Age 76 of Grand Rapids, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Saturday, October 3, 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Mabel; brother, Vaughn; brothers-in-law, Dennis Taylor and Bob Lubbers. He is survived by his wife of 57 years Olive “Polly”; daughters, Rebecca (Ron) Parido, Rachel (Peter) Koert, April (John) Bercaw; grandchildren, Michael (Julie) Parido, Kari Parido, Phillip (Emily) Koert, Jordon Koert, Andrew (Katie) Bercaw, Alissa Bercaw; great grandchildren, Calvin, Everett, and Clara; sisters, Sindy (Keith) Berens, Gloria Lubbers; brothers and sisters in-law, Mary Taylor, Carolyn Murray, David (Julie) Bauman, John (Sandy) Bauman, Stephen (Opal) Bauman;. Art left a legacy of love for His Savior Jesus Christ, love for his family and courage with his health challenges. He started as an apprentice in High School and Konings Machine in Holland, where he became a journeyman Die Maker, then at Capital Engineering he further learned designing skills, later owning Proto Stamp Tool & Die. Art often said when complimented on his accomplishments “It was God who blessed us”. He lived life with a strong, sincere faith in the Lord Jesus who he trusted as a Savior at 15 years old. Art had diabetes for 55 years. Slowly, although Art was well disciplined, diabetes hurt his body in many ways. He fought his earthly fight quietly and valiantly with that disease not complaining, although he regretted he could not do many things the last few years. We rejoice that Art is with his Lord and Savior enjoying heavenly bliss. Funeral service will be held Thursday 10:30 a.m. at Wealthy Park Baptist Church, 2233 Michigan St NE, Grand Rapids. Pastor William J. Swem officiating. Interment Cascade Township Cemetery. Visitation Wednesday 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids. Memorial contributions may be made to Wealthy Park Baptist Church.
