Willard (Bill) Doezema, born September 7, 1938, went to his eternal home on Thursday, February 29, 2024, while surrounded by his loving family.

He was a graduate of Oakdale Christian School, Grand Rapids Christian High, Calvin College, and received his Master's Degrees in Education as well as in School Social Work at the University of Michigan. Bill served thirty years as a School Social Worker for the Grand Rapids Public Schools.

Bill was a contemplative, gentle spirit whose faith was genuine yet not overt, serving faithfully as an elder and deacon. He was a loyal husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be remembered as a competitive golfer, racquetball, tennis, and softball player, and a respected softball umpire. He relished time with his sons and later his grandchildren in their many and varied activities from Improv team to school plays to volleyball matches and basketball games. He helped many a young boy hone his baseball skills as their Little League coach as well.

Music was an integral part of Bill's life. His lovely tenor voice could be heard in choirs from childhood to retirement. He prided himself in having sung in at least seventeen choirs over the years, his favorite being the Holland Chorale.

Bill will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Carol (Vanden Bosch) Doezema; his sons, Kip (Carrie), Tad (Amy), grandchildren Jack, Evie, Will, Lucy, and Angel; brother Jim Doezema, sister-in-law Judy Doezema, brother-in-law Bill Gritter, brother-in-law Jim (Cheryl) Cnossen, brother-in-law Norman Shepherd, sister and brother-in-law Bev (George) Eckhoff, brother-in-law Gary (Bevie) Vanden Bosch, brother-in-law Dan (Kathy) Vanden Bosch, sister-in-law Laura (Tom) Vander Lugt; many nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

He is preceded in death by 2 infant daughters, his parents Jim and Mae (Schuitema) Doezema, sister Kathy Gritter, sister Mary Cnossen, brother John Doezema, sister-in-law Gerri Doezema, parents-in-law Gerrit and Jane Eva (Bruinsma) Vanden Bosch, sister-in-law Connie Shepherd, and brother-in-law Dwaine Vanden Bosch.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 4, from 5 PM to 8 PM at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton Street SE. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 5 at 11 AM at Alger Park Church, 2655 Eastern Avenue SE, with one hour of visitation prior to the service.

If you so desire, memorial contributions may be made to The Holland Home Resident Assistance Fund, 2100 Raybrook SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, or the Grand Rapids Christian Schools, 2300 Plymouth Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506.