Sidney Oostema passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016.
Sidney was born in Huntley, Montana, on April 2, 1931 to John and Stena (Vander Veen) Oostema. The family moved in 1938 from Montana to Lynden where he attended Lynden Christian Schools. Sidney met Leona VanBeek in 1952 and they were married in 1955. That same year Sidney and Leona started farming, but it wasn’t until 1961 that they were able to purchase the family farm out on Kamm Road.
Sidney was employed for almost 40 years as a dairy farmer and 17 years at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds. He served our country overseas from 1952 to 1954 in the U.S. Army. He was a longtime member of First Christian Reformed Church.
He never shied away from a conversation and enjoyed walking and daily coffee at McDonalds with friends. He had a passion for gardening.
Giving the harvest to many family and friends, he also donated much of the bounty to the Lynden food bank or sold it at his curbside stand.
He was an avid reader, often reading two books at a time. He enjoyed challenging himself to learn new technology, often taking selfies with his tablet. Sidney enjoyed having his grandchildren around and being involved in their many activities.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Leona Oostema; his brother Al (Hen) Oostema of Michigan; sons Roger (Lisa) Oostema and Glen (Lisa) Oostema; daughters Marlys (Brad) Warner and Karen Grafwallner; daughter-in-law Gina Oostema; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son Marvin Oostema and grandson Scott Oostema.
A celebration of Sidney’s life will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, in First Christian Reformed Church, Lynden, with Pastor Robert Woodyard officiating. There will be a reception following the service in the Mt. Baker Rotary Building, 1751 Front St., Lynden.
Memorials may be sent in the name of Scott Oostema to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, 21905 64th Ave. W, Suite 301B, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043.
You are invited to share your condolences and memories in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Lynden.
