Harold Dale Dirkse

Harold Dale Dirkse, born in Holland, Michigan to Dick and Hermina Dirkse on September 30, 1929, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family, in Holland, Michigan on Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at the age of 90.

Harold was married to Hazel Ann (Kruithof) Dirkse in Holland, Michigan on June 9, 1950 and enjoyed over 69 years of a truly beautiful marriage. Together they had eight children, 23 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren. Harold and Hazel also provided foster care to 20 infants and toddlers between 1967 and 1975.

Harold attended Holland Public Schools, graduating in 1947. He remembered his time at Pine Creek Elementary School fondly throughout his lifetime.

Harold obtained his private pilot’s license at the age of 19. He enjoyed being part of a flying club in his younger years, and made many trips to air shows after retirement. He always kept a picture of his first plane, a Luscombe, in his wallet along with a picture of his 1997 Harley Davidson Sportster and his 1976 Chrysler Newport.

He started his young career with a variety of automotive occupations for his brother, Fred at Fred’s Car Lot and his brother, Herm at United Motor Sales. He was a skilled automotive painter at Mannes Body Shop. He also worked as a machinist at REM Machine. Harold was then employed by Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company for about ten years and transitioned into becoming a rural mail carrier where he worked until he eventually retired at the age of 62 in 1991.

As a young man Harold enjoyed riding motorcycles. After all of his children were grown he was able to return to that hobby and loved riding various Harley Davidson Sportsters with brothers, sons, daughters, and nephews for many years.

Harold and Hazel enjoyed thirteen years wintering in North Fort Myers, Florida where we all had the opportunity to visit and join their fun. They made many good friends, had lots of lively activities, and he honed his shuffleboard skills. While Hazel joined various groups, Harold was able to work on his wood crafts which were admired by all.

Harold was a member of Trinity Reformed Church for over fifty years. He volunteered his time over the years and helped Hazel launch the Hazel Dirkse Care Closet there.

He was a meticulous craftsman and approached all of his projects with patience and perfection, making gifts for his huge family. Every Christmas his family received gifts made by both Harold and Hazel ranging from wooden trucks, wooden puzzles, board games, wood birds, bird houses, whirligigs, pajamas, sleeping bags, doll clothes and furniture.

Nothing meant more to Harold than his family. He was a true Shepherd, caring and providing not only a warm, loving home, but modeling patience, kindness, responsibility, and constant support. He was selfless, loving, optimistic, generous, and so much fun. He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

Harold was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel on January 6, 2020; a son, Douglas Jay in 1969; a daughter, Patricia Lynn in 2002; a son-in-law, Bruce Michael Holey in 2016; a grandson, Ryan Lee Lingo in 1987; a grandson, Jess Michael Dunn Dirkse in 2007; a grandson-in-law, William Lewis in 2013; a great granddaughter, Rhiannon Danielle Jasche in 2004; and several brothers, sisters, and in-laws.

Harold is survived by his son Kenneth Lee (Norma) Dirkse of Holland, son Jerry Allen (Yvonne) Dirkse of Douglas, Michigan, daughter Kathleen Sue Dirkse of Holland, daughter Linda Jean (Tom) Lampen of Holland, daughter Jane Ellen (the late Bruce) Holey of Clayton, Michigan, and daughter Nancy Ann (Mark) Lingo of Brighton, Michigan. He is also survived by sister Anna Mae Reimersma, sister-in-law Angelen Ruth Geurink, sister-in-law Louise Dirkse, and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Visitation will be Monday, September 21, 11:00, at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James Street in Holland followed by the funeral and a light lunch.

Our family wishes to thank Hospice for their help in navigating the care, comfort, and dignity of our loving, caring father. We give our warmest gratitude to friends, neighbors, and family who visited, shared goodies, and sent cards during the recent months.

Memorial donations can be given to the Hazel Dirkse Care Closet at Trinity Reformed Church, 712 Apple Avenue, Holland, MI 49423. Envelopes will be provided at the visitation and funeral.