Harold (Hal) Horlings

Harold (Hal) John Horlings, age 78, of Rockford, MI entered his heavenly home in the early morning hours of December 28, 2018.  Hal is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Karen, his sons Rod (Raelynn Claire) Horlings, Joseph (Julie) Horlings, and Corby (Carrie) Horlings; stepchildren Chris (Jill) Larsen, and Sarah (Kevin) Wilson, as well as sisters Winifred (Rich) Gleason, and Henrietta Horlings. Happy memories of Hal will also be cherished by his 12 grandchildren and a host of Canadian cousins and nephews.  Hal was preceded in death by his first wife, Janet (Moll) Horlings, his mother, Henrietta, and his father, George, each of whom had a significant influence on Hal’s life, helping form his Christian faith and life values.  Hal was born on August 17, 1940 in Newmarket, Ontario, and earned his Associate’s Degree at Calvin College. While attending Calvin, he met his first wife, Jan, married and raised his family, and eventually earned American citizenship in the early 1980’s.  During his 30 year career in the produce business, Hal was instrumental in launching a large scale fresh produce distribution platform at Sysco Frost‑Pack rising to the position of Director of Produce. Hal nourished his sense of creativity through a lifelong love of music, becoming an advanced keyboardist and for many years a pianist and organist at his church, Immanuel Reformed. He also served as a church deacon and volunteer.  Through life’s challenges and achievements, he looked for the good in others and demonstrated his love for family and friends with quiet encouragement and generosity.  Visitation will be on Thursday, January 3, from 3‑5pm and 7‑9pm at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4291 Cascade Road SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546.  Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Friday, January 4, at Immanuel Reformed Church, 1300 E. Beltline Ave., with a visitation one hour prior to service time.  In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to the American Heart Assoc. of West MI.

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