Willis Earle Driesenga

Willis (Bill) Earle Driesenga went to be with our Lord on May 25, 2016. The oldest of four boys, he was born on April 2, 1929, to Henry and Gladys Driesenga. He was a Korean Vet and received the Bronze Medal of Honor.

Bill met his wife, Lois DeJonge, while cruising 8th Street in downtown Holland. They married and had 8 children. Bill always joked that he was glad they didn’t meet on 16th Street. His family was his pride and joy!! Bill had a friendly sense of humor and a fun smile to share.

He served as Holland Township Superintendent for 30 years and remained active in retirement. Bill was an advocate for growth, and the Township and Parks grew and flourished under his leadership. He also sang Gospel Music in the King’s Men’s Quartet for 26 years.

Celebrating life was something Bill wanted all to realize. An eternal optimist in even the toughest of times, he always desired to find the good in any situation.

Bill is survived by his wife, Lois; sons: Kevin, Brian and Mark Driesenga; daughters: Rhonda (Carl) Staat, Brenda (Bill) Lalley, Shelley (Brian) Stauffer, Kim (Matt) Neil, Jill Driesenga; 10 grandchildren: Patrick Lalley, Staci (D.J.) Willard, Curtis Staat, Melissa (Jared) Jelsema, Kendra (Franklin) Delgado, Austin (Marissa) Stauffer, Amy (Peter) Clifton, Logan, Grant and Ellary Neil; 6 great-grandchildren: Carter, Makenna, Kendyl, Caden Willard, Havik Jelsema, Lydia Delgado; brothers: Randy and Bruce Driesenga. Preceded in death by; his grandson Bradley Staat, his parents and brother Merle.

The family of Bill Driesenga is planning a private memorial service to honor and celebrate his life. The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, kindness and support.