Lee Balkema

BALKEMA, MR. LEE R. "ROGER" Husband of Jackie Fruitport Mr. Lee Roger Balkema, age 78, passed away Friday evening, May 17, 2013, at Harbor Hospice Poppen Residence. Roger was born September 30, 1934, in Muskegon to Elmer and Hazel (Fischer) Balkema. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. On January 1, 1981, Roger married the former Jacquelyn Brown in Muskegon and she survives him. He worked as a salesperson at Alcatel for 20 years prior to his retirement. Roger enjoyed golfing and loved spending time with his family. ' Papa' will be missed by his grandchildren as he attended all their events throughout the years. In addition to his wife of 32 years, Jackie, Roger is survived by his children, Laurett L. Frolich, Steven (Susan) Schuitema, Kevin (Sharon) Schuitema, Russell F. (Lori) Schuitema, Lori B. (Mark) Kling, and Sherri (Jim) VanderWier; 15 grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; a brother, D. (David) Allan (Carol) Balkema; a sister, Bette Ann Wierstra; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Brett l. Balkema; and a daughter, Deborah L. Griffen. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 11:00 AM Friday, May 24, 2013 at The Lee Chapel 6291 S. Harvey St. 231-798-1100 With Chaplin Marilyn Rottschafer officiating, and Full Military Rites afforded under the auspices of V.F.W. Muskegon County Council. VISITATION will be Thursday evening from 6-8 PM. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS may be made to Harbor Hospice. Share memories with the family at their on line guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.