and he attended as many games as he could. Everyone on the teams called him grandpa. He was a soft spoken, kind, loving man. He loved sports, and his princess Sophie. He is survived by his wife, Carmen (Martin-Gomez) Golembeski, who he married on September 28, 1967; daughter, Remedios “Rayme” (Rich Betz) Supernaw; son, Juan Golembeski; granddaughters: Megan Supernaw, Mckenze (Matthew TerVeer) Supernaw TerVeer; great granddaughter, Harlyn Rae TerVeer; and beloved dog Sophie. George was preceded in death by his brothers, Richard & Edmund. The family will be having a private celebration of his life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given to the Fremont Softball Team. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. Mr. Floyd Kenneth Buckowing, Jr., age 56 of Grand Rapids, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. He was born on September 1, 1963 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Floyd Kenneth & Patricia L. (McConnell) Buckowing. Floyd was a self employed independent contractor, and he was an avid outdoorsman. He is survived by his sisters & brothers: Terri Ellison, Lori (Brian) Holt, Kevin (Kim) Buckowing, Dawn Buckowing, John (Sherry) Buckowing. He is also survived by many nieces & nephews who he considered to be his kids. Floyd was preceded in death by his parents. Due to current restrictions related to COVID-19 concerning social distancing, there will be a visitation at the Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home from 4-8 PM on Thursday, July 2, 2020 with a limited amount of visitors being allowed in at a time. Masks are optional. Following the visitation there will be an informal gathering at the home of Kevin & Kim Buckowing, 7383 Center Street, Newaygo, Michigan 49337. There will be no funeral service and interment will be in Big Prairie-Everett Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given to the funeral home to help with expenses, or you can give at the GoFundMe page: Floyd Kenneth Buckowing Jr. Funeral Fund organized by Kenneth Spencer. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. Mrs. Frances E. Fox-Pyper, age 98 of Fremont, passed away on Saturday afternoon, June 27, 2020 at Pilgrim Manor in Grand Rapids. She was born on April 17, 1922 in Mount Pleasant, Michigan to Floyd & Alma (Kniffen) Crotser. She had been a telephone operator, and she had enjoyed working in the bakery at Bill’s Shop-N-Save in Fremont for several years. She had also been an active member of Croton Community Church, where she taught Sunday School, Children’s Church, and Bible School for many years. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Ron Fox and Andy Pyper. She was also preceded in death by her brother & sisters: Sam, Verda, Doris, Dorothy, Evelyn, & Helen. She is survived by 4 children: Linda (Curt) Jorgensen, Rachel (Cliff) Bonga, Janice (Bob) Hewitt, Dr. Mark (Jane) Fox; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, & great-great grandchildren; and by 2 sisters: Bea & Sally. Due to current restrictions related to COVID-19 concerning social distancing, a Graveside Service will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at Clark Cemetery in Fremont. Those attending are asked to bring their own lawn chair for seating, and masks are optional. Suggested Memorial: Pilgrim Manor. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. Daniel B. Ward (Bud), age 79 of Fremont, passed away on Saturday evening, June 27, 2020 at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial in Fremont, the city that he loved and where he spent most of his life. He was born on August 26, 1940 in Fremont, Michigan to Fred & Juanita (Wright) Ward. Dan had been a mechanic all of his life, and he had worked at the former Texaco Gas Station in Newaygo and at the former Pontiac Garage in Fremont. He had also been a truck driver for the Newaygo County Road Commission, and had done custodial and maintenance work for St Michael Catholic Church in Brunswick. In 2002 he retired from Fremont Public Schools, where he made deliveries within the school district. Dan was a big John Wayne fan, he loved to hunt, and he enjoyed opening & closing the Big Bay Health Camp for special needs children in Marquette, Michigan each year with his friends. He loved spending time with his family, and was always there for his family & friends. Dan is survived by his wife of 52 ¾ years, Judith (Schuman) Ward, who he married on October 26, 1967; by 8 children: Maria (Phil) Bouma, Teresa DeMull, Nancy Hills, Donald (Robin) Mills, Donna (Jim) Zeldenrust, Juanita Zimmerman, Lisa (Stan) Deur, Dan (Malinda) Ward; numerous grandchildren & many great grandchildren; sisters & brother: Pat Fedore, Jeri (Larry) Esakson, Diana Johnson, Rita Vaughn, Robert (Debra) Ward; and by many nieces & nephews. Dan was preceded in death by his parents; by an infant daughter, Susan; and by his sister, Carol Fuller. Due to current restrictions related to COVID-19 concerning social distancing, a Private Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at All Saints Catholic Church in Fremont with Fr. Pete Schafer as Celebrant. You can watch the service live-stream on the Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home facebook page at 11:00 AM on Wednesday. Interment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Fremont. Suggested Memorial: All Saints Catholic Church. You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com. Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont. |