Peter Roskam

All who knew Peter Roskam would agree that he was an extraordinary man to know and love. He was hardworking, genuine, and courageous with a a faith that directed his steps. Peter was a devoted husband and loving father who was so proud of his family, including his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A longtime resident of the community he loved, he was sort of person whom everyone wanted to know. Although he will be deeply missed, his legacy will be carried on by those who follow his footsteps.

The Netherlands was not immune to the depression and ravages of World War II. It was just prior to the crash of the stock market in October of 1929 that Hans and Rena (Keulen) Roskam had a healthy baby boy they named Pieter on September 4, 1929. Born in Oudemiedum, Friesland, the Netherlands, he was the oldest of three children in his family and was raised in the Netherlands alongside his siblings, Grace and Gary. The Roskam home was deeply rooted in the Christian faith, and he attended a local Christian Reformed Church (the Dutch version).

In many ways, Pieter, or Peter as he later came to be known, experienced an upbringing that was common for young boys of his generation. Although the Netherlands remained neutral during WWII throughout the late thirties and early forties, they were subject to the Nazi invasion and occupation. Peter did attend local schools where he specialized in agriculture. When he was not in school, Peter was expected to work and to work hard. For this reason, there was little time to pursue other interests.

As a young man, Peter immigrated to the United States. It was while visiting in Prospect Park, New Jersey that he met his wife, Ruth, while attending a Dutch service. They began dating and soon found themselves in love. With a desire to establish a life together, Peter and Ruth were married on April 22, 1953, in Goshen, New York. At first the newlyweds lived in various places in New York and New Jersey. In 1972, they moved to Michigan where they remained for the rest of his life. Together Peter and Ruth were blessed to welcome five children including Jim, Ruth, Pete, Joyce, and Hans into their hearts and home. Although he worked hard as a dairy farmer and later as a dairy hauler, Peter made time to be an active part of his children’s lives. The Roskams enjoyed going back to the Netherlands to visit relatives. Peter was involved at his kids’ schools and was on the school board at Goshen Christian School.

Throughout his life, Peter was one to keep busy. As an active member of his church, he served as a deacon. He loved classic hymns. He enjoyed books by Francine Rivers, Karen Kingsbury, and Paul R. Evans. Since he loved organ music, Peter taught himself to play it by ear. He liked country music including the Mitch Miller Gang of the 1960's. Checkers was his favorite game. Peter was a no frills kind of guy who enjoyed simple things.

Although he enjoyed so many things throughout his rich and rewarding life, there was no greater gift in the life of Peter Roskam than spending time with the ones he loved. He was an amazing husband who cared for his wife in excess of 20 years as she battled multiple sclerosis and diabetes. His devotion to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was truly evident. Peter was a courageous man who could see the positive side of every trial, and he found such peace and comfort in his faith. He will be forever missed but never forgotten.

ROSKAM – Mr. Peter Roskam aged 85, of Grand Rapids, passed away on July 4, 2015. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth. Peter is survived by his children, Jim (Bonnie) Roskam, Ruth (Dave) Vander Molen, Peter (Kathy) Roskam Jr., Joyce (Ken) Jonkman, and Hans Roskam; 16 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his sister, Grace (John) Van Der Molen; brother, Gary (Janet) Roskam; and several nieces and nephews. For many years, Peter worked as a dairy farmer and later a milk hauler. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Christian Rest Home Assisted Living for the care and support shown to Peter. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, July 8, 2015 at Lamont Community Church, 14000 48th Ave Coopersville, with Rev. Rodney S. Thole officiating. The family will receive visitors from 6-8 PM on Tuesday at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, 851 Leonard St. NW and Wednesday for one hour prior to the service at church. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Edison Assisted Living Center or the Christian School of your choice. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to archive a memory, photo, or sign the guestbook online.