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Randolph Community Funeral Home - Randolph

208 S High St.

Randolph, Wisconsin

Jeremy Geertsma Obituary

Geertsma, Jeremy D.

Jeremy Dean Geertsma, 36 of Plymouth, MI, and formerly of Randolph, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 27 2013, in Columbia County following an unexplained snowmobile accident, with family at his side.

Jeremy was born on September 20, 1977, in Beaver Dam, the son of Robert and Kathleen (Schneiter) Geetsma. He attended Randolph Schools, graduating from Randolph High School in 1996. Jeremy was an integral part of the school's first state championship in boys basketball in 1996. Jeremy graduated from the DeVry Institute of Technology in Business Operations in Chicago, where he met his best friend, Morley Rushford, who treated him like a brother. After college he was employed with AIT Worldwide Logistics, in Chicago. For the past eleven years, Jeremy worked for Expeditors International, beginning in Chicago. Because of his personality and business skills he was given the opportunity to relocate to Detroit, Michigan to manage a new division, where he enjoyed his "Michigan" family. He was recently promoted to District Sales Manager.

Jeremy was a kind, enthusiastic and very generous man. He always looked upon things in a positive manner. Jeremy was often heard to say, "I just had the best day ever." He was a hard worker and showed great passion for his career. Jeremy had the unique ability to solve any problems that would arise. He was an avid golfer, Green Bay Packer fan, and loved to travel. In September, he met the love of his life, Amanda Musgrave.

Jeremy is survived by his parents, Robert Geertsma and his stepmother, Judy of Randolph; Kathy Geertsma and her special friend, Mark, of Randolph; his sister, Melissa Geertsma and her fiancé, Tim Stephsen, of Waukesha; one stepbrother, Joe Mesner; two stepsisters, Jayme (Jeff) Westra, and Abby (Joel) Burmania; his nieces and nephews, Cole, Gracey and Cullen Westra, Alexa, Cade, and Drake Burmania; and uncles and aunts, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Jeremy was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Funeral Services will be held at 1 P.M. on Thursday, January 2, 2014, at First Reformed Church, 107 S. Winnebago Street, Friesland, with Pastor Randy Quade officiating. Burial will follow in the Randolph Cemetery.

Jeremy's family will receive relatives and friends at the church on Wednesday evening from 4 - 7 P.M. and on Thursday beginning at 11 until time of service.

A scholarship fund will be established in Jeremy's name at Randolph High School.

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Published by Fond du Lac Reporter on Dec. 31, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Jeremy Geertsma

Sponsored by Helen Kessler-Huffman.

57 Entries

Heather Ribich

December 23, 2024

Jeremy, your light lives on in my memories and reminds me of how to live. Love you

Helen KesslerHuffman

December 27, 2020

Well
Here we are another year Jeremy. And it’s just the same as it was every year before. Today is 12/27/2020
You wouldn’t believe what is going on in our world today. But today I am with your beautiful family in Wisconsin. And I will proudly be cheering on the Packers like I have done since you went to Heaven. I hope I have made you proud. Not a day goes by where you aren’t thought of or missed. By the way the Packers do play tonight and we need this win. GOPACKGO love you bro! Love, HBK

Helen KesslerHuffman

December 27, 2019

Today is December 27, 2019. And it just doesnt get any easier. But I know you are up there Jeremy having the best day ever! Watching over all of us! You would be very happy! The Packers have made it into the playoffs!!! Elle and I will be heading to Lambeau in January! GO PACK GO! We miss you buddy

Mike Wauldron

September 20, 2019

Happy Birthday JG! 1Call!

Mike Wauldron

September 20, 2018

Happy Birthday buddy! Miss you and will see u again.

Mike Wauldron

September 20, 2014

Happy Birthday Jeremy!

I miss you very much and think about you everyday. It's been a tough year without you for so many people. We all push ahead with the great memories that we shared with you. I learned so much from you and I apply it to my everyday life. Thank you for being a true friend, a great leader, and my mentor. Your death has brought so many changes to our lives. I promise you that as I move forward with my life that I will utilize all the great things I've learned from you. I will live life to the fullest and try my best to enjoy every day on this earth. Miss you buddy!

Helen Kessler-Huffman

July 21, 2014

Dear JG, We just had your golf outing Saturday July 19th. Raising over $25,000 for the JG scholarship foundation. I know you were with us and saw the hundreds of people gathered in your honor. I'm having a bad day today and you are always on my mind. The tears won't stop flowing today for some reason. We had a great time celebrating for you and I guess I just didn't want the celebration to end. Your family is amazing and awesome and we all have much fun when we are together. I love you dearly and can hear your silly laugh - he he he! I know you are in a better place for sure it's just hard not seeing you everyday!

