Richard A. Hamelink Obituary
In accordance with Richard's wish, cremation will take place and private family remembrances will be held. The family wishes to thank the staff at The Villa of Borgess Place, for the love and care they showed to Richard in his final days. Memorial donations may be made to the Animal Rescue Project, c/o the funeral home.
Age 86, of Kalamazoo, passed away at The Villa of Borgess Place on December 14, 2024, with his wife by his side. He was born in Kalamazoo on March 5, 1938, the son of the late Derk and Sadie (Baas) Hamelink. Richard grew up in Kalamazoo, graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School and would remain a lifelong resident. Richard was kind, gentle and loving. His larger-than-life frame was only equaled by his likable personality and wonderful sense of humor; and he rarely met a stranger who did not become a friend. On January 31, 1958, he married the love of his life Nancy (Zomer) Hamelink who he had met while singing in the church choir together. They fell in love and remained at each other's side for nearly sixty-seven years. Together they raised two children and worked hard to provide a home where all were made to feel welcome. Richard was employed in the Printing Services Department at Western Michigan University for forty-four years. Richard was a loyal Bronco fan and seldom missed a game at Waldo Stadium. He was also very athletic and was on several bowling and golf leagues. Richard enjoyed working with model airplanes, taking trips to the casino, playing cards, camping trips to northern Michigan and spending sunny days at their home on Pine Lake. He loved animals, especially his cat "Annie". Above all Richard loved his family. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather whose warm smile and gentle embrace will be missed. Richard is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; daughter, Cheryl (Stan) Siwik; daughter-in-law, Jeannie Hamelink; grandchildren, Steven, Jessica, Whitney, Erin, Timothy, Kyle, Kimberly , Josh, Veronica, Carter and Drew; six great-grandchildren; beloved brothers-in-law, Sam (Dawn) Zomer and John (Judi) Zomer; lifelong friends, Rachel Hiscock, Ron and Jan Baas; special cousin who was like a daughter, Terri Culver; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. In 2023, Richard was preceded in passing by his son, Timothy Hamelink.
