Earl Lynn Mokma, 79, of Zeeland, met his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
Earl was born February 19, 1947, in Oakland, Michigan, to Lewis and Jeannette (Joostberns) Mokma. Earl attended Russcher School through elementary school and then was a student in the first graduating class of Hamilton High School. He married Judith “Judy” Nykamp on February 23, 1968, in Niekerk Christian Reformed Church. Earl worked in the building trades as a tile installer and later as a dry wall contractor. In the 1970’s he started working at the Ottawa County Road Commission and later served as the Zeeland Garage supervisor for several years before he retired. In retirement, Earl stayed very active and busy. For 18 years he worked at Engelsman Greenhouse and also never missed attending his grandchildren’s athletic and school events. In all things Earl did his best to be a humble leader.
Earl and Judy are longtime members of North Street Christian Reformed Church, where Earl has served as an elder, elder of visitation, and as a deacon. He enjoyed hunting, gardening, reading, puzzling, and camping with his family. Earl also served his country as an SP4 in the Army National Guard, going active duty during the summer of 1968.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Judy, their children: Sheryl and Todd Vanden Heuvel, Scott and Jennifer Mokma; grandchildren: Zachary and Heather Vanden Heuvel, Tyler and Alexis Vanden Heuvel, Trevor Vanden Heuvel, Michael and Miranda Mokma, Christopher and Anneka Mokma; great-grandchildren: Kristoijn T Vanden Heuvel, Maatje Helene Vanden Heuvel, Malia Evon Vanden Heuvel, Kees Dean Vanden Heuvel, Lainey Cove Vanden Heuvel; siblings: Arnold and Marilyn Mokma, Delbert and Elizabeth (Betty) Mokma; in-laws: Norma and Henry Viening, Bill and Mary Nykamp, Garry and Beth Nykamp, Sandy and Jim Van Dragt, Phyllis Nykamp, Linda and Mark Molewyk, and many extended family members. Earl was preceded in death by his brothers Allen Mokma, Keith Mokma, and sister-in-law Kathy Mokma.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, March 19, 2026, at North Street Christian Reformed Church, 20 East Main Avenue, Zeeland MI 49464. Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 pm, Wednesday, at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State Street, Zeeland MI 49464. Interment will be in Zeeland Cemetery (Original). Memorial contributions may be made to Gateway Mission.
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