Donald Frelier

Donald Allen Frelier, age 85, of Grand Rapids passed away peacefully on Thursday January 11, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. 

Don was born in Rochester, NY on August 2, 1938, the son of Harold and Rachel (Bruinsma) Frelier. He graduated from East High School in Rochester, NY in 1956 and moved to Grand Rapids the same year. He served in the United States Navy until he was honorably discharged in 1962. After his service to his country, he completed his studies at Calvin College with a BA in Mathematics. After earning his degree, he began his 43 years of service as a Mechanical Engineer with the Marshall and Wells Company, eventually becoming President of the company.

Don was a man of devout faith and lived his life in service to the Lord. He was a longtime member of Calvary Church. Don loved his family above anything else and cherished his time with his children and grandchildren. An avid fisherman, Don was known to drop his pole in any body of water he came upon.

On September 8, 1961 he was united in marriage to Carol A. Sytsma, who survives him.  Also surviving are his two sons Jeffrey Frelier of San Diego, CA, Steven and Lisa Frelier of Chesterfield, VA, and his daughter, Kristin Rives of Atlanta, GA. Don is also survived by his 7 beloved grandchildren, Bethany Frelier of Richmond, VA; Amelia Frelier of Norfolk, VA; Charles Frelier of San Diego, CA; Anna Rives of Atlanta, GA; Caleb Frelier of Blacksburg, VA; Brendan Rives of Atlanta, GA; and Evelyn Frelier of Chesterfield, VA. He is preceded in death by his oldest sister, Joyce Hoadley, and is survived by his sisters Sandra Woodwyk, Gail Kissel, and Linda McGrath.

The family will receive friends at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Chapel, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, with funeral services immediately following at 2:00 PM.

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