John Ubels, age 98 of Jenison, passed away August 31 2022. John was born in Ripon, CA on December 31, 1923, to Lambert and Maria (De Boer) Ubels. He served in the U.S. Army in Europe during World War II and graduated from Calvin College in 1948. He was a Christian high school educator for 39 years, teaching mathematics in Lynden, WA, Ripon CA, and Kalamazoo, Ml. He retired in 1987.
John was a lifelong member of the Christian Reformed denomination, most recently at LaGrave Church in Grand Rapids. In recent years, he volunteered as a mail courier at Metro Hospital in Grand Rapids, a distributor at the food pantry at Westminster Presbyterian Church, and a tutor at Hudsonville Christian Middle School. He enjoyed traveling, especially to several reunions of his army company and visits to cousins in the Netherlands. He attended CALL classes at Calvin, one of which prompted him to write his memoirs for the family.
John will be remembered for his phenomenal recall, curiosity, and sense of humor. He described himself as shy, but made connections and had interesting conversations with people wherever he went. He especially enjoyed reconnecting with former students.
John was married to Antoinette (Nettie) Schaap from September 5, 1951 until her death in 1998. He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers Ralph, John, and Engbert; and sister, Johanna; as well as numerous in-laws. John's children John and Jan Ubels of Jenison, and Janine and Henry Huisjen of Holt, MI will remember him, with thanks, for his long and vibrant life. He will also be remembered by five grandchildren and their spouses; ten great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services are planned for 2:30 p.m. Thursday, September 8, 2022 at Georgetown Cemetery. Chad Boorsma and Rev. Peter Jonker will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to the Luke Society and Faith Hospice. The family is grateful for the care John received from Faith Hospice and the staff of American House in Jenison. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.
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