Bruce Joldersma

Bruce Joldersma, age 75, beloved husband, father and grandfather won his battle with cancer when he was swept into Heaven on December 14, 2021. He was born in Holland, MI on October 18, 1946 to James and Genevieve Joldersma. He graduated from Holland Christian High School in 1964 and attended Calvin University graduating with a BA in art in 1968. While there, he met and married Cynthia Boevé in 1967. Bruce began his career teaching art at Jenison Christian. He went to Western University where he earned an MFA in fine arts and finished his portfolio work at Claremont College in California. He taught art education classes at Grand Valley University, Calvin University and had a teaching fellowship while a student at Western. Bruce also worked in textile design and development for twelve years at Herman Miller Corporation. He finished his career teaching art at Grand Rapids Christian schools where he was a dedicated teacher for more than 20 years.

Bruce had a strong faith that took root at a young age when as a college student, he gave up his Christmas break to register voters in Birmingham, AL with Andrew Young and Jesse Jackson. This illustrates his beliefs in justice, equality and his commitment to Micah 6:8.

He had a life-long passion for sailing which began as a young teen and continued for over 50 years. Summers for the Joldersmas were spent sailing on Lake Michigan. Bruce was also known for his flower gardens, love of good design and the visual arts, his baking and cooking skills and his enjoyment of traveling with Cindy and his family.

He and Cindy were blessed with three children, Kendra Hackney (Tim), Chad Joldersma (Dawn) and Bretton Joldersma (Carrie). He deeply loved and enjoyed his seven grandchildren, Anneke (his birthday twin) and Teagan Hackney; Sloan, Sebastian and Hazel Joldersma; and Andon and Ty Joldersma.

He leaves behind his sister, Helen Bonzelaar; his brother, Mark Joldersma (Joann); and his sister-in-law, Diane Boevé; as well as his nephew Brian Joldersma (Lynda) and his niece Sheila Herrara (Gabe). Preceding him in death include his parents and in-laws, John and June Boevé; and brother-in-law Wes Bonzelaar.

The family will be having a private service celebrating Bruce’s life. Those who wish may contribute to Hospice of Holland, Pillar Church, or World Renew.

No services or visitations are scheduled. Arrangements are by the Dykstra Funeral Home-Northwood Chapel.