- Date Of Birth: November 24, 1958
- Date Of Death: October 6, 2016
- State: Indiana
Michael J.H. “Mike” Posthuma, 57, of Bristol, passed away unexpectedly Thursday afternoon, October 6, in Elkhart.
Mike was born November 24, 1958, in Elkhart, to Dick J. and Helen (Schulte) Posthuma.
He married Laurie Sims in Las Vegas on Aug. 11, 2001.
Surviving are his wife of 15 years, Laurie of Bristol; children Michael P. (Sheri) