Homer Kenneth VanPortfliet

Homer Kenneth VanPortfliet, aged 93, passed away on October 14, 2014 in his home with family by his side. Homer was born April 23, 1921 in Grand Rapids, MI to Charles and Katherine VanPortfliet. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as his brother Melvin, sister Maxine DeMeester, son in law Allen Beauleaux and infant son Kenneth. Surviving Homer is his beloved wife of 69 years Gloria; children Kathy Beauleaux of Richmond, MI and Thomas VanPortfliet; grandchildren Lee and Kristen Beauleaux, Ken and Kimberly VanPortfliet; great grandchildren Liam and Emma Beauleaux. Homer had many nephews, nieces and cousins. After attending high school, Homer served his country in the United States Marine Corps where he was awarded the Purple Heart Medal. After his honorable discharge from the military he began his career of 38 years as a mechanic with the City of Grand Rapids. Some of Homer’s hobbies included the creative building of his family’s home and his passion for automobiles, carpentry and gardening. Homer was a long time member of Oakview Community Church serving as a deacon. He will be remembered as a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. A funeral service in celebration of Homer’s life is scheduled at 11:30 AM on Monday, October 20, 2014 at Reyers North Valley Chapel with Rev. Gerry Vandervelde officiating. Visitation will take place from 10am to 11:30am on the same day. Internment will take place with military honors at Fairplains Cemetery. Please consider a memorial contribution in memory of Homer to the National Kidney Foundation (1169 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48108).