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Frank Boonstra Obituary
He leaves behind his wife Barbara, children Kate and Chad Dykema, Patrick and Renae Boonstra, Joshua and Shana VerHelst, Rebekah and Chris Praamsma, Jason and Jessica VerHelst, eleven grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Frank grew up in Zeeland and graduated from Ferris State University with a pharmacy degree. He had a successful career in sales for CIBA-Geigy, then returned to work in South Haven and Fennville as a pharmacist. Frank had a love for people and a smile that showed this. He delighted in taking care of his customers. Frank shared his life long love for the outdoors taking family and youth on camping and hiking trips. He enjoyed photography, cooking, gardening and travel throughout his life. Frank's great adventure was sailing and living aboard the Daisy B with Barb; first in the Great Lakes, then to the east coast, down the intracoastal to Florida and across to the Bahamas.
When grandchildren arrived he settled into summers in Holland and winters in Venice, ultimately making his home in Venice, FL. There Frank worked, played and volunteered.
We give thanks to Tidewell Hospice for their expert care. The family expresses gratitude to all staff at Brookdale Palmer Ranch Assisted Living in Sarasota, FL for the care and affection they gave Frank and his beloved dog, Scooter. A memorial service will take place later this year in Zeeland, Michigan.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Frank Boonstra
Fred and Charlotte Leaske
March 15, 2024
Love memories of Frank, our neighbor and friend when we lived in Waukazoo Woods where our three children grew up.
Mary Van Koevering Stryker
April 7, 2021
He was a good friend in High School and at Second Reformed Church. Lots of laughs!
March 29, 2021
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Our sympathy is with you and your family.
Fred and Char Leaske
March 27, 2021
As neighboring families we felt we knew the Boonstra family well. Kate and Patrick are continuing in the talents and personality traits of their parents-lives on in them. As for neighboring—the annual 4th of July parade around ouw Waukazoo Woods block and beyond stands out; our Kristen, Susan and William marched some years banged sticks, carried flags, rode bikes or skateboards.
Our daughters were babysitters and took piano lessons. As couple friends, Fred and I were part of dinner parties; music could always be heard-piano or stereo. What a happy, bustling household.
Our heartfelt love and concern is for Frank’s dear children, grandchildren and Barb. A loving dad/husband centered them for many years. Aren’t you glad you offered all the love/care you felt for him!
Fred and Charlotte Leaske
March 26, 2021
After 25+years of being close neighbors in proximity and relationship with Frank and his family, life has moved on. How we treasure memories of steady, out-going-lovable Frank upon learning of his death for his spirit lives on. We offer our heartfelt love and sympathy to his much-loved family.
Peggy Benko
March 23, 2021
Barb,
Glenn and I were so sorry to hear about Frank's passing. It sure as been a long time since we have seen both of you you. But when we learned about Frank it struck a cord and brought back memories to both of us. Our sympathy is with you and your family.
Peggy Benko
Sue Machiela
March 23, 2021
Barb and family, Saddened to hear of Frank's passing. He was always such an energetic , full of life guy.
I will always have sweet memories of him calling on the office and chatting.
Linda Boerman
March 21, 2021
Barb you are in my thoughts and prayers. It´s been a long time since we talked in Randy´s office.
Linda Becksfort Rycenga
March 21, 2021
Kate and family, I´m so sorry to hear of Frank´s passing. He always brought a smile wherever he went! I remember working with him at Dykstras a couple times when someone was on vacation. Smart man! Full of joy and a huge heart! Love and prayers for all of you as you navigate through this new normal.
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