Martin Timothy Heerema

Martin Timothy Heerema, born on September 11, 1965, to Martin Bruce and Sandy (Klein) Heerema in Pella, Iowa, peacefully departed this life on March 9, 2024 at the age of 58.

Tim, as he was fondly known, spent his formative years in Pella, where he cultivated a deep love for his community and a passion for life that would resonate with all who knew him. After beginning his academic journey at Central College, Tim's adventurous spirit led him to Arizona State University, where he completed his bachelor's degree in Business Marketing before pursuing his Juris Doctorate at the University of Iowa.

A man of many talents, Tim's professional journey saw him excel in various arenas. From his days as a dedicated attorney in his hometown to his role as Co-CEO at Heritage Lace, Inc., Tim's dedication and leadership left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working alongside him. He retired in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, integrity, and unwavering commitment.

In 1993, Tim embarked on the most beautiful journey of all, marrying his best friend and soulmate, Kelly Huerter. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories, blessed with the arrival of their two beloved children, Martin Brady and Gabrielle Marie.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tim was a man of profound faith and devotion. His love for the Lord was evident in every aspect of his life, from his active involvement in Bible study groups to his impactful role at Third Church and various mission trips undertaken to spread the word of God.

Tim's generous spirit extended beyond his religious endeavors, as he dedicated his time and resources to numerous charitable causes and foundations, embodying the true essence of compassion and altruism.

An avid sports enthusiast, Tim found joy in cheering on his favorite teams, including the Green Bay Packers, Iowa State Cyclones, and New York Yankees. His eclectic taste in music and film, with a penchant for the classics of the 70s and 80s, Metal/Rock genres, and iconic movies like Star Wars, Dances with Wolves, and The Shawshank Redemption, brought him endless delight and entertainment.

Tim's adventurous soul found solace in exploration, as he traversed the globe, immersing himself in diverse cultures and experiences across countries such as Greece, Italy, Egypt, Turkey, Israel, Germany, Netherlands, Kenya, Tanzania, Brazil, Belize, Canada, China, Mexico, Jamaica, and beyond.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Kelly, their children, Martin Brady and Gabrielle Marie, his mother, Sandy Heerema, his parents-in-law, Gene and Gail Huerter, his sister, Julie and Jim Mueller, and brother, Steve and Vicki Heerema, and his brother-in-law, Korey and Kristy Huerter and several nieces and nephews.

Tim was preceded in death by his beloved father, Martin Bruce Heerema, whose memory he carried with him always, a guiding light in his journey through life.

In the hearts of those who knew him, Tim's spirit will live on eternally, his legacy of love, faith, and kindness serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

A celebration of Tim's life will be held at Third Reformed Church on March 19, 2024, where family and friends will gather to honor and remember the extraordinary man whose presence illuminated the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Well and 725 Ministries, in honor of Tim's lifelong commitment to serving others and making the world a brighter place. Forever remembered, forever cherished, Tim's spirit will continue to shine brightly, a testament to a life lived with purpose, passion, and profound love. May he rest in eternal peace, his memory forever engraved in the hearts of those who loved him dearly.

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