Theodore Bouwkamp

Theodore Stevens Bouwkamp, age 78, peacefully passed away October 6, 2021 at American House in Holland, Michigan.

Ted was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on November 29, 1942 to Theodore J. and Vanessa B. (Stevens) Bouwkamp. As a young child, he was doted on by his mother while his father served in Europe during World War II. Ted became active in the Boy Scouts and was proud to have moved up the ranks to become an Eagle Scout. He attended Michigan Oak Grade School and graduated from East Grand Rapids High School in 1960. After attending Grand Rapids Junior College, Ted went on to study and graduate from Western Michigan University with a Business Degree in 1964. He worked for several insurance companies before he purchased an agency in Lapeer, Michigan.
Ted married Shirley Byrd in 1974, and together they raised their beloved son, Christopher Ted Bouwkamp. They enjoyed traveling together in and outside of the country. They built a beautiful home in Metamora, Michigan. Ted sold his insurance agency in 2006 and moved to Bradenton, Florida, enjoying beautiful weather and wonderful friends.
Throughout his life Ted enjoyed spending time with friends and held special relationships with his life-long friend, Randy Dykman in Holland; his friend, Gene Burnside in Florida; his brother-in-law, Dorsey Byrd in Indiana; and his brother-in-law, Jerry Duette in Mississippi.

Ted was preceded in death by his father, Theodore J. Bouwkamp, his mother, Vanessa (Stevens) Bouwkamp, his wife, Shirley (Byrd) Bouwkamp, and his son, Christopher Ted Bouwkamp, all of whom were greatly missed.

Ted was a sweet, gentle soul who was well liked by everyone he met. He was always a gentleman, very kind and generous. He was loved and will be greatly missed.