Shelby Kessler

March 26, 2014

Uncle Jeremy,
I feel the need to write to you today. Tomorrow will be 3 months since you have been gone. Z and I were talking about you last night and it just still does not feel real for us. I don't know when it ever will. I think about you every single day but I know you know that. I hope you know that. You would know the right thing to say to me right now to get me to laugh. You always did and I will forever miss that. I love you.

January 27, 2014

JG,
I write this with a lump in my throat and a pain in my heart. I am confident you knew what you meant to me from day one. You had me from the get go. You were like the little brother I lost and did I tell you I really did not want a little brother. You were impossible for me not to love. I am sure you knew why we got along – I never said no to you!

Everyone has their special relationship with you and has things they enjoyed doing with you. I loved working with you, beside you; you made me proud. When you first moved to Detroit, I took you on the road at every opportunity. You were always so giving of your time and knowledge. Your desire to succeed was motivating. You earned my respect very quickly when I introduced you to “I won't name the customer” – she was super tough and you hung in there and had so much confidence I knew our team would win.

The launch of PTM was one of my two career highs. The thrill of the ride was scary and exciting with you. Because of this launch think of all the people we met and how many great friendships were formed.

Sharing time with you meant a lot to me; I am grateful and will always treasure the time we shared.

I miss you,JG.
Campbell

Dave Gawthrop

January 7, 2014

I also met Jeremy through our Monday night golf league and I always looked forward to his attitude and sense of humor! He tended to end his sentences with a smile and a laugh no matter how the golf was going. We all appreciated his presence in the league! A very good guy that will be missed but not forgotten.

God Bless The Family...

Sara Thornton

January 5, 2014

Jeremy. I only met you a couple of times however you seemed such a fun guy to be with and when I needed help you were there for me and for that I will be extremely grateful. Such tragic news for a young man. Thinking of you and your family at this sad time RIP Jeremy

Jennifer Ohm

January 3, 2014

I worked with Jeremy while he was part of our Chicago office. Funny, smart, intelligent,successful man. It has been awhile since we last spoke but I wanted to pass on my deepest condolences to the Geertsma family, friends and EI family. Such an unbelievable story that I cannot stop thinking about, he will be deeply missed.

Steve Alsum

January 3, 2014

"Gertsy" was one of my closest friends and I'll miss him dearly. We became best friends in high school and throughout college. Over the years we went on 10 golf trips together, from Myrtle Beach to Las Vegas and many other destinations in between. He came to Jamaica to stand up in my wedding, and any time I wanted to plan a fun trip or weekend, his "count me in" response was status quo.

No matter how good or bad his golf game was, he always seemed to birdie the signature hole of whatever course we were playing, and then would let us hear about it the rest of the trip. He was somehow always on the winning team, and rules and teams were adjusted if he wasn't. What made him successful in life and his career also earned him a few bucks on the course.

Most of all I'll miss just hanging out chatting about work, life, sports, and any other topic we could think of. You attacked every day with a positive attitude and it's a trait I always admired and have tried to emulate.

Thanks for all the fun times and memories my friend. And I know whatever signature golf hole heaven has, you've already birdied it. RIP

Sonya Mckenzie

January 3, 2014

A very joyful individual always helpful to his colleagues and upbeat at all times. may his sould rest in peace.

Roger Moore

January 3, 2014

To Jeremy's Family,

I only knew Jeremy the past 3 years through our Monday night golf league. He was a welcome new member of our league. He brought so much to our league with his never-failing upbeat attitude and great sense of humor. He will be sadly missed. He is one of those guys that you always enjoyed being around. God Bless Jeremy and his family.

Craig Wilwerding

January 2, 2014

Jeremy's family,
I wanted to pass on my deepest condolences and prayers to you and the entire family. I worked with Jeremy in the past and especially over the past few months. He made such an impact on everyone that met him and dealt with him in any capacity. Kind, apprecitive and supportive to everyone he met. I am sorry for your loss. We will miss him greatly.

Marie Berner

January 2, 2014

To Jeremy's family,
You and Jeremy have been in my prayers since I heard.
I worked with Jeremy on several occassions. I was always blown away at how fun, smart and supportive he was. A memorable personality.
I am very sorry for your loss.

Cienna Brown

January 2, 2014

Sending heart-felt condolences to Geertsma family and friends. Jeremy had a unique spirit and vibrant soul, he taught me so much and I am grateful for the impact he made on us all at EI. He will never be forgotten, and though he will truly be missed...his spirit will live on forever...RIP

Sarah Prushi

January 2, 2014

I was so sorry to hear this news. Jeremy was the first person I met when I joined EI and always had a smile on his face. My sincere condolences to all his friends and family.

