Ronald E. Buikema

Ronald Buikema, age 74, of Naples, FL, formerly of South Holland, IL passed away, peacefully, on Friday, December 21, 2018.  Beloved husband of Arlene Buikema, nee Smits.  Loving father of Jori (David) Ebbens, Timothy (Beth) Buikema, and Darryl (Joyce) Buikema.  Devoted grandfather of Ashley (Dan) Krygsheld, Kelsey and Noah Ebbens; Bryn and Paige Buikema; and Brandon, Grant, and Brooke Buikema and great-grandfather of Olivia, Landon, and Elliot Krygsheld. Dear brother of Edward (Yvonne) Buikema, Roger (Lois) Buikema, and the late Marvin Buikema. Preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Effie Buikema. Ron is remembered by his family as a hard-working man who made many sacrifices during his life for all of them.  He spent many years of his life working as a butcher, not only because he enjoyed the trade, but also because he really enjoyed talking with people and making them laugh and that gave him an opportunity to do that.  Ron touched everyone he met with his smile, kindness and gentleness.  Most of all, Ron loved and cherished his family and enjoyed every minute of the time he had with them.

Visitation with the family will be held on Sunday, December 23, 2018 from 2:00 - 7:00 P.M. at the Smits, DeYoung-Vroegh Funeral Home, 649 E. 162 ^nd St. (Rt.6/159 ^th St.) South Holland, IL.  Funeral service, Monday, December 24, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Richard Zekveld officiating.  Interment at Oak Ridge Cemetery – Lansing, IL.  Memorial contributions may be given to Dysautonomia International c/o Ellen Kessler, C.P.A. 6151 Executive Blvd. Rockville, MD  20852. For further info please contact 708-333-7000 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com.