Edward L. Bruinsma's Obituary
Edward L. Bruinsma, age 72, of St. Clair County area went to be with the Lord surrounded by his family on September 5, 2025. He was born in the Netherlands on November 7, 1952 to the late William and Susan Bruinsma. Ed grew up in Holland, MI area where he graduated from Holland Christian High School, class of 1970. He went on to Wayne State University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in mortuary science. Following mortuary school, Ed earned his Master’s degree from Concordia University, Ann Arbor. He married Kelly Ann Marcotte on August 20, 1983 at Hosanna-Tabor Church, Redford, MI. Kelly preceded him in death on December 15, 2005.
Ed worked diligently as a Funeral Director for over 40 years. He took great pride in caring for families during difficult times. His compassion and generosity coupled with his ability to socialize and empathize with families, often left families feeling very comforted when he was assisting them. Ed began his apprenticeship at Ford Funeral Home, Center Line. He went on to work for Kaufman Chapel, Southfield for several years. Ed spent the bulk of his career at Kaul Funeral Home, St. Clair Shores. He then went up north to work for Bannon Funeral Home, Alpena as well as Sisson Funeral Home, Gladwin. Ed decided to come back home to be closer to his children and grandchildren. The last few years of his career he worked for Bagnasco Calcatara, St. Clair Shores and Pollock Randall Funeral Home, Port Huron. As well as assisting numerous other funeral homes when he was “off” for work. Ed served families all over the state, treating each family like they were his own.
Ed was an active member at all the churches he attended. He met and volunteered with numerous people who later became friends. Ed served on the board at St. John Lutheran Church, Fraser. Immanuel Lutheran Church, St. Clair. Lastly, serving on the council as a dedicated member at Faith Lutheran Church, Port Huron.
Ed lived a dedicated life. He was a selfless individual; who always put others needs before his own. Aside from his career, he and Kelly fostered numerous children throughout the years. His devotion to those in his life is unmatched. Ed’s sense of humor; stories, jokes, and one-liners will be missed by all who knew him.
Ed is survived by his children Kevin (Heather) Bruinsma, Kathy (Andrew) Kryzaniwskyj, Robert Bruinsma, Kory Bruinsma, Karin (William) Sasser, Kristi-Allyn Bruinsma, Randall Bruinsma, Christopher Bruinsma, James Bruinsma, Jenna Bruinsma, Karissa Bruinsma; loving Paké to, Lillian, Zackery, Aiden, Dominik, Riley, Rhomiromar, Ella, Ezra, Karianna, Ezekiel, Sapphira, Quinn, Selena, Sawyer, Hadley, Isabella, Braylon, Zayn, Kyra, Bosten, Jorja; 1 great granddaughter on the way; siblings, Annette (Bill) Byl, Dirk (Pam) Bruinsma, Ann (Tom) Orange, Tina (Jim) Bratt, Sid (Trudy) Bruinsma, Henry (Margaret) Bruinsma, Audry (John) Rose, as well as several nieces, nephews, family members and friends.
Ed is preceded in death by his brother, Wiebren Bruinsma; and granddaughter, Grace Sasser.
A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, September 10th at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, Port Huron. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday, September 9th from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Young Colonial Chapel Funeral Home, China Twp. As well as from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church on Wednesday prior to service. Interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery, St. Clair. Memorials are suggested to Blue Water Hospice or Faith Lutheran Church. To leave a message of comfort visit www.youngcolonial.com
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