"I just realized that you lost your husband Pam when I saw your posting with picture. I am so incredibly sorry. Sending thoughts your way for comfort and healing. He was my favorite "pop man"."
In loving memory of
Dennis J. Herrema
June 13, 1947 - August 9, 2019
Dennis Jay Herrema, age 72 of Monroe, passed away on Friday, August 9, 2019 at Comfort House in Pella, Iowa. Memorial services will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Newton Church of the Way in Newton, Iowa. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, August 14, 2019 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the same church in Newton. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Jasper County Habitat for Humanity, the DMACC Newton Campus Building Trades Program, or Hospice of Pella (Comfort House). Condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com
The son of Martin and Dena (Noteboom) Herrema, Denny was born on June 13, 1947 in Artesia, California. He graduated from Valley Christian High School (Artesia) in 1965 and Central College (Pella) in 1969 with a degree in Physical Education. On June 14, 1969, he was married to Kathy Allen until 1995. Together they had two children - Jenny and David. On May 20, 2000, he married Pam Wilson. Denny taught and coached in the Monroe School District for a decade. He then started and taught the Building Trades Program at Newton High School until 1991. During this time he, along with students, built 11 homes and remodeled the train depot in Newton. After teaching, he moved on to being a full-time contractor (Herrema Construction) and loved building and remodeling his client's homes. He had a passion for the Jasper County Habitat for Humanity and sat on their Board of Directors while also building many of their homes over the years. Denny attended the Newton Church of the Way. He enjoyed sports, going to his Galena house, traveling to be with family, visiting with friends, and working on his many projects.
Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Pam; two children, Jenny (Justin) Purcell and David (Kim) Herrema; two step children, Eric Dykstra and Meghan (Keysto) Kelly; six grandchildren, Britney and Blake Samuelson, Olivia and Gavin Herrema and Kage and Brexton Kelly. Denny is also survived by his mother, Dena and three sisters, Shirley Watkins, Mary (Ray) Olson and Betty DeBoer. Preceding him in death were his father in 2001, a brother, Larry Herrema, a step daughter, Dana Samuelson and a sister, Diane Smith.
Tributes
"Dennis was the guy in our group growing up and we had a choice of basketball of playing Monopoly if we were visiting their house. Lots of memories of high school sports and activities with friends. We just had a visit in June and will value that time now for the rest of my life. Loads of Love cousin Phyllis Perez"
"Dennis was my first cousin - there were 4 of us born in 1947; 3 girls and Denny. Growing up he was always fun to be around and was patient with all us girls. He will be greatly missed. "
"I will always remember Denny for the fun times we had at countless Missouri family gatherings! He was often my canoeing partner (thankfully) golf partner and on a few occasions we even hiked up Mudlick Mtn. Those were great times - great memories! He was a caring guy with a good sense of humor. Gone from us too soon but we know that our loss is Heaven's gain."
"Having survived on the Board of the Monroe Presbyterian Church I liked and respected Denny very much. Gil Christianson Houston,Tx."
"Pam, Meghan, and family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. "
"So many memories of Denny growing up! Fran Kidder"
"Dennis was always so friendly and happy. Always remember his response to the question (Whats your problem) I avoided asking it."
"So sorry to hear of your loss. Denny was a great caring man."
"My thoughts are with you all. Denny was a great man and I enjoyed the wonderful times at the Galena house. "