Paul Richard Sikkenga, age 57, of Lowell passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Monday, February 8, 2021. Paul was born on June 10, 1963 in Battle Creek, MI to Raymond Richard and Miriam Jem (Edwards) Sikkenga. As a child, Paul attended church camp at Lake Louise and Westley Woods, which sparked a lifelong love of camping. He graduated from Lakeview High School in 1981, and was an Eagle Scout and went on to earn a BA in Recreation Management from Ferris State University in 1990. Utilizing his degree, Paul worked as the program director at multiple youth camps around Michigan. Paul married Teri VanderVeen on October 8, 1994 in Evart, MI. One of Paul’s favorite activities was spending time with his family. He was particularly fond of playing board games, card games, and doing puzzles with his kids. Paul also enjoyed driving and listening to classic rock, and he had a much-loved collection of fedoras and Big Dog clothing. Paul is survived by his wife, Teri; children, Katelynn, Ryan, and Tyler; father, Ray; uncle, Carl (Jeanette) Sikkenga; brothers, David (Shari) of Otsego, MN, and Steven (Lisa) of High Point, NC; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his children, Paul Terrence, Renee Lynn, and Megan Jem; mother, Jem; stepmother, Reta; and cousin, Tammy. A private family service for Paul will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations to help the family with final expenses or college assistance for Paul’s children can be sent to: Sikkenga Family c/o Russ VanderVeen, P.O. Box 686, Evart, MI 49631.
7 Responses
Aunt Jeanette and I send all of you our love and sympathy. We loved Paul and all of you very much. You are always in our thoughts and prayers. We are here for you any time.
David and Steve, I was very saddened to hear of Paul’s passing. Wishing you and his family peace and comfort during this very difficult time. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Our sincere condolences to Paul’s family. We have fond memories of growing up at Chapel Hill UMC in Battle Creek and Paul as our Youth Group leader and friend.
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Paul. We were neighbors of the Sikkenga family when the kds were growing up in Battle Creek. Our children attended school at Lakeview as well. They were such a wonderful family. Our sympathy goes out to his immediate family as well as his brothers Steven and David and his father Ray.
I am so sorry for your loss. I have so many fond memories of Paul. My heart breaks for all of you but I know he is home in heaven with his mom. My prayers for all of you.
Paul and I were childhood friends at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church. We went to Sunday school together, were confirmed together, received our first Bibles together, sang in the children’s choir together, and even took our first communion together. I will always remember Paul as a kind, gentle soul, and a supportive friend. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
So sorry for your loss. Paul was a nice guy, always friendly and wanted to make you smile. He will be missed. Praying for God’s peace and comfort at this time. RIP Paul