John Bylsma

DELMAR- John R. Bylsma, Sr., 90, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 after a brief illness surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Albany and was the son of the late Garrit and Johanna Bylsma. John was a graduate of Albany High School and served in the US Navy Intelligence during WWII in Washington, DC. He was a plumber and steam fitter for Local #7 and worked for several major contracting companies. John had a love of life and animals and rode his beloved horse Murphy until he was 85. He was a member of the Bethlehem Masonic Lodge #85. John is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Jean K. Bylsma; he was the devoted father of Merelyn J. Stewart (David), John R. Bylsma, Jr. (Vicki), Steven M. Bylsma (Karen), Kimberly R. Bylsma and Roberta K. Racicot (Tom); and his sister Gertrude VanDerhorst. He was also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. John was predeceased by son-in-law James Thompson and daughter-in-law Susan Bylsma. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of Community Hospice at St. Peter's Hospital. They were wonderful to our dad. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 10, 2012 at 11am in the Delmar Reformed Church, 386 Delaware Ave., Delmar. A private burial will follow in Bethlehem Cemetery. Those who wish to remember John may make memorial contributions to the Delmar Reformed Church, or the Tribute Garden at the Bethlehem Cemetery, P.O. Box 456, Glenmont, NY 12077.