Clair Derrick Zwiep went peacefully to be with his Lord on the morning of January 26, 2023, at Resthaven Care Center.
Born on October 26, 1930, in Holland, Michigan, Clair was 92 years old. He was the son of Dick and Gertrude Zwiep. He is survived by his loving wife, Elaine Ruth (Wierda) Zwiep, with whom he enjoyed 70 years as one.
He is survived as well by their six children and spouses: Steve and Sue Zwiep, Sandy and Dann Bouwer, Dave and Judy Zwiep, Leesa and Dr. Jon Schram, Linda and Mike Smeenge, and Derick (Susan) Zwiep. Clair and Elaine enjoyed the blessings of 14 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. Clair’s brother, Ted Zwiep, preceded him in death and he is survived by his sister, Elsa (Prince), and Rev. Ren Broekhuizen.
Clair lived a long and wonderful life, and he will be missed by many whose lives he touched in countless ways.
Clair’s love for God’s creation and the beauty that surrounded him made him passionate about his love for the outdoors and all the activities he enjoyed with his family and friends. He especially loved living in Michigan where water and woods are plentiful to share time fishing and hunting – experiences and adventures, recollections, and treasured memories – with anyone and everyone. His family and friends will recall times that will always give them joy.
Clair lived his life in a relationship with the Lord. He served faithfully in the church whenever and wherever he was called to do so. At the time of his passing, he was a member of Christ Memorial Church in Holland. He was always eager to share the good news of Jesus and His love with whomever he met – never shy to witness God’s faithfulness in his life and the joy of knowing Jesus as His Savior. It was his desire that all could come to experience that joy and peace. The 20 years he owned and operated Zwiep’s Greenhouses gave him the opportunity to share that desire with all who worked with and for him. Not only was his testimony in words but often in the hymns and songs he loved so much. He loved music and it was often his way to express his love for Christ not only for his own pleasure and enjoyment but for those with whom he shared that time of his life.
From 1947 to 1968 Clair served his country in the National Guards and finished his military career in the Army Reserves. He served his community as a volunteer firefighter for over 30 years.
Our family is grateful to God for the many years we shared with Dad. We are especially grateful for the legacy of Dad’s faithfulness in raising his children to know and love the Lord. This was always Dad’s prayer and priority – that his children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren would love and serve the Lord as well. We know with a blessed assurance that we will see Dad again when we all join together in heaven one day where Dad now enjoys life eternal with Jesus.
Visitation with the extended family and friends will be 12:30 -2:00 pm on Sunday, January 29, 2023, at Christ Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Rd. Holland, MI 499423. A Celebration of Life Service to follow beginning at 2:00 p.m.
Burial to take place in Graafschap Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Clair’s honor may be given to Holland Christian Schools at https://hollandchristian.org/donate/ or mailed to 956 Ottawa Ave. Holland, MI 49423.
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