Charles Buikema

Charles Buikema, age 81, of Alanson and Fruitport, Michigan, died Tuesday, February 27, 2007. He was born August 18, 1925 in Muskegon, MI to John and Eva (Medema) Buikema. Raised in the Muskegon and Fruitport area, Charles married Theresa Murphy on June 29, 1946. They spent many years living in Fruitport, until his retirement from Teledyne Continental Motors, when they moved to Alanson, MI in August 1988. Theresa preceded Charles in death on April 5, 1998. Charles was a very proud veteran, having served in the U.S. Army 106th Division Field Artillery during WWII, both in England and France, He proudly flew the red, white and blue every day at his home. He was also known by many as Santa Claus, having been the official Santa for both the Burt Lake Christian Church and the Burt Lake Community Club of Alanson for many years. Charles was always more than happy to be Santa for any family or organization that asked, accepting only donations for his service, never asking for a fee. He brought Christmas joy to many over the years. Charles was an avid gardener who loved to plant and tend to his many flowers, shrubs, and trees. He loved the outdoors, no matter the season. Charles will always be remembered as a very loving, patient and kind father, grandfather and great-grandfather. SURVIVORS Charles is survived by 3 sons, Charles (wife Denise) Buikema of Virginia, Kenneth (wife Deborah) Buikema of Fruitport, MI, Brian (wife Sheri) Buikema of Muskegon; 4 daughters, Janet Horta of Etowa, TN, Carla Brooks and Dena Buikema both of Muskegon and Lori (Gregory) Johnston of Rapid River, MI, 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; brother, Edward Buikema of Muskegon; 2 sisters-in-law, Pauline Buikema of Muskegon, Nola Murphy of Alanson, MI; special niece, Sandra VanDyke of Fruitport; numerous nieces & nephews; very special friend & neighbor, Al Pallisard of Alanson, MI; and special friend Vicky Rogers of Petoskey, and her two daughters Cora and Marcy. A special thank you to Charles' neighbors Bob and Lila Schiel, along with their children who have helped Charles immensely in the past year. In addition to his wife Theresa, Charles was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Rodney Sparks and John Buikema and sister Milrded (Millie) VanDyke. There will be no visitation or memorial service, at Charles' request. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a Hospice of your choice, your local VFW or a charity of your choice. Arrangements were handled by Clock Life Story Funeral Home-Fruitport.