Arthur Talsma

TALSMA, Arthur "Ray" - Age 89, of Linden, died peacefully at home on October 10, 2015. Services will be held 10 AM Thursday, October 15, 2015 at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Rd., Holly. Those desiring may make contributions to Fenton Adopt A Pet. Ray was born July 25, 1926 in Detroit, the son of Arthur Edward and Catherine Louise (Sherff) Talsma. He was married to Catherine "Kay" Fairbairn on July 28, 1951; she preceded him in death on July 20, 2012. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving in WWII and retired from AC Spark Plug in 1988 with over 30 years of service. Ray was a great storyteller, with a gift of embellishing. He was musically talented, could make "anything but dinner" and enjoyed a nice single malt. He was a member of the Elks Lodge, Elf Khurafeh Shrine, where he played in the Glee Club and a lifetime member of Flint Lodge #23 F.&A.M. He is survived by his children, Gary (Lynn) Talsma, Linda (Steve) Blackmer, David (Denise) Talsma, Lisa Myers; eight grandchildren, Jack and David (Ayako) Talsma, Brett and Blake Blackmer, Lindsey (Phil) Simmons, Lauren Talsma, Gillian and Mackenzie O'Hara; great-grandchildren, Layla, Mya, Rex, Sidney and one on the way; sister-in-law, Wilma Fairbairn; nieces, Debby and Susie; his main man, Buggi; He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Catherine; brother-in-law (who was like a brother), John Fairbairn; best friend, John Myers Sr. A special thanks to Steve, Ray's wing man. Online condolences may be posted on the obituaries page of www.sharpfuneralhomes.com

Funeral Service

Thursday, October 15, 2015 10:00 AM
Great Lakes National Cemetery
4200 Belford Road Holly 48442, United States