Douwe "Dick" Algera

Douwe "Dick" Algera, age 91, went to be with his Lord and Savior Saturday, December 20, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents Ulbe and Trijntje Algera; brother, Carolus Algera; and brother-in-law, Leo Damen. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Algera; children Carl (Monique) Algera, Anette (Bennett) Willard, Kathy (Ned) Dykstra, Marilyn (Todd) DeVries, Andrew (Beverly) Ashby, James (Sarah) Algera, and Mindy (Paul) Chateau; 27 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; siblings Fred (Femmie) Algera, Alice Damen, Minke (Keimpe) Meesters, Afke (Johannes) Van der Goot, Akke (Ide) De Vries, and Klaas (Cheryl) Algera; sister-in-law, Anneke Algera; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Born in the Netherlands in 1934, Douwe attended Christian school through the sixth grade. The effects of World War II during the occupation of his hometown left a lasting impression. At a young age, he left school to help support his family, demonstrating the strong work ethic that would define his life.

At age 18, he moved to Winnipeg, Canada, where he worked for a farmer before becoming employed at a lumber yard. There, he developed a deep knowledge of construction and built his first home. Douwe took great pride in building homes, and over time his career expanded to include excavating, pouring concrete, and property development. His ingenuity, determination, and hands-on skills left a lasting mark on the many projects he completed.

Returning to the Netherlands, he married Siemkje, and together they raised a growing family, welcoming three children in Canada before moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where their fourth child was born.

Later in life, he married Sharon, and together they had two children. He was also a stepfather to her son. In addition to his work and family life, Douwe sang for several years with the Metropolitan Choir of Praise, reflecting his love of music and faith.

Some of Douwe’s greatest joys were found in time spent with family. He especially enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons and treasured his second home on Gun Lake, where he spent time boating and enjoying the outdoors with his grandchildren.

Douwe will be remembered for his strong faith, tireless work ethic, sense of humor, love for family, and the many things he built—both with his hands and through the lives he touched.

Visitation will be held from 3-6 p.m. Sunday, December 28, 2025 at Cook Funeral Home (Byron Center Chapel), 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, December 29, 2025 at The Well Byron Center, 8425 Byron Center Ave. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315, with visitation from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers and in memory of Dick, memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice at Trillium Woods.The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their online guestbook.