Garrett Groenewold

On September 18, 2023 Garrett Groenewold went into the arms of his beloved Lord and Savior.  He was born on September 12, 1934 in Bedum, The Netherlands. The son of Jacob and Klaaske (Tamminga) Groenewold. He was one of 3 brothers and 1 sister. His name was originally spelled Gerrit but he changed the spelling when becoming a US citizen in 1974.

In 1959 he married Wilma Oosterhuis and they immigrated to the United States in 1964 with their 2 children Karin and Rob.

Garrett was a hard worker. Often working 3 jobs so the family could visit the Netherlands. He was a welder for many years at Dunkley Company. The family also were the custodians at Second Christian Reformed Church for many years.

Garrett and Wilma spent wonderful times with their close friends Bill and Katherine Pestoor. Being on a bowling team, camping and many trips together are great memories.

Garrett always liked going on day driving trips and always counted down the days when they could travel up North. He loved going to the Soo Locks and watching the large ships.

He was a member of Second Christian Reformed Church. A man of quiet faith. He was a faithful volunteer at Loaves and Fishes and Second Impressions.

He loved his family so much. He was immensely proud of all his grandchildren. Garrett loved going to their sporting events, band and choir concerts. He loved music and played his cornet often at home and a few times at a wedding and with the church choir.

He was the “go-to” person when something needed to be fixed. He could often figure out a way to fix things, even when professionals couldn’t.

Garrett was proceeded in death by his father, Jacob; mother Klaaske; brothers Geert, Henk, Willem; sister Ely. He is survived by his wife, Wilma; children Karin (Tim) Izenbaard, Rob (Sharon) Groenewold. & grandchildren Nicole (Kevin) Sampson, Danielle (Craig) Lackie, Matthew (Melissa) Izenbaard, Courtney (David) Knewston, Kaylee (Tyler) Flieman, Garrett Groenewold, Brittney (Quinten) Steenwyck. Great-Grandchildren Olivia and Max Sampson, Patrick and Erin Lackie, Addie Grace and Charlotte Izenbaard, Elliott Flieman.

A special thank you to Katrice from Centrica, Bronson Hospital MICU, EMCU and Rose Arbor for the wonderful care they provided for Garrett. He celebrated his birthday at Bronson and all the staff made him feel very special. They were witnesses to the great love Garrett and Wilma had for each other and their strong faith. A few nurses were even taught some Dutch love words!

A funeral service will be held Friday September 22, 2023 at 11am at Second Christian Reformed Church. 3015 Nichols Rd Kalamazoo, MI 49004 where family will greet friends from 10-11am before the service. A light luncheon will follow. Garrett will be laid to rest privately at Mt. Everest on Drake Road.

In lieu of flowers please consider a gift to Loaves and Fishes or Second Impressions. To view Garrett's personalized webpage please visit https://www.langelands.com