Geraldine Terpstra

Geraldine L. "Jerry" Terpstra, nee Bensema, age 94, beloved wife of the late Melvin Terpstra (1989). Loving mother of Dr. Dale (Mary) Terpstra, Gale (William) Meyer, Melvin Terpstra and Valerie (Glenn) Bruinius. Cherished grandmother of Andrew (Ashley) Terpstra, Jacob (Emily) Terpstra; Jamie (Jim) Sellhorn, Michelle Meyer, William (Jennifer) Meyer, Kathryn Meyer; Kaitlyn (Kevin) Voss, Emily (Mitchell) Warren, Megan Bruinius, Samantha (Bryan) Soto Estrella and James Bruinius. Dearest great-grandmother of 14 and great-great-grandmother of 2. Dear sister of the late Frank Bensema.

Jerry lived life as a devoted housewife, mother and grandmother. She always lived to serve others (often providing for others' needs), sharing her faith, volunteering at church, supporting faith-based organizations financially and participating in events.

Jerry loved to invite people to spend time at her Cedar Lake cottage and provided for all with her gift of unselfish hospitality.

She loved to travel with dad and often went on tours with friends to many places throughout the world (Hawaii, Netherlands, Europe, China and the Holy Land). She continued to enjoy travel tours after being widowed (often bus tours--Branson, MO was a favorite!) as well as attending social events--especially if there was a luncheon!

Jerry loved music--hymns, gospel favorites, Handel's Messiah, choirs and loved playing the organ at home always playing by ear.

Visitation Friday, November 13, 2020 , from 4-8 p.m. Funeral Service Saturday, November 14, 2020 , 10:00 a.m. at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. To uphold safety guidelines, all guests are asked to wear a mask and respect social distancing requirements. A live-stream of the service will be available, please visit Jerry's obituary on Colonial Chapel's website at colonialchapel.com. Interment Chapel Hill Gardens South, Oak Lawn, IL.

Below is the video recording of Jerry's Funeral Service held on Satuday, November 14, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.


In lieu of flowers, memorials to The Bible League International or Back to God Ministries are appreciated.

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