Benedict Dieleman Jr. Obituary
Benedict "Ben" Dieleman Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025, in Standish, MI. Born on May 18, 1948, in Grand Rapids, MI, Ben lived a vibrant life marked by devotion to his family and distinguished service to his country.
Ben's life journey began as a proud graduate of Grandville High School in 1966, which laid the foundation for his resilient work ethic. He honorably retired in 2001 from Delphi - General Motors, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and camaraderie. A proud Army veteran, Ben carried the principles of loyalty and perseverance throughout his life, influencing all those around him.
Ben married the love of his life, Ann Thomas, on June 10, 1989, and together they created a beautiful life in Standish, MI. He is fondly remembered by his cherished wife, Ann Dieleman, and family, which included children Bret, Wendy (Chris) Reid, Jamie (Kent) Kraatz, and Sasha Kosciolek (Scott). Ben's memory will continue to brighten the lives of his grandchildren, Zachary, Kayla, Dakota, Ariel, Ashmin, Andrew, Conner, Myles, Colin, and Ethan, as well as his great-grandchildren, Carter, Rowan, Teagen, Alex, and Amora, who brought him immense joy.
Ben will be lovingly recalled by his siblings Carol (Walt) Huderiko, Sally (Don) DeYoung, Nancy (Tom) Carpenter, Diana (John) Sweet, Deb Wiggins, and Scott Dieleman (Linda), many nieces and nephews, and his brother-in-law, Frank Haight. Ben was preceded in death by his parents Benedict Sr. and Marjorie (Dykstra) Dieleman, his stepmother Arlene, his sister Joan Haight, and his brother James.
Outside of family and work, Ben took pleasure in golf, bowling, and visiting the casino, where his gentle spirit and loving nature were always present. Those who knew Ben would describe him as the epitome of loving and gentle—a true testament to the remarkable person he was. Ben Dieleman Jr. leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and kindness, that will be deeply cherished and forever remembered.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025, at 2:00pm at Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home-Standish Chapel with Yvette Chisholm presiding. Friends and family may visit the chapel from 10:00am until time of service.