Cornelius Jonker

My Grandpa, I can’t believe the time has come that God has taken you home to be with him and wrapped you in his arms for eternity. It seems like yesterday when I was a little girl sitting on your lap, trying to dig every stuffed vanilla old fashioned Carmel, good n plenty, jelly bean or any bit of candy out of your pockets. It seems like yesterday when I would scan every church pew to find you before any and every concert and function, just to grab hold of your hand and hold it for the entirety of the concert. Grandpa, I’m going to miss the way you look at me and tell me that I’m your “favorite granddaughter named Aubrey” and that “I am and always have been so special to you”. I have always appreciated your positive outlook on life and your passion for many hobbies. Your desire to be fishing, singing, gardening, showing up to sporting events and making your own famous sneaky pete, but also your love for mind games like bingo, cross word puzzles, and word searches. Grandpa, you always lightened the mood and made everyone feel comfortable with your jokes that will live in my head forever, not because they are necessarily funny, but just because I’ve heard all of them many times 😊 some of these include … Q. Did you hear about the kidnapping in Hudsonville? A. He just woke up Q. What did one eye say to the other? A. There’s something between us that smells Q. What’s blue and not heavy A. Light blue Q. Do you know what the statue of liberty stands for? A. It can’t sit down We all loved being around you. I loved your servants heart that always offered us anything and everything when we came over to visit, especially one of those chocolates from Your never ending bingo win chocolate box. I loved your famous quotes, “ come again, but not till the next time”. Or “ if you eat that cherry pit you’ll grow a cherry tree in your stomach.” I loved your passion and joy for your accomplishments ( and when you had to show all of your visitors your massive northern pike you caught, mounted up on your dresser. I loved the way I never had to question your love for me or love for your amazing wife and our great grandma. I loved the way you loved your church and your faith and constantly reminded me of the importance of marrying in the lord. I loved the way you served our country and the passion you had for the infantry. And, although you had many grandchildren and great grandchildren you always made time For me and us all. I can remember you saying “ get a hit for grandpa” at my softball games, or being present at all of our grand parents days, concerts, graduations, and celebrations. I will never forget your love for Frosted Flakes with marshmallows, pudding or anything sweet. And although many may disagree I love how we share similar quirks with our stubborn natures and sassy quick witted spirits. Im Thankful I’ve known you for majority of my life, I’m thankful we got so close. I love the way you loved my husband and welcomed him as well, you never forgot “ Joel’s name” and would always say to him ….. about me I’m so thankful you were able to be at our wedding before you passed. That was so special to us. Most people do not grow up with both their grandparents let alone great grandparents. Grandpa I love you, you have lived such a wonderful life and served your father faithfully and fully unto the end, standing as a witness for him every single day. God gained another angel on July 2 2024 and I can picture you singing your heart out on heavens shores with the whole church triumphant. Yes, the finality of death is difficult, but what peace and joy it brings me to know that you’re finally home. “ you’ve fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. May God hold you in His arms and be with you until we meet again. Your Aubrey Mae

- Aubrey Rutgers

I absolutely loved seeing Mr Jonker. ❤️ He always had a big smile on his face; even though I didn't always see him often he still remembered my name. Very smart man. And definitely a Godly influence to all! He will be greatly missed. We will keep his dear wife and Uncle Bernie and Aunt Laurie and Uncle Eugene & Aunt Sharon and family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. John 14:1-3 "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."

- Megi Feenstra