John Sikkenga

Age 88, of Kalamazoo, surrounded by his loving family, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 22, 2025. He was born in Kalamazoo on December 22, 1936, the son of the late Jacob and Jeanette (Pinkster) Sikkenga. On July 10, 1959, he married the love of his life Joyce (Weessies) Sikkenga who survives. Together they enjoyed sixty-five years of marriage. He is also survived by five children, Mark (Tina) Sikkenga, Greg (Abby) Sikkenga, Jane (Bruce) Johnson, Kris (Timothy) Bronsink and Chad (Laura) Sikkenga; grandchildren, Katie Sikkenga, Brittney (Andrew) Daniel, Brooke (Blake) Bundy, Taylor Bronsink, Logan Bronsink, Chloe Bronsink, Ava Sikkenga, Lyla Sikkenga, Mia Sikkenga, Avery Lomas, Connor Lomas and Brendan Lomas; two great-grandchildren, Matthew Daniel and Leah Daniel; nieces, Carol Jager, Cathy (Rich) Reynolds; nephew, David (Chris) Jager; extended family and friends. He was also preceded in passing by a sister, Joyce Jager; brother-in-law, Rev. Henry Jager. John lived a full and faithful life and will be missed by all who loved him. After graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School, Class of 1955, he went on to receive a bachelor's and master's degree in education from Western Michigan University. He was employed as an elementary teacher for Plainwell and later Kalamazoo Public Schools. After thirty-eight years, he retired in 1997, having made an immense difference in the lives of many students. John was selfless and volunteered his time for more than twenty-two years at the Edison Environmental Science Academy. When not working he had many hobbies including reading, gardening, watching sports, and riding rollercoasters until the age of 86; he especially enjoyed going to grandchildren's events. He had a strong faith which was the foundation of his life; he was a member of North Park Reformed Church, where he sang on the Praise Team, was an elder, deacon and Sunday School teacher. A memorial service to honor and celebrate John's life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, beginning at 11:00 am, at North Park Reformed Church, 1316 Barney Rd. Kalamazoo, MI 49004, with Rev. Paul Fazio officiating. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 10:00 am, one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place privately at West Cooper Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.