Franklin Holwerda

Franklin Holwerda, age 92 of Lowell, was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus Christ, his Lord and Savior on November 8, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Jennie Holwerda; brother, Edward Holwerda; and sister, Fran Vandenberg. Frank is survived by his wife, Geraldine “Gerri” Holwerda; children, Nancy (Ron) Courser, Cherie Veen, Paul (Susan) Holwerda, Mark (Linda) Holwerda; and 10 grandchildren; step-children, Bryan (Jackie) Ortowski, Stacy (Robert) Thomas; grandchildren, Nichelle (Josh) Wetzel, Cassandra Thomas, Jacob Thomas, Amanda Pennington; great-grandchildren, Ryleigh Wetzel, Max Wetzel, Ryder Pennington; good friends, Paul, Joanne, Karen, Brad, Ellie, and many others.

Frank was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, serving his country honorably during the Korean War. He was a steadfast proponent of civil liberties, freedom, free markets, independence from politics, and supported Christian education. Guided by integrity and an unwavering work ethic, Frank dedicated his life to building and achieving. He founded and operated the Franklin Holwerda Company, a mechanical contracting business he led for over 30 years — a company that continues to thrive today.

Even in retirement, Frank’s determination and curiosity never waned. He turned his love of animals into thriving ventures, owning Holwerda Farms, where he raised Angus cattle, as well as F&G Racing where he trained and raced horses. He found great joy in sharing his passion for animals with others.

Frank was a man of intellect and deep thought; known for his many sayings and the wisdom they carried. He often said he was “impelled by his principles to do well,” and lived by the belief to “never ask a question you don’t have an answer for,” and to “wake up every day with a new plan and a challenge to overcome.” Avidly well-read and well-versed in countless subjects — including law — Frank was a lifelong learner with a sharp mind and keen attention to detail.

Driven, hardworking, and endlessly active, Frank had many interests and hobbies that reflected his wide-ranging curiosity about the world. He was rarely seen without a few pens and notecards tucked neatly into his shirt pocket — always prepared to capture a thought, an idea, or an inspiration. Above all, Frank hoped that his life’s work and example would leave a lasting impact and a positive legacy — one grounded in principle, perseverance, purpose, and a strong faith in God.

Frank lived a full life; there was no stopping him once he set his mind to something — he simply ran out of time here. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Memorial services will be held at 11am on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Roth-Gerst Funeral Home 305 N. Hudson, Lowell, Michigan, 49331, with visitation one hour prior. Interment Oakwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be directed to Corewell Health Hospice, Checks payable to Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan, 25 Michigan St NE, Suite 4100 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or FROM (Flat River Outreach Ministries), 11535 Fulton St. E, Lowell, MI 49331.