Klaas "Dutch" Haitsma

Klaas “Dutch”  Haitsma, age 82, passed away on Sunday, January 27, 2019 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 6, 1937 in Schraard, Netherlands to Klaas and Anna Haitsma.  He married Bonnie Brown on July 18, 1969 at Faith Tabernacle in Elkhart.

Klaas worked as an instrument buffer for CG Conn and the former WT Armstrong currently United. He was the owner of Haitsma carpet and upholstery cleaning service. His cleaning career took him to Mennonite Mutual Aid, the California Road Orthopedic Clinic and the oral surgical center amongst others. When he was not busy cleaning, he enjoyed landscaping.  Klaas was the trustee at Whosoever Will Worship Center for several years. He loved his family and grandchildren and spending time with them. He also loved his animals, especially his buddy, Dinky.

Klaas is survived by his wife of 49 years, Bonnie Haitsma, children; Bob Haitsma of Cody, WY, Tony Haitsma of Goshen, Dawn (Brian) Desimone of Elkhart and Steve Haitsma of Elkhart. His brother Ruurd (Jantje) Haitsma of Heerenveen, Netherlands, his grandchildren; Tyler, Delaynie, Aaron, Marisa, Jennifer, Jared, Katrina, Jordon, Anthony, Gabby, Gianna, Cane and Coen and a great-grandson Everett. Klaas was preceded in death by son Eric Haitsma, grandson Brandon Cameron and twelve brothers and sisters, including his sister, Marijke, whom he shared a special bond with.

Friends may visit with family on Friday February 1, 2019 from 4 to 7pm at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd, Elkhart. Funeral services will on Saturday February 2, 2019 at 12pm at the funeral home with visitation one hour prior. Rev. Earl Hosler will officiate. Burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Whosoever Will Worship Center or Humane Society of Elkhart County. Online condolences for the Haitsma family may be made at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com