Louis “Lou” James Fierens, surrounded by his loving family, age 84, of East Grand Rapids, left this world to be with God Apr 15, 2014. Lou was born Aug 24, 1929 in Bay City, MI to James and Grace Fierens (Gunterman).
Lou was a Bay City Central graduate and served his country in the Air Force and the Army. Upon discharge from the service, he attended Western Michigan University on a football scholarship, graduating in 1956. Lou then began his professional career with Associated Truck Lines (ANR Freight Systems) rising through the ranks to become Senior Vice President until his retirement. Not entirely comfortable in retirement, Lou began a second career working as a senior executive for Nationwide Transportation until his second retirement. Lou was an ardent outdoorsman, loving to spend time hunting and fishing, especially with his children. Lou was active in competitive field trialing. He founded Timberlane Kennels and finished many Field Champions over the years. He served on the board of the West Michigan Beagle Club and was President of both the Midwestern and International Beagle Federations. Lou was also a Freemason.
Lou is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Fierens (Borchers) of East Grand Rapids; brothers, Richard Fierens (Sally) of Essexville, and James Fierens (Marlene) of Reed City; sisters, Joyce Grigg (Dale) of Bay City, and Charlotte Thayer (Jerry) of Alger; daughters, Julie Daly (Mike) of East Grand Rapids, Lisa Victor of Greenville, and Wendy Thomas (Dan) of Grand Haven; sons, Louis Fierens (Michelle) of Bingham Farms, and Bill Fierens (Margaret) of Beaver Falls, PA. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Peter and Grace Daly of East Grand Rapids, Brendon and Emily Thomas of Grand Haven, Erin Tobin of Phoenix, AZ, Stephanie, Samantha, Skylar Fierens, Lindsay Colleen, Aryana, Bryana, and Mysha Bryan of Bingham Farms, Amanda and Kate Fierens of Beaver Falls, PA. He is also survived by a wonderful and diverse group of friends from his professional and personal activities.
A memorial service to celebrate Lou’s life is planned for family and friends Apr 25th at 11 m at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI. A private funeral service for immediate family will follow.
To honor his memory in lieu of flowers for those so moved, donations may be made to Emmanuel Hospice, 2161 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, East Grand Rapids Team Boosters (Football Program), or East Grand Rapids Schools Foundation (Special Education Program), Attn: Amy Stuursma, 2915 Hall Street SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506. A full life well lived.