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Roger W. Kolkema
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Roger Kolkema Obituary
Above all, Roger cherished Linda, his loving wife and constant companion of 59 years. Together they raised seven children, his greatest accomplishment: Matt (Tanya), Leanne, Jason, Joy (Jim) Alberts, Jamie (Brian) Lang, Nicole (Shane) Allis, and Michael. Roger was also a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren: Derek (Jenny), Colin (McKenzie), Logan, Max and Estella, Jacob and Silas Alberts, Amelia, Charlie and Henry Allis, and Thomas Lang; and four great-grandchildren: Emersyn, Kaden, Dylan and Mia, each of whom brought him endless pride and happiness.
A proud Marine, Roger honorably served his country before building a successful business, Kolkema Fabricating. He was a respected figure in the Fruitport community, where his spirit and contributions will continue to resonate for years to come.
Roger's sharp sense of humor was one of his greatest gifts. Always quick with a punchline, he found pleasure in making others laugh and brought humor to everyday moments. His legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will live on through his family and all who knew him.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Roger's life on Friday, September 5, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI, 49444. The Memorial Service will take place at 2:00 PM, with a time of visitation taking place an hour prior. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will be held at The Fruitport Eagles #3666, 3354 South Dangl Road, Fruitport, MI, 49444.
As Roger loved to say: "I'm Roger Kolkema, how do you like me so far?"
We love you, Roger, and will always remember you with a smile.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Harbor Hospice Foundation or The Wounded Warrior Project.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Roger Kolkema
Sep
5
Funeral services provided by:
Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services - The Lee Chapel6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444
Memories and Condolences
for Roger Kolkema
Sponsored by The Family.
2 Entries
wayne kahrs
Yesterday
I worked for Burdick & Jackson Labs., Inc. for 35 years and we had Roger fabricate, small "pallets" to be used with a 2-wheel cart. They were great and made handling 4-6 heavy boxes a breeze. I'm sure his creativity will be missed. Wayne Kahrs
Fletch Fox
Yesterday
Linda, please accept Shelly and my most sincere condolences for the loss of her husband. Roger, my old time neighbor, childhood friend, best man at my wife and my wedding, and God's one of a kind creation. Many memories with Roger growing up and throughout our adult years. Roger had a great sense of humor who could get you laughing with his numerous variable quirky statements. Definitely a good guy who will be missed by his wonderful family and friends who really knew him. Rest in peace old friend.
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