Elmer Veen

Elmer J. Veen age 91 of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2018 with his family in attendance.  He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Mary Lou and eldest son Albert Paul. He is survived by his brother Don, and sister June (Herrema), his children: Charles (Dee) Veen, Mary Lynn Veen (J.P. Porter), Janet (Mike) Keirns, John (Vickie) Veen, Bette Pintoski (Rick Rector) and Sarah Veen, eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Elmer attended Davis Tech in Grand Rapids.  He then served in the Navy at age 17 aboard the USS Auburn at the end of World War II.  He returned to Grand Rapids to pursue a career as a real estate broker.  He also enjoyed a lengthy career as chief appraiser for the Department of Housing and Urban Development. In retirement, he continued to work as an appraiser throughout Northern Michigan and served as a member of the Clearwater Twp., Board near their beloved home on the Rapid River in Alden, MI.  He enjoyed taking and giving rides on his pontoon boat, many woodworking projects, visiting the local casinos as well as entertaining all who came to visit on the river and "Camp Elmer".  He loved taking kids (big or small) on golf cart rides.

 The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at The Village of Heather Hills where he resided over the past 5+ years as well as the caring staff of Spectrum Blodgett Hospital, especially 3E Orthopedics floor. The family welcomes donations to The Village of Heather Hills Activities Dept. or a charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday June 29, 2018 at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with visitation one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1pm.  A reception will be held immediately following the service at The Village of Heather Hills, 1055 Forest Hill Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.

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