Colon C. "Coke Billinghurst

11/14/1933 - 11/18/2025

Colon Christopher Billinghurst, affectionately known as "Coke," passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, at Poppen House, just four days after celebrating his 92nd birthday.
Coke was born in Muskegon, Michigan, on November 14, 1933, to Jay Augustus and Anne Funk Billinghurst. He came from a family with deep roots in the Muskegon community. His grandfather, C.C. Billinghurst, was one of Muskegon's early settlers, arriving in 1867. C.C. Billinghurst later retired as President of the National Lumberman's Bank, leaving a legacy of community involvement and leadership that continued through the generations.
Coke attended North Muskegon High School and went on to further his education at Michigan State University. His academic pursuits were interrupted when he was drafted into the military during the Korean War. He was stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where he served his country with dedication before returning home to Muskegon.
After completing his military service, Coke returned to his hometown, where he met the love of his life, Peggy Seifers. Their union was a lasting one, and they were married for nearly seventy years. Together, they raised a loving family, blessed with four children, eight grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren.
Coke began his career at Teledyne Continental Motors, where he served as Director of Purchasing. His leadership extended to his role as President of the West Michigan Purchasing Association. Demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit, Coke later founded Grand Industries, Inc. in Grand Haven, Michigan. The company has remained a vibrant family business for over forty years, with his sons and grandson carrying on his legacy into a third generation.
Coke was passionate about outdoor activities, particularly fishing and duck hunting. He took on leadership roles as President of Muskegon Sports Fisherman and was a Life Sponsor of Ducks Unlimited. He took great pride in maintaining a pristine yard and was a dedicated supporter of the Michigan State Spartans, rarely missing football or basketball games and always keeping track of team statistics. He was also an enthusiastic Detroit Tigers fan and eagerly anticipated every game. Upon retirement, Coke found great joy in spending his winters at his home in the Fort Lauderdale area, where he and Peg formed many new and lasting friendships.
Coke will be missed dearly by his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Peg, of North Muskegon. He also leaves behind their children: Greg (Nancy) Billinghurst of Lake Mills, Wisconsin; Carolyn (Carol Bresler) of Washington, D.C.; Brad (Becky) Billinghurst of Norton Shores; and Dave (Mardi) Billinghurst of Spring Lake. He is also survived by his niece, Susanne (David) Lodge of Woodstock, Vermont. In addition to his parents, Coke was preceded in death by his sister, Anne Billinghurst, and his brother, Jay A. "Sonny" Billinghurst, Jr.
A Celebration of Life for Coke will be held 2-4 PM Saturday, December 13, 2025 at The Lee Family Center of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. Memorial Contributions can be made in Coke's honor to St Paul's Episcopal Church, Harbor Hospice Foundation, or The S. S. Milwaukee Clipper Preservation, Inc. Sign the online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com