Wayne Keyzer

Wayne Keyzer was known for putting the needs of others before his own. His generous heart led him to help without a second thought and to find something good to say about anyone, no matter the situation. He didn't care about recognition or praise; he was just pleased with doing his best and working hard. He absolutely adored his wife and children and also had that special place in his heart reserved for grandchildren. Wayne was the oldest of Raymond and Esther (Kimball) Keyzer's three children. He was a member of the first batch of Baby Boomers, born in Allegan on January 19, 1946, less than a year after World War II ended. His father's jobs required the use of heavy equipment, and when Wayne was old enough to help out, he drove the truck and developed a strong work ethic. He was active at Martin High School as the captain of the football team and played the coronet in band. He was honored to play “Taps” on Memorial Day. Wayne graduated with the class of 1964.A young lady named Sharon Mulder lived down the road from Wayne. Sharon's mom had a policy that Sharon couldn't date until she was sixteen. Wayne's respectful demeanor and good manners convinced her to make an exception in his case. When Sharon was fifteen, she and Wayne went on their first date, catching a movie and a bite to eat. That little dinner at Dogs & Suds was the beginning of a lasting, loving relationship.While students across the nation were protesting U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, Wayne made the difficult decision to leave his family and his sweetheart behind, joining the United States Navy. He served his country from 1965-1969, specializing in ship gun operation and maintenance. For his service during those years, Wayne received the National Defense Service Medal.While Wayne was away, Sharon began attending college. In June of 1968, Wayne came home on leave and on the sixth of that month the couple was married. They honeymooned at Niagara Falls. Since Wayne had to return to duty, they hardly saw each other during their first year of marriage. They spent more than thirty-seven years making up for it, however. They could often be seen holding hands or snuggling on the couch. Wayne cared for Sharon like a true lady, protecting her, opening doors for her, and always treating her with the utmost respect. They were truly the best of friends After Wayne was discharged from the service, he found a job at the Plainwell Paper Mill and later at Balkemas. He worked hard, earning the respect of his co-workers. He eventually moved on to earn a supervisor position with the City of Plainwell Public Works. He loved his job and enjoyed being with all the people there. Wayne also did some independent jobs for a few trailer parks and a racetrack.Wayne had many interests and was not one to be idle. A man of faith, he and Sharon were members of the Shelbyville United Methodist Church. He enjoyed watching NASCAR, especially Johnny Benson. He went to several races with his son John, his brother Terry, and his grandkids. He also enjoyed any activity on the water. He looked forward to its coolness on a hot summer day, the way it gently rocked his boat, and the shimmering surface at sunset. Wayne and John spent countless hours in the out-of-doors, fishing and going goose hunting. They also tinkered around with their minibikes in the pole barn, talking and joking or sometimes just enjoying a quiet moment together. It was with unspeakable sorrow that Wayne endured the tragic loss of his son in 1998. He found great solace in his grandchildren, treasuring their laughter and activity. He hauled in sand to make sand piles just for them to play in and loved watching their happy faces. Wayne's friends looked for a way to show their appreciation for his consistent generosity and selflessness. They decided to surprise him with a special gift. They collected money and gave him a cruise to Alaska, complete with limo service to the airport. Wayne was humbled and touched by their gesture and cherished the memories of the beautiful glaciers and entertaining ports of call. During Wayne's long battle with cancer, he never complained. He continued working and serving others, refusing to allow the disease to break his spirit. He faithfully put others first, and, as usual, sought out ways to serve and encourage them. Wayne died at his home on Sunday, February 27, 2005. Wayne was preceded in death by his son John, his parents, father-in-law Peter Mulder, and brother-in-law Larry Mulder. His family includes his wife Sharon; daughter Karen & Ken Louwenaar of Wayland; grandchildren: Kassandra, Alex, Joshua, & Skylar; sister Jeanne & Kurt Helmold of Cooper; brother Terry & Evalee Keyzer of Shelbyville; daughter-in-law Jenny Keyzer-Laube; mother-in-law Ruby Mulder; sisters-in-law: Shirley Kaminski and Nancy Mulder; nephews: Wade, Luke, Jason, Brian, Denny, Daren, and Peter; and nieces: Pam, Lori, and Sarah.Learn more about Wayne, visit with his family, and view his Life Story film on Tuesday, March 1, from 2 - 4 p.m. and from 6 - 8 p.m. at Rupert, Durham, Marshall, & Gren Life Story Funeral Homes - Plainwell Chapel. His service will be held on Wednesday, March 2, at 1:00 p.m. at the Martin United Methodist Church. Please visit Wayne's memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can archive a favorite memory, order flowers, or make a memorial donation to the family for his grandchildren's education.