Morris Glen Broekema

Morris Glen Broekema was born on July 1st, 1930 in Everett, Washington to William Broekema and Dorthea Ungersma, the eight of 9 children. The family moved to Bozeman, Montana in 1942 where his love of fishing began. Morrie told his daughters that he would ride his bike carrying his fishing pole to the river and would bring home his catch to a very happy mom who then cooked them for dinner. He also confessed to going to the fish hatchery and secretly fishing there!

In 1954 the family moved to Bellflower, California where he attended Bellflower Christian High School. Morrie worked at an auto body shop at a young age and years later became a very skilled painter. He loved cars! He bought and restored his beloved '49 Oldsmobile and even had a trick to open the door.

Morrie met and married Angi Feringa in 1958. Soon they were parents of two daughters, Lori and Judy. Two baby boys were born, however, the Lord took them quickly to heaven.

In 1968 he became the proud owner of his first body shop in Artesia, California. It would be the first of three.

His love of camping and the outdoors began as a boy in Bozeman and carried out through his life. The girls remember many trips to Yellowstone, Bozeman, the Gallatin Canyon and traveling through the western states. Morrie also enjoyed his years with his ski boat and motorcycling with his family and friends.

He had a heart for people! He made many friends everywhere he went and he always made a lasting impression.

God blessed Morrie and Angi with 4 grandsons, Larry, Aaron, Johnny and Jace. He had a special bond with each of them and taught them many things, including a love for the Lord and how to work hard. He was quite the example. There was nothing he wouldn't do for his boys. When Kristina was born he was thrilled. Let the shopping begin! He didn't stop at one Christmas or Easter dress, it always ended up being two dresses complete with ALL the accessories.

After many successful years at his shop in San Juan Capistrano, Morrie retired. There were many trips in the RV and during this time he built a dream home in Churchill, Montana. He was faithful in caring for Angi while she battled cancer for nine years.

Morrie found love again when he met Diane Gleeson from Spruce Grove, Alberta, Canada. Diane also came from a large family and had cared for her first husband for many years through his illness. They quickly formed a bond and married in March 2008. Morrie and Diane traveled to Alaska and Canada where he was privileged to meet many of her family members. They moved to Indio, California, enjoying the sunshine, friends and quality time together.

Morrie became ill much too soon into their life together. Diane stood by his side every step of the way and was a very loving wife.
He left us all a legacy of faith in God, unconditional love and zest for life. We will remember him dearly through our smiles and our tears. We are all better people because he loved us.

We will miss you, Moe!