Thomas Aardema

Thomas A. Aardema, age 86, passed away at Rose Arbor Place on June 9, 2025. He was born May 7, 1939 the son of Tracey and Joseph Aardema in Holland, Michigan. He graduated from Hope College Class of 1961 where he met Judith L. DeWitt, Class of 1963. They were united in marriage on August 24, 1963. Tom worked in the computer industry, spending twenty-six years with IBM in Kalamazoo. When not working he had many hobbies and passions. He greatly enjoyed aviation, travel, reading, playing guitar and keyboard, oil painting and sailing his yachts, "Alibi" and "Reverie" on lake Macatawa and Michigan. His is survived by his wife of 61 years, Judy Aardema; son, Eric Thomas of Kalamazoo; daughter, Joanne (David) Mih of Portage; grandchildren, Jason, Kate and Lilly Mih of Portage; Robert Aardema of Kalamazoo and Maggie Aardema of Wrightsville Beach, N.C.; several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was preceded in passing by his parents; brother, Jack (Maggie) Aardema of Wrightsville Beach, N.C.; and a sister-in-law, Bonnie (Robert) Aardema of Kalamazoo. Tom felt blessed in his life for parents and brothers who loved him, a loving and faithful wife, children who were his friends and precious grandchildren in whom he delighted. A memorial service to honor and celebrate Tom's life will be held at Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, beginning at 2:00 pm. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Open Door Ministries of Kalamazoo or Centrica Care Navigators, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.