Martin Horjus

Mr. Martin W. Horjus, Age 86, God’s child from eternity, was called home on Christmas Day, 2015.

Martin was born in Grand Rapids on August 25, 1929.

Martin was predeceased by his parents, Walter & Cornelia Horjus, parents-in-law Gerrit & Agnes VanSurksum, brother William Horjus, sister and brother-in-law Evelyn & Charles Pittson; In-laws: Millard Daves, Dr. Richard & Carrie Venema, John & Lavonne VanSurksum, Marvin Vink.

Martin is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ella Mae Horjus; children: Philip & Jean Horjus of Branchville NJ (Benjamin), Thomas Horjus of Grandville MI, James & Martha Horjus of Grand Rapids, MI (Jordan & Bethany Whiteley, Walter, Esther), Martin J. & Maria Horjus of Portage, MI (Emily & Tyler Ranfeld, Megan, Monica, Garrett, Lydia). Two great grandchildren: James and Katherine Whiteley; sister Nella Daves, brother Kenneth & Flora Horjus. In-laws: Wilma Vink, Bill & Marge VanSurksum.

Martin was a humble child of God and active his whole life in various reformed churches serving as Sunday school teacher, deacon and elder, most recently at Seventh Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, MI.

Martin was a “bookman,” selling printed religious and library reference materials throughout Michigan for most of his career. With an easy going rapport, great humor and excellent customer service, Martin’s customers always looked forward to his sales calls.

Martin and Ella enjoyed an active life, enthusiastically raising 4 boys, hiking, biking, sailing, cross-country skiing, travel, and many cruises. Their most satisfying trip was to the Holy Lands.

The family gives heartfelt thanks to the staff of Christian Rest Home where Martin received loving care for almost 3 years while struggling with the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease.

The funeral service will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday January 5, at Seventh Reformed Church, 950 Leonard St. NW.

Relatives and friends may visit with Martin’s family on Monday, January 4, 2016 from 2pm to 4pm and 7pm to 9pm at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW and one hour prior to the service at church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a memorial gift to an organization that Martin served as a board member: Mid-America Reformed Seminary (229 Seminary Dr., Dyer IN 46311) or Christian Rest Home Foundation (1000 Edison Ave NW, Grand Rapids MI 49504). Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to leave a memory or to sign his guestbook.