Stuart Poel

Stuart Poel, age 99, died peacefully at home after a short illness on December 22, 2024, surrounded by family. He was born December 9, 1925, to the late J. Nyhof and Christine (Bonema) Poel.

Stu attended Hope College for a semester before enlisting in the Army Air Corps, where he proudly served in World War II. After the war, he finished his math degree at Western Michigan College. He married Arlene Wentland on August 28, 1954, in Portage, Wisconsin. She preceded him in death on January 4, 2000.

Stu was an accountant before retiring and was a lifelong resident of the Tri-Cities. He enjoyed living on Lake Michigan. Some of his favorite pastimes included enjoying the beach, sunsets, tending to his garden and his beloved hydrangeas, feeding the birds, traveling and listening to jazz music.

He is survived by his brother Richard, sons Greg (Barb), Jeff (Akiko) and Chris (Sachiko) and daughters Lori and Bette Jo (Ken) Chudy, many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on January 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the American Legion Post 28. Stu was a member there for 77 years.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice or the West Michigan Jazz Society.