I was a fan of the knuckleball, but I was also a fan of the pitcher who threw it, R.A. Dickey. R.A. Dickey, the legendary knuckleballer, was a master of the craft. His unique ability to throw a pitch that defied the laws of physics made him a fan favorite among baseball enthusiasts.

A Life of Love and Legacy

Jack Marema’s life was a testament to the power of enduring love and the importance of leaving a lasting legacy. His 96-year journey was marked by a deep commitment to his family, his faith, and his community. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of the significance of these values and the impact they had on those around him.

A Life of Service

Throughout his life, Jack Marema was dedicated to serving others. He volunteered at various organizations, including the local food bank and the Holland Rescue Mission. His selfless acts of kindness and generosity inspired countless individuals, and his legacy continues to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. Some of his notable achievements include: + Volunteering at the Holland Rescue Mission for over 20 years + Serving on the board of the Holland Food Bank + Participating in numerous charity events and fundraisers

A Family Man

Jack Marema’s love for his family was unwavering. He was married to his high school sweetheart, his wife, for 65 years, until her passing in 2016. Together, they raised three children and became grandparents to six grandchildren. His family was the center of his universe, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Some of his family’s notable achievements include: + Raising three children who went on to become successful in their respective fields + Becoming grandparents to six grandchildren who brought joy and love into his life + Creating a lasting legacy through his family’s stories and traditions

A Legacy of Love

As we celebrate Jack Marema’s life, we are reminded of the importance of love, kindness, and generosity.

Dad mowed the lawn once a week. He used a full Windsor knot in his tie as if he didn’t trust a half Windsor to do the job. He ate the same thing for breakfast and lunch most days. He watched Walter Cronkite at 6:30 and “Wheel of Fortune” at 7. He kept up with oil changes and tire rotations. He counted the offering at church. And yet, there was what we might call the knuckleball effect – unexpected shifts and changes that altered the course of his life profoundly. He was reliable to a fault, but not always predictable to someone who wasn’t paying attention.

The couple met while attending Hope College, where they were both part of the same church group.

A Shared Faith and a Love of Music

The couple’s shared faith and love of music played a significant role in their relationship. Dad’s upbringing in the Reformed Church had a profound impact on his values and worldview. He was deeply committed to his faith and saw it as a guiding force in his life.

The Story Behind the Song

My dad was a musician, and his love for music was contagious. He would often play his guitar and sing along to his favorite songs. One day, he decided to write a song about his mother, and the story behind it is one that I will never forget. The song was called “My Mother’s Lullaby,” and it was a beautiful, melancholic tune that captured the essence of his love for her. The lyrics were deeply personal and spoke of the pain of losing her, but also of the joy and memories they shared. Dad would often sing it to me and my siblings, and it was a special bonding experience for us.

The Unconventional Approach

Dad’s decision to write a song about his mother was unconventional, to say the least. Most people would have written a poem or a letter, but not a song. However, this approach allowed him to express his emotions in a way that was both personal and universal. The song became a way for him to process his grief and come to terms with his loss. It also allowed him to share his love and memories of my mom with others, and to keep her spirit alive. By writing a song, Dad was able to transcend the pain of losing her and find a way to heal.

The Impact on My Family

The song had a profound impact on my family, and it continues to be a source of comfort and inspiration for us today.

However, life had other plans.

The Unexpected Twist

The family’s tranquility was disrupted when Dad’s military service ended, and he was diagnosed with a serious illness. The diagnosis was a shock to the family, and their lives were turned upside down. The family had to adapt to a new reality, where Dad’s health was the top priority. The diagnosis was a turning point in the family’s life, forcing them to re-evaluate their priorities and make difficult decisions. The family had to navigate the healthcare system, seeking the best treatment options for Dad’s condition. The financial burden of medical expenses added to the stress, making it challenging for the family to cope.

The Impact on the Family

The diagnosis had a profound impact on the family, affecting each member in different ways. Mom took on a more prominent role in caring for Dad, sacrificing her own needs and desires. The children were forced to grow up too quickly, taking on more responsibilities and facing new challenges. The family’s social life was disrupted, as they had to prioritize Dad’s health over social engagements.

The Turning Point

The family’s lives were forever changed when they received a second diagnosis – one that would require a major surgery.

We found that Annville was a place where everyone knew everyone, and we felt a sense of belonging that we had never experienced before.

The Unassuming Town

Annville, Kentucky, is a small, rural town with a population of less than 200 residents. It is nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. The town’s isolation and lack of modern amenities make it a unique and challenging place to live.

He was referring to the college’s president, John G. Fee, who was a strong advocate for the rights of the poor and the marginalized.

The Founding of Berea College

Berea College was founded in 1855 by John G. Fee and Thomas D. Denny. The college was established with the goal of providing free education to anyone who was willing to work for it. This innovative approach was revolutionary for its time, as most colleges and universities charged tuition to their students.

I was particularly drawn to the Berea College community, which was founded in 1855 by a group of Quakers who believed in the importance of social justice and equality. The college’s commitment to social responsibility and its focus on the needs of the community resonated deeply with me.

The Influence of Berea College

The college’s emphasis on social justice and equality had a profound impact on my life and work.

He was 75 years old at the time, and I was 17. We were both excited to start this new chapter in our lives.

A New Chapter in Holland

As we settled into our new home, Dad began to explore his roots in Holland. He started attending church services and reconnecting with old friends. It was a time of renewal and rejuvenation for him, and I was happy to see him so carefree and content. Some of the things Dad did to reconnect with his roots include: + Attending church services and participating in community events + Reconnecting with old friends and making new ones + Exploring local history and learning about the town’s heritage + Volunteering at local charities and community organizations

Finding Purpose and Meaning

As Dad continued to settle into his new life in Holland, he began to find purpose and meaning in his life. He started volunteering at a local food bank, where he met new people and felt a sense of fulfillment.

He would say, “I was led to do this, but I don’t know why or how I knew it was right.” This phrase became a mantra for me, a reminder that sometimes the best decisions come from a place of trust and faith.

The Power of Intuition

Intuition is often misunderstood as a vague, unscientific concept. However, research suggests that intuition is a highly developed cognitive ability that can be honed and strengthened through practice and experience. Studies have shown that people who are more intuitive tend to make better decisions, especially in situations where there is incomplete or uncertain information. Intuition can also be a powerful tool for creativity, as it allows individuals to tap into their subconscious mind and access new ideas and perspectives. However, it’s essential to note that intuition is not a replacement for rational thinking, but rather a complementary skill that can be used in conjunction with logical analysis.

A Life of Faith and Intuition

My father’s life was a testament to the power of faith and intuition. He was a man of strong convictions, but he never let his beliefs dictate his actions. Instead, he trusted in a higher power to guide him, and he often found himself making decisions that seemed counterintuitive to those around him. He would often take risks that seemed foolish to others, but he believed that they were necessary for his personal growth and spiritual development.