Lena Gwozdz

January 2, 2014

My deepest condolences to the family and friends for the loss of an amazing, talented and great guy.
Jeremy...you will be missed. RIP my friend.

Diane Winpisinger

January 2, 2014

We were all shocked to hear of Jeremy's passing. He was truly an asset to our EI family and he will be missed. Sending thoughts and prayers to the Geertsma family and I'm very sorry for your loss. He was one of a kind.

Dennis McCaffrey

January 2, 2014

My deepest condolences to the Geertsma family and all of Jeremy's friends & co-workers. I had the privilege of working with him as a provider for many years, always enjoyed spending time with him, he was a great guy and considered him a good friend in the industry.

I will keep the Geertsma Family, friends and co-workers in my prayers.

Joel Matanzas

January 2, 2014

My deepest sympathies to his family, I am truly glad I was blessed enough to meet such a great person.
"May your drives be long and straight,
May your putts be short and true,
and May there always be a bit of green grass under your feet."

Precious Anthony

January 1, 2014

I extend my condolences to the family. I used to tease J alot. My buddy. RIP.

Jean Butcher (Sacia)

January 1, 2014

Bob, Judy & family -
So sorry to hear of Jeremy's death. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you during this difficult time.

Shelby Kessler

January 1, 2014

My Uncle Jeremy,

You may have not actually been my uncle but you were a part of our family. My heart is truly broken, I don't want to believe its real. But everything happens for a reason, right? I will never forget the times we had together. The Michigan tailgates will never be the same with out you! I will miss your laugh the most I think. I can hear it now "hehehe" and it was contagious. I can not think of one time we were together and we were not laughing. Please watch over us from up there Gertsby. I will miss you forever! My deepest condolences go out to all the family and friends, may we all find peace in the loss of this great man.

Troy Croasmun

January 1, 2014

My sincerest sympathies to both his Michigan and Wisconsin families. As a business colleague of his, I met him in Chicago years ago and am left with a lot of good memories both in business and outside the office. He was a genuine guy that you could sit down with and then realize that 3 hours had gone by talking about business, music, cars, golf, football, BBQ, or homebrewed beer. As was stated in his obituary, I'd heard him say several times "I just had the best day of my life". As we make New Years Resolutions, I think we can get some ideas from his memory. I'm gonna miss ya buddy!

Joe O'Neill

January 1, 2014

I was shocked and saddened to hear the news about Jeremy. It is not often in this business that you meet someone as remarkable as Jeremy was. In many ways he has made an impression upon me and everyone else at our company that had contact with him. He will always be remembered by all of us.
Jeremy's family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.

With sincere sympathy,

Matt Syens

December 31, 2013

I had the privilege to know "Gertsy" for close to all my life. We shared all facets of life together, from childhood youth sports to college weekends with friends to recent golf trips. Gertsy was a true friend and will be deeply missed. Knowing he will not be at my next fantasy football draft or part of our next golf trip deeply saddens me.

His positive attitude was contagious. Taking money off Bob and James in a father – son golf match was the expected (and the norm). He would never back down from a friendly wager, which was FTW – fun to watch. Bob, Jeremy always thought the best of you, and couldn't wait to plan the next father-son golf trip for Father's Day, or a birthday, or a random next week Tuesday, whichever came first. He was a blessing to us all.

I think of Gertsy as more of a brother than a friend, and for that I am eternally grateful.

Ron Jenovai

December 31, 2013

I am in expedited sales and I have called on Jeremy for the last five years. I always enjoyed the visits and we had a great working relationship and we had each others trust. He was a friend as well.

I will miss him and really sorry for the loss to all the family.

Ron Jenovai

December 31, 2013

I am in expedited sales and I have called on Jeremy for over 5 years. He was a pleasure to work with and I always enjoyed the visits. He was a friend as well.
I will miss him and sorry for the his loss to all the family.

Renee Cooper

December 31, 2013

Im very happy to have had the opportunity to meet Jeremy, I didn't know him well, but we did always talk for a minute in the kitchen in the mornings at work. RIP

Tiffany Parson

December 31, 2013

I had the honor to work with Jeremy for the last 3 years and he was truly the life of the office..You will be severely missed but never forgotten, Rest in peace JG!

