Dr. Vernon L. Boersma

Dr. Vernon L. Boersma died peacefully in his sleep at his home on June 19, 2021. He was born the son of Henry and Grace Boersma on January 17, 1922, in Holland, Michigan. He married Lois Mary Hinkamp in 1945 and they recently celebrated their 75th anniversary.

He was graduated from Holland Christian High School, Hope College, and University of Michigan Medical School, and became the fourteenth doctor to practice in Holland and the first pediatrician in Ottawa and Allegan counties. He served in the Navy during WWII and the Korean War.

He was active in the community and served on the boards of many organizations. He was a member of the first board of Evergreen Commons, served boards of Resthaven, Good Samaritan Center, and was the founder of the Migrant Clinic where he volunteered for over 25 years. He was a member of HASP (Hope Academy of Senior Professionals). of which he was a former President and last surviving charter member. He also was an early President of the Holland/Zeeland Community Foundation and was a Rotarian and a member of the Century Club.

A great supporter of Hope College, he was one of the first recipients of the Most Valuable Alumni Award. He was a college physician for a number of years.

Always active in Hope church, he served as elder several terms, taught Sunday School, and was a leader in Brim Bunch.

Preceding him in death were his brother, Dell (Wendell), and his sister, Connie Hinga. He is survived by his children, Mary Patricia of Berkeley, CA, Timothy (Margie) and Robert of Holland, five grandsons, three-step grandchildren, and one step-great grandson. He is also survived by a brother, Phillip (Julie) of Northbrook, IL.

A memorial service will be held at Hope Church, 77 W. 11th Street on Saturday, June 26th at 11 a.m., with a one-hour visitation prior to the service. It is suggested that in lieu of flowers, memorials be directed to Resthaven Care Center, The Vernon and Lois Scholarship Fund at Hope College, or to the charity of one’s choice.