Charlie Postma

CHARLIE POSTMA JUN 17, 1953 - DEC 20, 2010 Charlie passed away at Modesto Kaiser Hospital due to complications from multiple sclerosis (MS). He was surrounded and comforted by his loving family and many dear family friends who helped through these last difficult days. Charlie's life may have been short in years, but long in quality. Charlie was born in Picton, Canada after his family had emigrated from Holland. The family then emigrated to Southern CA when Charlie was about 1 1/2 years old. Charlie grew up in Artesia, attended schools there and then in 1972 relocated to Oakdale, CA to help his parents start their dairy. After his parents sold their dairy he worked for the Ed Tilma family dairy and eventually for his cousin Pete Postma's dairy. Charlie and Diana were married in 1988, and had many happy years together while working and living on the Postma dairy on Albers Rd. In 1998, Charlie started his own lawn care business, Organic Landscape Maintenance, which he operated for 8 years. He enjoyed his work and appreciated his loyal customers. When his MS progressed in 2006, he discontinued the business, and spent his days caring for their home, gardening, bee keeping and cooking delicious meals. Charlie's passions were his plants, gardening, fishing with his brother Jim, and scuba diving in Mexico. Charlie is survived by his wife Diana, his faithful dog Cayce and 6 siblings: Jo Mulder (Duane) of Santa Rosa, Bill (Eva) of Anaheim, John (David) of Cloverdale, Ed (Akke) of Holland, Jane Erro (Pat) of Oakdale, Jim Postma of Oakdale, and nine nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents Nies and Anna Postma and his youngest brother Ted. A special thank you to his mother-in-law Madonna Opela-Searcy, sister-in-law Debbie Opela-Crume, nephew Adam Erro (with whom he shares a birthday) Tami Postma, Jon & Amie Postma, LeeAna Postma and of course sweet Dana Postma for all their comfort and care during Charlie's final days. A celebration of Charlie's life will be held on January 15, 2011 in Oakdale, CA. Memorial Donations can be sent to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Northern Calif. Chapter, 1700 Owens Street, Suite 190, San Francisco, CA 94158 designated for Charlie's Angels MS Walk Team, or to the Commemorative Giving Program for Monterey Bay Aquarium, 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940. One of Charlie's favorite quotes: When one door closes another one opens.'' www.modbee.com/obituaries