Ben Eidenschink

December 31, 2013

I had the pleasure to know Jeremy as a colleague and even more important as a good friend.
We both started in Detroit the same year and became friends very quickly.
We spend great time together which I will never forget.
He was such an amazing person which I will hardly miss.
Thank you Jeremy - Ruhe in Frieden mein Freund und möge Gott immer mit Dir sein. Dein Freund Ben

Leslie Holmes

December 30, 2013

I had the pleasure of knowing Jeremy the last few years as a customer of mine. However over those years he became more than just any other customer, he became a friend. Someone whom I had the privelege of the last couple years, including this year's Thanksgiving Day, of spending time with at what almost became our annual customer rivaly event - watching the Green Bay Packers play the Detroit Lions when they came to town. As others have said, his personality was one that beamed, one that made an impact on you the first time you met him and knew he was one of those people this world was blessed to have. My thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family, the friends whom will miss him - and his coworkers in Michigan whom I have never in my years seen such a tight knitt work group. Jeremy was a leader and a friend to all whom had the pleasure of knowing him. Rest in Peace.

Garry Tripp

December 30, 2013

It deeply saddens me to hear the tragic news. I will always remember the enthusiastically contagious atmosphere surrounding him in both his business and personal life. Jeremy genuinely enjoyed his love of sports and cars. My prayer go out to his family and friends.

Leanne Gasorski

December 30, 2013

Another ANGEL in Heaven looking down on us all. Jeremy will be truely missed by many. He was a very smart and knowledgeable man that I had the pleasure to work with and call my boss.

Tammy Plevinski

December 30, 2013

The world has has lost a truly wonderful man. I will miss him coming by every morning to say hello and ask how I am doing. He was and will always be an inspiration to us all. May God wrap his arms around his family and friends and bring them comfort in all the beautiful memories we have of him. He will live forever in each one of us. This is not goodbye this is farewell for now as we will see each other again someday, till then we take comfort in knowing you are watching over us all.

December 30, 2013

I have known Jeremy for many years. Our relationship has been classified in several different ways. My favorite, sister. The time spent between Jeremy calling to say he was heading out, until the time he would pull in at Mom and Dads was sometimes unbearable. Even if I could have made it, the kids could NEVER wait patiently. I love the fun gifts he would bring the kids(Christmas/Birthday or not). If anyone else would have brought hovering helicopters it would have been frowned upon. Not Jeremy, he'd just bring it anyhow. He'd bring good beer to share, make jumbalaya, and have the house erupting in laughter. I've never met a man who could create a fun game during football allowing the family to earn dollars. If you know Jeremy well it would not surprise you that there were several loopholes assisting in his victory. He would then make the "no whining rule" costing US a dollar if you complained. I'm feeling so fortunate right now that my children had a chance to REALLY get to know him in the last few years. I hope he lives a little bit inside each of them. I hope my boys use his wisdom and great decision making skills to advance themselves. I hope Gracey was paying attention to who he was so that when she is in a position in life, she finds a man who has similar character and goals. As for myself, I am heartbroken. I am working on getting out of that. Jeremy was never good at seeing my tears. I am working towards rejoice. I will miss calling/texting back and forth about business advice, having a teenage boy advice, and how to deal with 20 year old girls in a business setting(yes, he advised me on that). I will miss calling him when I think I am ready to give up and feel overwhelmed. His coaching skills are odd, but helpful. I will miss laughing about old days, and fun memories. The one single this I think I might miss most is his four alarm fire of a response every time I refer to him as Jer Bear. Man, he hated that, which is exactly why I did it(thank you Steven Alsum for the suggestion years ago). I will miss every single thing about that man. I look forward to meeting up with him someday in the future. In the meantime there will not be a day that will go by that my heart won't break with any thought, or remembrance. I love you, Jeremy Dean Geertsma.

John Cain

December 30, 2013

The world has lost such a special person.

Corey Kuhn

December 30, 2013

We are so saddened by the sudden loss. Jeremy was such an outstanding personality not only in a work situation but also in his personal life. He will be sadly missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in their time of mourning.

Southwestern Motor Transport, Inc.

Eric Breiteneder

December 30, 2013

I had the opportunity to meet and work with Jeremy for a brief weekend, but in that time became fully aware of his dedication and commitment to his work, family and friends. Heartfelt condolences to everyone who knew Jeremy.

Scott meinke

December 30, 2013

I had the oppurtunity to work with Jeremy at my many stops in transportation through the Grand Rapids Michigan area. He was a great person to work with and a great guy in general. He will truly be missed. My prayers go out to his family and friends in the sad time

Kathlene Van Wasshnova

December 30, 2013

I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Jeremy. I too will remember him as an extremely energetic man who lived life to the fullest. Treasure the memories! My prayers of comfort go to his beloved family and friends everywhere. Goodbye Jeremy for now.
Kathlene Van Wasshnova

Kerri Sykes

December 30, 2013

Watching Jeremy with his team was such a delight. He was always positive and knew exactly the right thing to make each person smile, if not laugh right out loud. He will be sorely missed. May prayers comfort all who were touched by him, but especially his family.

