Willard Brink was born at home in Graafschap, MI, on January 6, 1929, the 4th of 13 children to Bert and Mary Brink. On Saturday, July 26, 2025, at age 96 he entered Glory and now rests in the Shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1).
Willard was a faithful, humble servant for many years at East Saugatuck Christian Reformed Church, serving in many capacities. From humble beginnings, he became a lifelong farmer, trusting God for his daily provision. Family was always the highlight of his life, including times of travel, camping, celebrating holidays and family reunions, as well as working together – with his 12 siblings, his wife Thelma, his 7 children, his 23 grandchildren and his 49 great grandchildren. He leaves behind a strong legacy of faith.
Willard was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by those who survive, including his children: Wilma (Charles) DeRidder, Janice Kuhtic, David (Debra) Brink, Mary Dykstra, Sally (Peter) Mulder, Laura (Scott) Visser, Dennis (Cindy) Brink; 23 grandchildren; 49 greatgrandchildren; siblings: Marjorie Vanette Wolters, Berdella Cooper, Nathan (Marilyn) Brink, Andy Brink, Gloria Huyser, June VanFarowe, Pearl (Stanley) Vos; in laws: Jake (Nancy) Koster, Frank Berkenpas, Bill (Kay) Bolman; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by Thelma, his beloved wife of 71 years in 2023, sons-in-law Michael Dykstra and Phillip Kuhtic, granddaughter Stephanie Kuhtic, Siblings: Ervin (Laura)(Lydia) Brink, AnnLucille (Jack) Kraal, Herb (Mary) Brink, Jerry (Gladys) Brink, (Jack) Vanette, (Lloyd) Wolters, (Ed) Cooper, Carolyn (Rich) VanEss, (Reatha) Brink, (Harv) VanFarowe, and (Curt) Huyser.
A memorial service will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at East Saugatuck Christian Reformed Church, 3815 56th Street, Holland, MI 49423. Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 PM on Friday, August 1, at Langeland Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 East 16th Street, Holland, MI 49423. Burial will be in East Saugatuck Cemetery.
Those who wish to make memorial contributions may donate to Growing Hope Globally growinghopeglobally.org. A special Thank You to the staff of Emmanuel Hospice and to Kim Dawes for her loving care of both Thelma and Willard.
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