Wayne D. Westenbroek

Wayne Delwyn Westenbroek, age 88, passed away peacefully at his home on October 22, 2024.

Wayne grew up in Holland, Michigan. His parents were Adrian and Gertrude Westenbroek (née Gebben). Wayne graduated from Holland High School and then attended Hope College. While working at a summer job between semesters, Wayne met fellow Hope student, Ruth Klomparens, who would become his best friend and beloved wife of 63 years. After graduating from Hope, Wayne began his lifelong career as a teacher, and he later earned a master's degree in education from Western Michigan University. He was a talented, creative, and caring teacher, and long after retiring from 30 years’ service at West Ottawa schools, Wayne continued to hear from appreciative former students. Once he had retired from teaching in the public schools, Wayne’s passion for education led him to continue to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) at Davenport University. Using a curriculum that he and Ruth co-developed, he further taught individual ESL students at home. Several of these students found a special place in the hearts of the entire Westenbroek family, particularly two long-term students, Hong Li, and Channy Theav.

Wayne was a lifelong athlete, playing baseball for the Hope College Dutchmen, and as one of the team’s southpaw pitchers, he earned the enduring nickname, “Lefty.” Wayne and Ruth also shared a love of tennis, and they treasured the many friends they made as they enjoyed this sport over the years. Wayne continued to play tennis into his eighties.

Wayne was devoted to his faith community and enjoyed serving on the consistory and as a Stephen Minister at Third Reformed Church, where he and Ruth have been longtime members. Wayne had an abiding love of learning new things, and he was an enthusiastic supporter of the arts. His family and friends will forever miss his loving heart, his silly sense of humor, his curious brain, and his beautiful, generous soul.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Vernon Westenbroek; his daughter in-law, Kirsten Westenbroek; and his niece, Julie Klomparens.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; his son, Stephen Westenbroek and his partner, Bridget Mouchon, and grandchildren, Lance and Maia Westenbroek; daughter, Mary Westenbroek and her husband, Marcel ter Veen; sister in-law, Evelyn Westenbroek; brother in-law, Wayne Klomparens and his wife, Rhonda; and nieces and nephews and their families.

A committal service will take place at a future date, with final interment to be at the Memorial Gardens at Third Reformed Church in Holland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Holland, or to Memorial Fund of Third Reformed Church of Holland, Michigan.

Professional service entrusted to the Dykstra Funeral Home – Northwood Chapel.