Wally (Wallace) Boelkins, age 82 went to his eternal Home peacefully surrounded by family on May 2, 2014. Wally was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Marge (Margaret Betten) Boelkins, his wife of 4 years, Helen Mellema, and three great grandchildren. Wally’s surviving family members are: Marla (Tom) Warren, Kathy (Kent) VanTil, Jan (Chip) Talen, Chris (Dave) Konyndyk, Chuck (Chris) Boelkins, and Ann (Guy) DeVries. Wally has 22 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; and two brothers, Winston and Stan Boelkins. He is also survived by the Seng family, to whom he was a father-figure, and the extended Mellema family. Wally had a dynamic relationship with God. He believed in a simple but intense faith lived out through a purposeful life using the gifts God had given him to bless the lives of others and share the message of Jesus Christ. Many were touched by his generosity and sense of humor. Wally had a God-given gift to see the potential in people and gave hope and friendship to many. Wally owned and operated Unist, Inc. (formerly Uni-Mist) for over 40 years, growing his business from a single room in a basement to a world-wide corporation. He loved his business and believed strongly in his products. His business was also a ministry, as Wally employed, supported, and mentored many people over the years. Wally liked to try new things and believed that life should be lived with enjoyment. He spoke his mind while keeping things in perspective and had a contagious laugh and sense of humor. He loved traveling and enjoying God’s world and often took others along for the ride. Wally loved the water and will be remembered by many for sailing on Goldy-Lux, fishing, and countless fun times at his cottage. Also, he and Marge had many houseguests over the years who will fondly remember their hospitality. Family dinners and trips created lasting memories with kids and grandkids. He especially enjoyed the company of young people and his grandchildren will truly miss their Grandpa, Gramps, G-unit, G-pops. Undoubtedly, there was a celebration in heaven full of joy that is beyond our comprehension. He is free of sickness and old age. We are sure there were hugs, dancing, laughter, thunderous applause, singing, and a warm ocean breeze. His was a life well lived, and he will be so dearly missed. Thanks to God for the gift of Wally. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday 5:00 p.m. at Keystone Community Church, 655 Spaulding Ave., Ada, MI 49301. Pastor Randy Wassink officiating. Visitation Thursday May 8, 11am-1pm, 4pm-7pm at O’Brien-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids, and one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wedgewood Christian Services or the Van Andel Institute for Parkinson’s Disease research.
