May God bless you and your...
Sure miss you, but Family Service Agency continues the mission!
Charles P Tommasulo
December 30, 2024 | Work
Flint, Michigan
Dec 1, 1926 – Jan 1, 2014 (Age 87)
Eugene (Gene)Talsma, 87, of Flint, Michigan, died surrounded by his children on January 1, 2014, from complications of a stroke. Gene was born December 1, 1926, in Borculo, Michigan, to Jennie and Gerrit Talsma. He was preceded in death by his wife Elsie Talsma in 1997, as well as his brother Harvey and sister Greta Goodyke. He is survived by his children, Tracy Nykamp (Tom) of Grand Rapids, Sam Talsma (Fran) of Ann Arbor, and Susan Popescu (Chris) of Romeo. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Tim (Lauren), Kelsey and Michael Nykamp, Libby, Isabel and Sam Talsma and Stefan Popescu.
Gene retired as the Director of Genesee County Family Services in 1991 but remained engaged with his colleagues until his death. Gene embraced the notion "dog is man's best friend," and demonstrated his love for Pomeranians and his daughter Susan by accompanying her to many dog shows. Gene never stepped on a lawn he didn't want to mow, or a snowy driveway that couldn't benefit from his shovel. His voracious appetite for current events, reading every newspaper he could get his hands on, was outmatched only by his insatiable interest in his grandchildren's many activities and accomplishments. Gene will be missed for his entertaining stories, warm smile, and unending willingness to lend a hand when needed. He leaves a legacy of kindness for all who knew him.
A celebration of Gene's life will be held at the Family Service Agency in Flint in the near future, details forthcoming. Your condolences may be shared with the family at swartzfuneralhomeinc.com.
Sure miss you, but Family Service Agency continues the mission!
Charles P Tommasulo
December 30, 2024 | Work
I first came to know your dad when I did my field placement at Family Service in 1968. In 1970 he and your mother came to my wedding in northern Michigan and I have been in touch with your dad throughout the years. Periodically he would send me something I wrote back when I was working for him or in school. Over the years I have had many, many bosses, and I can say that Mr. T. was the best! He truly was my mentor for being a boss myself. He will always hold a very special place in my...
March 19, 2014
It has been several years since I last saw Gene. I served on the Family Services Agency Board in the 1980's & 1990's which I greatly enjoyed. He was an inspirational director. Sorry for your loss.
January 08, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. I know he will be dearly missed by all he touched. I used to watch him watch Suzy handle dogs. He had so much love in his eyes. I was drawn to meet him. What a kind gentle soul he was. You were truly blessed to have him in as your Dad.
Kimberly Nowland
January 05, 2014 | Belleville, MI
Please accept my deepest sympathy and condolences.
Mr. Flo
Bob Florkowski
January 05, 2014 | Flushing, MI
Sue, I am so sorry for your loss. For a time, it seemed like I'd run into your Dad all the time. At the grocery store or at the book store, we always had a nice conversation. He was such a kind & gentle man. He always had a story to tell and I always enjoyed listening.
Karen Bishop
January 05, 2014 | Flint, MI
A visionary executive, compassionate boss and loyal, trustworthy friend whose influence will be remembered by those who knew him.
Jim Smith
January 05, 2014 | Clare, MI
Gene was a very good man and a true pioneer. He will be missed every day. I have a lifetime of great memories of Gene. My condolences to the family.
Ronnie Detrich
January 05, 2014 | Oakland, CA
Gene - Your wit and wisdom will be missed. Thanks for mentoring me, I hope I past muster.
Charles Tommasulo
January 05, 2014 | Flushing, MI