Ronald L. Terpstra, Sr.

Ronald L. Terpstra was an honest and hardworking man, dedicated to his family and loyal to his friends. He wasn't a man consumed by the material gains in life, but by the personal satisfaction of putting his family and friends first and doing the best he could with whatever task was at hand.

As World War II continued to occupy the world's attention in 1943, Clyde and Evelyn (Schievink) Terpstra of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were focusing their attentions on a much happier occasion, the birth of their son, Ronald, on March 1, 1943. Along with his brother Jerry and sister Sue, Ron grew up on the northwest side of Grand Rapids. He received his education at Walker Christian School and graduated from Unity Christian High School.

Like many young men of the time, Ron enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. A proud Veteran, Ron served as a former Commander of AMVETS Post 23, which gave support to other Veterans. He also served his community as a firefighter with the Walker Fire Department for many years. Ron was a man of many talents. He was an extremely gifted carpenter and mechanical drawer, and used such skills to build his own home. His children grew up in this home. Ron was also very knowledgeable in electrical and plumbing work, and never thought twice about lending a helping hand to family or friends in need of his skills. In his leisure time, Ron enjoyed traveling with his wife, Kathy, and watching all kinds of sporting events, particularly auto racing.

Ronald L. Terpstra, Sr., age 62, of Walker, MI, passed away February 22, 2006, after a courageous battle with cancer. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Evelyn (Schievink) Terpstra. He is survived by his wife, Kathy (Pemberton) Terpstra; children: Ronald L. (Nadine) Terpstra, Jr., Teri Alice Terpstra, and Lance Terpstra; grandchildren: Tyler, Delaney Terpstra; step-children: Michael Heisler, Kim Wiseman, Geraldo Herrara; brother, Jerry Terpstra (Barb Mooredyke); sister, Sue Bolt; niece and nephews: Brett, Eric Terpstra and Allyson Bolt.

Friends are invited to meet with Ron's family at the chapel of Rosedale Memorial Park on Saturday, February 25, from 1-2 p.m. According to Ron's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be at Rosedale Memorial Park. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you may make a memorial contribution to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans in Ron's memory. Ron was a hardworking and loyal member of his community for his entire life. He consistently showed his dedication to people, not just through the profession he chose, but the life he chose to lead. Most importantly, though, he was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather to the people who brought his life extraordinary joy. They will miss him greatly. Ron's family would like to thank everyone who cared for Ron during his illness.