John Balkema Obituary
The memory of John Balkema (Kalamazoo, Michigan), who passed away on May 16, 2024 at the age of 88, will forever remain in the hearts of those touched by this precious presence in their lives. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
He was predeceased by: his parents, Rudolphus Balkema and Gertrude Balkema (Takens); his significant other Dorothy (Bouma); and his siblings, Pete, Louwina, Henry, Jennie, Joe, Lena, Bertha and Ralph.
He is survived by: his children, Jeff Balkema (Rhonda), Tom Balkema (Kathy) and Susan Mejeur; his grandchildren, Kimberly Morse, Kristin Balkema, Josh Newhouse (Susan), Ben Newhouse (Emily), Nicole Lane, Abigaiel Dalke (Brandon), Elizabeth Schlott (Brenden), Matthew Balkema (Jessica), Tyler Mejeur, Jonathan Mejeur and Hannah Mejeur; his great grandchildren, Ana Morse, Harrison Lane, Isabel Lane, Cameron Newhouse, Madelyn Newhouse, Miles Newhouse, Connor Riddle, Brielle Dalke, James Schlott and Walker Balkema; and his sister Grace Bruining (Bernard). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Centrica Care Navigators, Park Village Pines, or Alternatives of Kalamazoo.
