Marilyn J. Ufkes Obituary
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Sunday, September 29, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home, 917 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo. Marilyn will be laid to rest at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to charity of one's choice, in c/o the funeral home.
Age 88, passed away Friday night, September 20, 2024. Marilyn was born in Portage, MI, on June 9, 1936, the daughter of Claus and Nellie (Folkersma) Terpstra. On November 26, 1954, she married John Ufkes, who survives her. Marilyn worked for over thirty years as a Receptionist in local medical offices. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Kalamazoo. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading and cross stitching. There was nothing more important to her than spending time with her children and grandchildren. Marilyn and John instilled the love of music in her children. She loved gospel music and played the piano. Her children, all musicians, have memories of her being present for many of their performances. Besides her husband, Marilyn is survived by her children, Jill Collins of Orlando, FL, Timothy (Kylie) Ufkes of Saugatuck, Thomas (Lisa) Ufkes of Kalamazoo, and Todd (Shannon) Ufkes of Marshall; eight grandchildren; three great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Carol Terpstra; several nieces and nephews; and many, many friends. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; a brother Roger Terpstra; a sister, Evelyn Grofvert.
