Gerrit Elzinga

Gerrit L. Elzinga, age 92 of Charlevoix passed away on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at The Brook Retirement Home of Boyne City.

Gerrit was born on October 17, 1928 in Charlevoix to Harry and Esther (Beattie) Elzinga and he lived most of his life in the Charlevoix area.

His wife, Ethel (Bost) Elzinga, preceded him in death in July 2012 and his infant son, Gary in 1954.  He is also preceded in death by several siblings, including his sister Rose Elzinga in 2016.

Gerrit, a Korean War veteran, began his work career in county and private road construction, working on major Michigan highways such as I75, I96 and I94.  He later retired from American Mold Engineering.  Gerrit enjoyed farming, including raising beef cattle, as well watching Tiger Baseball and having a cold beer.

Gerrit is survived by his son, Terry (Susan) Elzinga of Boyne City, daughter, Becky (Douglas) Brimley of Mason and step-son Michael (Claudia) Bost of Charlevoix; Brothers Harrison (Shirley) and Charles (Bonnie) Elzinga of Charlevoix; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews, including special nieces Jean (Elzinga) Dougherty and Carla (Elzinga) Hopkins; and his dear friend, Martha Duve.

The family would like to thank the fantastic caregivers at The Brook of Boyne City and Intelicare Hospice (Gaylord) for their help during this time.

Honoring Gerrit’s wishes, cremation will take place and no services are being planned at this time.  Interment will take place at the Atwood Cemetery (Ellsworth) at a later date, where he will be buried alongside his infant son, Gary.

Arrangements are in the care of the Winchester Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Home.

Gerrit was a member of the Barnard United Methodist Church in Charlevoix.  Memorial donations can be directed to the Barnard United Methodist Church, 01362 Matchett Road, Charlevoix, MI  49720 or a charity of their choice in memory of Gerrit.

Family and friends wishing to share a thought or memory are encouraged to do so online at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com