Bernard "Bernie" Laarman

Bernard Jay Laarman passed from his earthly life, to his heavenly home on September 24, 2015 at American House. Born October 16, 1929, he was a direct descendent of an original founding family of Holland, and lived his entire life in the area.

Second to his family, Bernie’s passion was cars. His lifetime hobby was spent searching for, admiring, collecting and restoring old cars. Bernie was fortunate enough to combine his hobby into a career in the auto parts business. He owned and operated the Holland NAPA store until his retirement. Bernie enjoyed his membership in the Vintage Car Club of Holland, and was honored by the Gilmore Car Museum, which accepted three of his cars for display. A member of Beechwood Church for over 60 years, Bernie served as a deacon, elder, and was involved with Boy Scouts of America. He loved the outdoors, travel, and wintering in Zephyrhills, Florida.

Bernie was preceeded in death just 22 days ago by his precious “Dolly,” Ann Laarman, and by his granddaughter Allison Dahm in 2003.

He is lovingly survived by his children Greg (Betty) Laarman, Linda (Joe) Dahm, Scott (Marcia) Laarman, Roxanne (Mark) de Roo, Lori (Rick) Van Wyk, Clark (Kim) Laarman; 18 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren. Also in-laws Elaine Laarman, Conrad Van Hoven, George and June Prins, Bess Prins, Shirley and Tim Brown, and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive visitors at Dykstra Northwood Chapel, 295 Douglas St., Holland, MI 49424, Wednesday, September 30, 6-8 PM. A memorial service to honor the life and faith of Bernie Laarman will be held Thursday, October 1, 11 AM at Beechwood Church, 895 Ottawa Beach Rd. Holland, MI 49424, with a second visitation at 10 AM, preceeding the service.

Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or Beechwood Church.

Arrangements are by the Dykstra Funeral Home-Northwood Chapel.

Please visit www.dykstrafuneralhome.com to sign an online registry or to leave a memory.