David Hoogerhyde

A strong, independent, and hardworking man, David Hoogerhyde lived each day to the fullest while enjoying every moment he was given. He was very outgoing with a good sense of humor and a fun-loving side, too. A devoted husband and loving father, David was blessed to witness his family tree blossom to include not only children, but grandchildren and great-grandchildren, too, and it was when surrounded by his loved ones that he was truly happy. As one who loved being social he was actively involved in various clubs throughout his community, making numerous friends along the way. David leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that will be forever treasured by all who were blessed to know and love him.

The Roaring Twenties brought us some of the most vibrant days we have experienced as a nation. Jazz music, the Charleston, and Broadway shows were hot while baseball legends Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb helped make the sport America’s favorite pastime. Amidst this exciting time was the year 1925 that was filled with great celebration for a young family from Grand Rapids, Michigan, as they were pleased to announce the birth of their healthy baby boy on January 19th. David John was the second of nine children born to his parents, Martin and Gertrude (Wietsma) Hoogerhyde, and he was raised in the family home alongside his siblings, Annebelle, Ruth, Wayne, John, Jerry, Terry, Joy, and Dolores.

In many ways David experienced an upbringing that was typical for the youth of his generation. He began working at a young age as he had his own huckster route peddling produce for his grandfather. David was known for getting into his fair share of mischief such as the time he led a revolt in elementary school when they sat outside demanding a longer recess. A student at local schools, he attended Oakleigh Junior High and then Union High School where he enjoyed playing basketball. David also did some fishing.

Before he completed high school, David joined the Navy during the days of WWII in the early forties. He spent time aboard the USS Brooklyn, but when it later hit a mine he ended up breaking his leg during the explosion. David also served on the USS Boxer and was off the coast of both Normandy and Anzio during the respective battles. For the rest of his life he was always proud to have served his country during this time of great need.

With his military duties fulfilled, David returned to Grand Rapids where he went back to work for his grandfather in the produce business. Not to be forgotten during this time was David’s reintroduction to the young woman with whom he would share a lifetime of love. Her name was Catherine Snook, and they had known each other during earlier days. After dating for a time the sweethearts were married and eventually settled on Taft Avenue. David and Catherine later moved into a house on Valley, which was the place he called home for nearly 58 years. Together David and Catherine welcomed six children into their hearts and home throughout an 11 year period.

A busy family man, David decided to find work that would allow him to be home more often. He ended up working with Masselink Brothers Trucking where he remained for over 30 years. Many of David’s runs were within Michigan, and while they may have been long days he was typically home with the family every night. As a father David was strict in the early days, but he seemed to mellow a bit with each child. The Hoogerhydes enjoyed having fun together including on Sundays for picnics at Long Lake or Half Moon Lake. For a few years David and his family also enjoyed renting cottages in Lake City. Through the years he and his brother also tried their hands at a few other businesses including a wood cutting business as well as renting out some houses. In everything he did, David took his role as provider for his family very seriously.

With his leisure time David was a man of many interests. He was very social and was greatly involved with the VFW Post 830 where he served in a number of positions including post commander and district 8 commander. Since he and Catherine also enjoyed being social as a couple they belonged to the Boat and Canoe Club and later the Casino Club, and they were on bowling leagues as well. David loved to talk and socialize, and it was amazing how he always seemed to have a story to share. He was also continually on the lookout for someone to share jests with, too. For many years David and Catherine loved heading to Florida during the cold Michigan winters. He was also a loyal Tigers and Lions fan.

In 1985 David was deeply saddened with the death of his beloved wife. Being independent by nature, he learned the household tasks that he hadn't had a reason to pay much attention to before. David enjoyed staying busy during his retirement years including spending more time at the clubs. He also liked the structure that daily routines provided. The last year of his life was a difficult one as he became highly dependent on others to help him and also to get him where he needed to go.

All who knew David Hoogerhyde would agree that he was truly one of a kind. He balanced being stern with being kindhearted, being hardworking with being fun-loving. David was the sort of person who wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, and when he had made up his mind there was no convincing him otherwise. A lifelong resident of the community he loved being a part of, he was the sort of person whom everyone seemed to know. David will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Mr. David J. Hoogerhyde, age 89 of Grand Rapids, passed away September 3, 2014. David proudly served in the Navy during World War II. He then was a member of VFW Post 830 for many years where he served in various positions including as the 8th District Commander. David was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine; son, Kenneth; sisters Annebelle Darby and Ruth Lintjer; and brother, Wayne Hoogerhyde. Dave is survived by his children Don & Mary Hoogerhyde; Linda & Rich Kanski, Marty and Kathy Hoogerhyde, Susan & William Ward, Bill and Sharry Hoogerhyde; grandchildren Ross (Robin) Hoogerhyde, David (Michelle) Kanski, Shawn (Peter) Campbell, Christopher (Jill) Hoogerhyde, Steven Hoogerhyde, Ryan Ward, Catherine (Zach) Foley, Donald and Kelsey Ward, Carrie (Brandon) Clark and Billy Hoogerhyde; 8 great grandchildren; brothers and sisters John & Mary Hoogerhyde, Jerry Hoogerhyde, Terry Hoogerhyde, Joy & Dale Bush, Dolores & Bud Postema; sister-in-law Jodi Hoogerhyde and many nieces and nephews. The service to remember and celebrate his life will be held on Monday, September 8 at 10:30 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW where friends may visit with his family on Sunday from 3-6 PM. For those who wish, memorial contributions to either the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer's Association are appreciated. To read more about Dave's life, to share a memory or sign the guestbook, visit www.lifestorynet.com