Joachim "Jack" Klaus-Josef Praest

Jack was born in the small northern town of Sonsbeck, Germany, which is not far from the Netherlands. He traveled the globe and made friends everywhere he went. Jack eventually moved to the Detroit area, to be a part of a German team that established the North American division of Heidel-Frimo, Inc, which designs and manufactures the large machinery for the automotive industry. This new venture allowed him to see much of America, including the town of Holland, MI, which reminded him of home and the summers he spent at the North Sea, in the Netherlands. Whenever he got a chance, he would return to the Holland Lakeshore to see the tulips and European influence, which reminded him of home. By chance, he met the love of his life Raynetta (McGee) Praest, and married a year later at a friend’s home, on his beloved Lake Michigan. They celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary this past June.

In his spare time, he loved to tend to his gardens and ride his beloved Harley Davidson. He also enjoyed traveling, downhill skiing, tennis, soccer, and was an excellent equestrian. Jack will be missed greatly by his wife, family, and numerous friends worldwide. Jack loved the Lord, and we know we will all meet again someday.

Jack is survived by his wife Raynetta (McGee) Praest; his German family, Heinrich Hoogen; Heiner Jr., Miriam, and Johanndes Hoogen, Dirk, Pia, Jan Hendrik, Greta Bruecken, all of Alpen, Germany; and Martin, Steff, Simon, and Arvid of Rheinburg, Germany.

He was preceded in death by his parents Johann and Klara (Richartz) Praest; sister Margret Hoogen; and brother Hans-Theo Praest.

A memorial celebration of Jack's life will take place Sunday, July 11, 2021, 3:00pm, at the Brave Art Studio and Gallery (in the garden), 1873 Lincoln Rd., Allegan, MI 49010.

A time of visitation will take place immediately following the celebration.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Humane of Ottawa County. Jack loved animals and had 3 rescued cats that he adored. He was lovingly called the “Cat Man”.

Please visit www.lakeshorememorial.com for further information.