Gerald Boerman ’50
Gerald Boerman ’50, 87, of Green Valley, Arizona, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017.
Jerry passed away peacefully at Northwest Hospital surrounded by many of his loved ones. Jerry was born in Grand Rapids, MI, to Rev. Jacob and Catherine Boerman. He was preceded in death by his dear wife of 62 years, Joyce M. Boerman (Dec. 26, 2016), his parents, Rev. Jacob and Catherine Boerman, his brother and sister-n-law, Dr. Walter and Betty Boerman, his younger sister, Gerita Haensel, his precious daughter, Marjorie Lynn, and his first-born granddaughter, Kristi (Jason Pridmore). His loving sister, Jackie Stark of Muskegon, MI, survives him.
He was the loving father of Robert and Shelly Boerman; grandchildren, Kristi Pridmore (Jason) and Gerald; daughter, Julie (Steven Graham); grandchildren, Deanna (Nathan Sherman); Harrison and Kaitlin Graham daughter, Amy (Steven Slater); grandchildren, Lauren (James Martzall); great-granddaughter, Elaine Kay Martzall; George and Kelly Slater and Jessica Boerman.
Jerry completed his undergraduate degree at Hope College, MI. He served three years in the Army as a high-speed radio operator in the Korean War. After returning, he completed his doctorate degrees in Bacteriology and Dentistry from the University of Michigan.
He and Joyce settled in Grand Rapids, MI, in 1961 where he began his dental practice and raised their four children. Jerry adored his family, always enjoying a good laugh; he entertained his grandkids, and so many, with his poems, stories, and silly jokes. Even after hearing them for the umpteenth time, his wife Joyce would still smile and giggle. Jerry was a man after God’s heart and had a special way of making those around him feel comfortable and valued. These qualities led him in life and throughout his professional life as a dentist as well as the many years he served at Riverside Christian Ref. Church. He enjoyed pheasant hunting, coin collecting and planning the next adventure. We are so blessed as a family by the love and example of our Parents and by God’s perfect plan for their lives.