Dewey Gordon Westra was born in East Friesland, WI, on May 31, 1929, and he went to glory on September 13, 2021.
Dewey was the son of William and Susie (Schregardus) Westra. He is survived by his loving wife, Lois, (DeGroot), and his three sons: Steve (Kathy Bille), Paul (Sharon Visscher), and Jonathan (Karen Lagerwey) as well as a step-daughter Mary Buwalda Soodsma. (Scott). Dewey loved his family and immensely enjoyed spending time with his 11 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. Dewey was preceded in death by his parents and by his son, David.
Dewey was very active in his church, his community, and his business. He served faithfully for many years as an elder and a deacon taught Sunday School and led Cadets. He served on the boards of Waupun Christian School, Central Wisconsin Christian School (including serving on the committee to form the school), and Wayland Academy. He also served on the Foundation Board for Christian Schools International. He formed Westra Construction in the late 1940s with his father. Additionally, he was a charter member of the Wisconsin branch of Associated Builders and Contractors, served 2 terms as the president of the association, and served on their national board as well. He was a recipient of the Wes Meilahn Award through ABC. He was also a People to People Ambassador to China representing the construction industry.
Dewey, with Lois, was an active volunteer. He was an active member of the Gideons for over twenty years and participated in distributing Bibles in Ethiopia. He served at Wycliffe Bible Translators in Tuscon, Arizona, volunteering for more than 23 winters. He helped build housing and similar projects for missionaries.
Dewey was deeply loved and appreciated by his family and will be greatly missed. However, the family is reassured by the testimony of faith that he consistently gave throughout his life and know that he is now in the presence of his Heavenly Father.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 18, 2021, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St. Holland with Rev. James H. Scholten officiating. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday, from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Memorials can be given to Wycliffe Bible Translators or the Christian School of your choice. To leave condolence and more information, please visit www.langelandsterenberg.com
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