Age 70, went to be with the Lord on December 6, 2023, after facing many health struggles. He was born in Kalamazoo on March 3, 1953, the son of the late Gerald and Dorothy (Gerlofs) Hoeksema. Dennis was raised in the Christian faith which served as the foundation of his character. He had a kind smile, wonderful sense of humor and was a joy to know. He loved the Lord, his family and his friends and he will be missed by all who knew him. On June 19, 1976, he married Susan (Schwabauer) Hoeksema who survives. Together they made Kalamazoo their home. They enrolled their children in the Kalamazoo Christian School system and remained lifelong supporters of a Christ centered education.  Dennis worked hard at the family greenhouse and always gave generously of his time and gifts. He was a jack of all trades who loved to weld, tinker and could fix almost anything. When not working he enjoyed spending time with family and friends and liked having coffee with his uncles and cousins. Dennis’s greatest joy came from watching his grandchildren grow. A grandfather who was ‘just down the road’ or a ‘phone call away’, his heart and home were always open. He loved staying up to date on their latest activities, and he rarely missed a sporting event or chance to support and encourage his grandchildren. He was a former member of First Reformed Church of Portage, Centerpoint Church and was currently attending Calvary Bible Church. Dennis leaves behind the legacy of a life of faith and commitment. Along with his wife Susan, he is survived by three children, Scott Hoeksema, Dan (Jonni) Hoeksema, Jen (Ryan) Rykse; grandchildren, Jaiden, Landon, Ellie, Makenna Hoeksema, Ty, Shane, Luke, Nora, Layla, Annalyse and Tobias Rykse; siblings, Larry (Kathy) Hoeksema, Randy (Sandy) Hoeksema and David (Julie) Hoeksema; in-laws, David (Sue) Schwabauer, Larry (Judy) Schwabauer and Jerry (Jane) Schwabauer; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.