John William Beal

07/30/1946

01/22/2022

Memorial Contributions:

Myasthenia Gravis Foundation

Cascade Office Park 5, 2660 Horizon Dr SE STE 235, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

or

https://mg-mi.org/donate.shtml

John William Beal, age 75, of Grand Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully into the arms of his Savior January 22, 2022, with his wife of 25 years, Elly at his side. John was most compassionate and always fair-minded and sought out the best in others. Always ready to lend a hand whether it be emotional support or friendship. John’s earthly journey began in Warren, OH then to Phoenix, AZ, Denver, CO, and finally to Grand Rapids, MI. He graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in broadcasting and business. John loved to nudge family members about ASU’s Sun Devil football and that was generally of topic of discussion in the fall. John is preceded in death by his son, Benjamin Folkertsma. In addition to Elly, John is survived by his sons, John (Marcia) Folkertsma, and Mark (Rachel) Folkertsma; precious granddaughters who he was especially close with, Ava and Emma who will miss him dearly; sister, Susan Glawe of Phoenix, AZ; nephews, Mike (Kelly) Glawe and daughter Phoebe, and Chris (Phyllis) Glawe and sons John and Thomas. Services will be livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk33XoH3YVwUa9A6hE2zcsw 12:00 pm Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at Thornapple Community Church, 3260 Thornapple River Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with visitation one-hour prior. Rev. Tim Dieffenbach officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, Cascade Office Park 5, 2660 Horizon Dr SE STE 235, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 or https://mg-mi.org/donate.shtml

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4 Responses

  1. I am so saddened to learn of John’s passing. I worked with John at the Arizona Lottery. John was a friend to all he met and he will be missed. He and I spent many hours resolving all the ills of the world, or at least we thought we figured them all out. My heart goes out to Elly and the rest of John’s family.

  2. I worked for John at the Arizona Lottery. I was his administrative assistant for several years until he moved back to Michigan. John was more than a boss, he was a treasured friend. He always encouraged me to grow and learn and was always available to listen. Even after leaving, he would frequently send me a message just to check up on me. I so appreciated his friendship and guidance and will truly miss him. He was very special. My thoughts and prayers go out to Elly and the family for your loss.

  3. Elly, I just hope that these memorials are always current. Just fell across this obituary. You did a good job writing it. So sorry to hear this
    We are at JTs right now and was thinking about you. Sending love.
    ,Dottie & Dave

  4. My sincere sympathies to Elly and family. I knew John in High School and considered him a dear friend. So sorry for the late post, but just found out about his early passing. I know how much he adored his family and his 2 granddaughters. I know the holiday season will be challenging without him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

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