Margaret Balkema

Margaret “Marge” (Ernst) Balkema, 88, of Pompton Plains, went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, May 10, 2026.

Marge was born on February 26, 1938, in Paterson, New Jersey, and was raised in Haledon. In 1957, she married the love of her life, Henry Balkema (Red). Together they built a home in Franklin Lakes in 1962, where they raised their family and created a lifetime of cherished memories. After Henry’s passing in late 2021, Marge began a new chapter in March 2023 when she moved from the home she had lovingly cared for over 60 years to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains.

Marge’s life was defined by her deep faith, her love for her family, and her servant’s heart. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a proud grandmother, and a joyful great-grandmother who treasured every moment spent with her family. For more than 50 years, she faithfully supported Henry as the office manager of his masonry contracting business.

Her faith was central to who she was. Marge was actively involved in her church community, leading youth groups, Calvinettes, and women’s Bible studies over the years. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. Whether gathering around her kitchen table for coffee or enjoying sledding in her yard, her home was always a place of warmth, laughter, and belonging.

Later in life, Marge worked as an administrator in a women’s health office. After moving to Cedar Crest in 2023, she embraced her new community, forming meaningful friendships and participating in activities, especially enjoying time with her coloring group.

Marge was a devoted member of Rockpoint Community Christian Reformed Church.

She is lovingly remembered by her son, Bruce (Yvonne) ; her daughters, Susanne Wynbeek (Jim) and Heidi Balkema; her grandchildren, Amy (Jared) Minatelli, Erin (Daryl) Leegwater, Tyler Balkema, Madison Wynbeek, Mackenzie Wynbeek, and Morgan Terry (Mitchell) and her five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Charlotte Brandle.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Tuesday, May 19 at 11:00 a.m. at Rockpoint Community Church, 400 North Haledon Avenue, North Haledon, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Marge’s memory may be made to the Eastern Christian School Association, 50 Oakwood Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Margaret Balkema, please visit our Tree Store.