Fred Huizinga, Jr.

Fred Huizinga, Jr., age 90, loving husband of 68 years to Janet (Bosma). Dear dad to Cindy (Todd) Wessels, Darlene (Ken) Bulthuis, Lynda (Russ) Clousing, and Tom (Marcia). Cherished grandpa to Anne Marie (Kyle) Stambaugh, Ben (Alyssa) Wessels, Jon (Brittany) Wessels, Amy (Dustin) Huckstep, Dawn (Dave) Fleischmann, Rita (Nate) Tameling, Rose (Bryce) VanDeWalker, Russell (JoAnna) Clousing, Rachelle (Brandon) Bourdo, Daniel (Maddy) Huizinga, Tim (Kaytlin) Huizinga, and Matt (Mary) Huizinga. Special “Papa Fred” to 27 great-grandchildren with 2 more on the way. Devoted son of the late Fred Huizinga, Sr., and late Nellie. Dear brother of Grace (late Garry, late Chuck Hanstra) Voogt, the late Sylvia (Ted) Postema, Allen (Mary), Don (Dorothy), and Harry (Mary). Fond brother-in-law of the late Bernice Bosma, Alvin (late Marilyn, late Estelle) Bosma, Andy (Bev and late Judy).

Fred was a teacher and principal for Southwest Chicago Christian Schools for 37 years. He served in three campuses: Evergreen Park, Oak Lawn, and Tinley Park. He was respected by staff and students alike. During summer breaks from school, Fred held various jobs such as driving a semi, a tanker, or a concrete truck and he also worked as a painter.

Following his retirement, he volunteered with Orland Church to visit those who were sick or shut-ins from their church. Jan joined him in this venture and they shared cookies, Scrabble, and Scripture with many. Fred spent a lot of years volunteering at Pass It On Thrift Center, driving for the Oasis ministry for the visually impaired, and also volunteered for Crossroads Prison Ministry for 15 years.

He was a life-long fan of the Cubs. Fred never wavered in his enthusiasm despite many losing seasons and was finally rewarded by being able to watch the Cubs win the World Series in 2016.

Fred’s children have wonderful memories of family camping trips to many states and to Canada with borrowed campers and motor homes. Fred and Jan’s favorite place to visit was Das Essenhaus Inn in Shipshewana. They traveled there many times over the years, well into their 80s. They were also known to take day trips which their children called their “cute little rides.”

Fred was a committed Christian who served many terms as a church elder. He was a strong family leader who shared his beliefs with his children. His legacy continues through his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Fred and Jan’s love and commitment to each other was evident to many and they were often seen holding hands. They set an example for a strong Christian marriage to their children and grandchildren.

Fred loved music and often sang his favorite hymns around the house. He was one of the founding members of the Men-of-A-Chord and enjoyed many years of concerts with that group as well as singing in the church choir. We believe he is now singing with a heavenly choir and offering praise to his Lord.

Visitation Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 3-5 p.m. at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. Funeral Service Monday, June 22, 2026, at Orland Park Christian Reformed Church, 7500 Sycamore Dr., Orland Park, IL at 10:00 a.m. The recording of the Funeral Service is posted below. Burial private at Chapel Hill Gardens South, Oak Lawn, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Southwest Chicago Christian Schools, 12001 S. Oak Park Avenue, Palos Heights, IL 60463 CLICK HERE TO DONATE ONLINE or to Aicardi Foundation in support of their special needs great-granddaughter, 1003 W Indiantown Road, Suite 210, Jupiter, FL 33458 CLICK HERE TO DONATE ONLINE .

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400