Elmer "Tug" Westerhof

Elmer “Tug” Westerhof, age 91, of Grand Haven, Michigan was summoned by our Lord to join his Father’s heavenly baseball team on January 10, 2018. Tug, a nickname given to him by an uncle from a Sunday comic strip, was born January 27, 1926 in Grand Haven to the late Elmer J. and Margaret (Salisbury) Westerhof. He graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1943. Tug proudly served in the United States Army during World War II, having served in the Philippines and the occupation of Japan. After he was honorably discharged from the Army he attended Michigan State University, graduating with a degree in Chemical Engineering in 1950 and became a Registered Mechanical Engineer. Tug married Ruth Russell on January 27, 1951 in Bay City. She passed away on August 29, 1984. Tug worked for Consumers Power Co. for 34 years. He worked in Jackson, Bay City, Mount Clemens and Kalamazoo, retiring in 1985 as an executive manager in the distribution department. On February 20, 1990, he was married to Patricia (McClelland) Ekleberry. Tug was a member and elder of First Presbyterian Church in Grand Haven. He was also a member of the American Legion, Charles A. Conklin, Post #28, and was active in Little League Baseball in Jackson, Kalamazoo and Mount Clemens. He enjoyed spending time golfing, fishing, traveling and being with family. He was also an avid MSU Fan and overall sports nut. Tug is survived by his wife, Patricia; sons, James (Cindy) Westerhof and David (Coleen) Westerhof; daughter-in-law, Sheri Westerhof; step-sons, John (Ann) Ekleberry and Richard (Aida) Ekleberry; step-daughters, Mary (Ken) Pope and Jane (Joe) Pontious. He is also survived by 22 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, brother Carl (Dorothy) Westerhof and many nieces and nephews. Tug was preceded in death by his son, Robert in 2013. Now God has given Tug his turn at bat as he joins our Father’s heavenly baseball team. Private family services with Pastor Jill VanderWall officiating, will take place at a later date. Interment will be at Lake Forest Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of North Ottawa Community or the American Heart Association.