Alvin John Poortenga Obituary

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Alvin John Poortenga of Colon, Michigan, born in Lansing, Illinois, who passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 82, leaving to mourn family and friends. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.

He was predeceased by: his parents, Peter A. Poortenga and Ann Poortenga (Ipema); his wife Shirley Ann Poortenga; his great grandchild Kasey Castellanos; his siblings, Delores Jean Poortenga, Karen Poortenga and Peter Poortenga Jr.; and his brothers-in-law, Chuck Underwood and Jerry Watts.

He is survived by: his girlfriend Carol Speece of Colon, Michigan; his children, Pamela (Remo Garritano), Michael (Kelli Poortenga), Robin Poortenga of Jacksonville, FL and Crystal (Daniel Powers); his great grandchild Rachael Spires; his siblings, Ruth Underwood, Elaine (Dewey Vander Noord), Sandy (John Heys), Bob (Linda Poortenga), Dave Poortenga and Lois (Dave Nelson); and his sister-in-law Sharyn Watts. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to offer expressions of sympathy are encouraged to make a memorial contribution to either Boys Town: PO Box 8000, Boys Town, NE 68010 or St Jude Children's Research Hospital: 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.