HOLLAND (WHTC) — Funeral services with military honors are set for 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 29, 2016, for former Holland Fire Chief, John R. Du Mez. The Holland resident was 85, when he died Thursday, March 24, at Appledorn Assisted Living.
In all his life, John DuMez demonstrated optimism and deep faith.
He played clarinet as a child and later for the American Legion and other bands. He attained Eagle Scout status as a Boy Scout.
The 1948 Holland High grad started volunteering for Holland’s fire department while still a Hope College student. After college, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, according to Dykstra Funeral Home’s obituary.
After returning to Holland in 1967 DuMez joined Holland’s fire department, becoming deputy chief in 1973 and chief in 1982. He retired in 1988.
He was preceded in death by his first and second wives, Rae and Betty and survived by his third wife, Geraldine, three children, three stepchildren, a brother, Ted Du Mez, and a large extended family.
His 11 a.m. service, with military honors, is at Christ Memorial Chapel, 595 Graafschap Rd.
The family has requested donations to Hospice of Michigan or Bethany Christian Services.
