Gerald William Stiemsma 83, passed away August 31, 2016 at his home in Dowling, MI. Gerald was born in Cambria, WI on January 10, 1933 to David and Meindertje (Mamie Van der Galien) Stiemsma. At age four, the family moved to the Delton, MI area to farm. In 1956 Gerald married Bernice Koser and moved to Battle Creek, MI. He attended William Street Christian School and Gull Lake Schools. Gerald served in the U.S. Army 3rd Armored Division from 1953 to 1955, stationed in Germany. Gerald worked as a brick mason for 45 years. Many structures across Michigan are the result of his pride in quality craftsmanship. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting with family and friends.
Gerald is survived by his wife, Bernice Stiemsma; sons, Bryan (Mary), Bruce (Julie), Bill (Dollie), and John (Nicki) Stiemsma; many grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; siblings, Sylvia DeVries and Dale (Mary) Stiemsma.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Alvin and Kenneth Stiemsma.
Visitation will be held at Bachman Hebble Funeral Service on Monday, September 5th from 5:00-8:00 PM. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 6th at 12:00 PM at Bachman Hebble Funeral Service with Rev. Larry Gorlitz of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church officiating. Burial will be at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Spectrum Health Hospice, Grand Rapids, MI.