Jacob Dekkinga

Jacob Junior Dekkinga, age 79, of Portage, MI passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, November 5, 2016. Jacob was born on February 6, 1937 in Grand Rapids, MI the son of Albert and Nellie (Dykstra) Dekkinga. The family moved to Portage, MI and Jacob became a graduate of Portage High School in 1956.He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged on May 15, 1966. On June 5, 1959 he was united in marriage to his loving wife of 57 years, Karen (Heystek) Dekkinga, who survives. Also surviving are his children, Todd Dekkinga, Amy (Nathan) Stonerock; 3 grandchildren, Aaron and Melanie Dekkinga, and Emmalee Bennett; a great-grand-daughter, Marleigh Dekkinga; his sister, Janet (Bernie) Daggett; brother and sister-in-law, Jim (Joyce) Heystek; and several nieces, nephews, and friends. Jacob owned Dekkinga and Bos Builders with his partner, Howard Bos for 58 years. Together, they built over 200 plus homes and commercial buildings primarily within the city of Portage. They played a major role in "building" Portage to what it is today. Jacob's hobbies included fishing, hunting, competing in classic car shows, and taking pride in his manicured lawn. He also took pride in wood-working and helping out his friends with remodeling projects. Services will be held at 1:00pm Thursday, November 10 at First Reformed Church of Portage, 7905 S. Westnedge Ave with Rev. Clayton Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Portage Central Cemetery. Friends may meet the family Wednesday evening from 6-8pm at the Langeland family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre and Thursday from 12:00-1:00 at the church. Memorials may be directed to the West Michigan Cancer Center and Blood Institute.