Richard De Graaf, 73, of Zeeland, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2019, at his home.
Rick was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Evert and Wilma (Vander Wilk) De Graaf. Rick graduated from West Ottawa High School and served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Rick met Linda Bowen and they married shortly after completing his naval service. Rick also started working for Holland Hitch as a welder about the same time. Rick later retired from Holland Hitch after 47 years of service. Rick was also a longtime avid bowler and fisherman. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Bill De Graaf.
Rick is survived by his wife of 47 years, Linda, their two children: Rachael and Joe Cote of Zeeland, Miranda De Graaf of Zeeland; grandchildren: Grayson Cote, Morgan King, Ella Cote, Madison King; brothers: Kenneth and Mary De Graaf, Edgar and Doris De Graaf; in-laws: Dan and Donna Bowen, Kelsey Gibson; and many extended family.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, January 4, 2019, at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State Street, Zeeland MI 49464. A time to visit and greet the De Graaf Family will be 10:00-10:45 am prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland.
