Florence Belle (Herbert) Hoekstra died at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo Wednesday, Jan. 23, at the age of 81.
Florence was born on June 22, 1937, in Plainwell, the daughter of the late H. Edward and LaBerta (Buskirk) Herbert. She married Albert Hoekstra on June 4, 1954, in Martin.
Florence was very proud to be the oldest and only sister to seven younger brothers. She cherished time spent with family and friends. She and Albert spent several years in California and North Carolina before returning to Michigan. They also enjoyed wintering in Florida, where they made some wonderful friends.
Florence was an avid reader, loved to play cards and socialize with family and friends. She and Al spent many happy days attending bluegrass festivals near and far.
She is survived by her husband, Albert, son, Albert Jr. (Patsy) Hoekstra; two grandchildren, Jon (Amber) Hoekstra and Vanessa (Justin) Tillison; four great-grandchildren, Madelynn, Owen and Everett Hoekstra and Mason Tillison; her brothers, Barry (Linda) Herbert, Frank (Kathleen) Herbert and James (Terry) Herbert; sisters-in-law, Grace Herbert, Gertrude Hoekstra and Marlene Hoekstra and many nieces and nephews including a special niece, Sarah Gorton.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Oren, Lee, Max and Steve Herbert.
According to her wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial celebration will be held at a later time.
Contributions in memory of Florence may be made to Otsego District Public Library.