Phoebe Jones

December 29, 2013

Still in shock. Still in disbelief. Jeremy was thee most positive, driven, caring, full of life (and then some) individual. I'm confident that he touched the life of any and everyone he's ever met, whether it been 10 secs or 10 years. I was fortunate enough to work with him 2 years. In those 2 short years I've learned so much from him, both professionally and personally. I truly consider him a lifelong friend and he will always be in my heart. My deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. Rest peacefully J Gizzle...

Tai & Tony Gooden

December 29, 2013

Anyone who knew Jeremy knew of his extreme intelligence and his energetic personality. He will continue to live on in our hearts and will be deeply missed. We extend our deepest condolences to his family & pray for their strength during this difficult time.

Matt DeVries

December 29, 2013

It was an honor to have known Jeremy! There are too many memories and stories to list. I feel truly blessed to have those memories. Even though his positive energy has transcended to another place, we all will miss him greatly! Although this is difficult for me, I can't imagine the emotional toll this is taking on his family. May the Geertsma family find the strength to carry them through this difficult time. I can honestly say that I will NEVER forget him! Thanks for the many memories and smiles Jeremy. Until we meet again....goodbye my friend.

Alan Kindred

December 29, 2013

I had the opportunity to work with Jeremy @ expeditors. To be so young he definitely knew his job. I only worked for him for a short period of time but doing that time he became my friend and always led by example. Jeremy will truly be missed and I'm still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that he's gone. Jeremy you will live on in my heart for the rest of my days gear on earth.

Kathlene Van Wasshnova

December 29, 2013

I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Jeremy! I too join the others at Expeditors by saying what a great, fun loving gentle man he was. I can still see him swinging his EI badge as he walked by saying something witty. My heart goes out to Jeremy's family and friends. Treasure the memories, you are in my prayers to be comforted during this tragic time of immense loss. Kathlene Van Wasshnova

Lemont Pruitt

December 29, 2013

Myself and jeremy were roommates at one point in college and good friends I am stunned and saddened at this passing my heart goes out to his family immediate and extended

Debby Kingsbury

December 29, 2013

To Jeremy's Family,
I wish there were words that could express how my heart breaks for you. On behalf of Jeremy's Michigan Family, thank you for sharing him with us. We are going to miss him so much. He had a heart of gold. I would like to share one recent example; Expeditors DTW adopted 3 families this past Christmas through the Salvation Army. Jeremy was over the top generous, he bought the kids so many things. When I recognized and thanked Jeremy for his generosity he simply and as a matter of fact (with joy in his face) told me, "well I had to take of my man Todd" Todd being a 10 year old boy he had never met. Jeremy outfitted Todd with a skateboard, helmet, designer tennis shoes, wallet, many clothes...and so much more. All of his friends here have similar treasured memories. You should be very proud. I will never forget him.

Jessica Schultz

December 29, 2013

I went to school with Jeremy! Always the sweetest loving fun but shy guy in the group! He will be missed very much.

Yolanda Harrington

December 29, 2013

I had the pleasure of calling Jeremy my friend. He was an amazing man and I will cherish my memories of him forever. Jeremy came to Detroit and built a life and family here, and was deeply loved and admired by all of us. The Geertsma family raised an great man who had an amazing zest for life. I will never forget Jeremy.

Kim Caruso

December 29, 2013

It isn't possible to properly articulate the impact Jeremy had. Often it is said, when a person passes, that a light has gone out in the world. Jeremy wasn't just a light, he was a firework. He was a sunburst. He was simply the most genuine person I ever knew. His love for his friends and family was fierce and pure. I am at a loss without him. Jeremy was the brother I longed for. I hope his family knows how much he was loved by his Michigan family. I hope they know what a truly remarkable man he was. I love you JG and I will sys. -KC

Heather Ribich (Hundley)

December 29, 2013

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998

Helen Kessler Huffman

December 28, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeremy's family and anyone that knew him. He was one of my best friends. More like family actually. May Gods grace comfort all of us during this time and always. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched. He is now an angel watching over us all. Jeremy will seriously be missed. And he would want all of us to be happy and but of course that is difficult right now. He was kind hearted and genuinely cared about the well being of others. I'm blessed and proud to have known him. My love is with everyone.

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