John Monsma passed into the loving arms of his faithful Savior, Jesus Christ on Jan. 19, 2012, from pulmonary fibrosis. He was 69.
John was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada on Aug. 2, 1942. At age 7 he moved with his family to Peers, AB. Following high school graduation from Edson High School in Edson, AB, he came to Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI and graduated in 1965. He and wife were married on Jan. 30, 1964 and moved to McBain, MI.. There he taught Biology, Sciences and was H.S. counselor for 39 years. He retired in 2004 and he and Mary became full-time RVer’s. They spent their times between Ojai, CA and Salmon Arm, B.C. to be near their children.
John was a loving husband, father and grandfather (Pake). His joys were spending his time with his family and grandchildren. John was known for his love of Jesus, disaster relief services thru CRWRC, his wisdom and dry sense of humor. His great joy was spending time with his grandchildren.
John was predeceased by his grandparents, Jouke & Klasska Wiersma, his parents, George & Minnie Monsma, and his brother Clarence Monsma. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 48 years, friend and so-journer, Mary (DeZeeuw). Also by his children; son Bradley J. Monsma and Amiko Matsuo, by Sharida L. Spyksma, husband Randy and grandchildren Caleb and Bethany Spyksma. Also his brother Bud, wife Claudia, sister-in-law Eleanor and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life will be held on Sat, Jan. 28 at 11 AM in the Cornerstone Christian Reformed Church, Salmon Arm, B.C. It was his wish to be buried in Canada and burial will be in Mt. Ida Cemetery, Salmon Arm, B.C. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor his life may send memorial contributions to: CRWRC - Disaster Relief Services, 400 47th St. S.W., Byron Center, MI USA 49315 or King’s Christian School, 350 B 30th St NE, Salmon Arm, B.C., Canada V1E 1J2.
Online condolences can be sent through John’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Funeral arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Service, Salmon Arm, BC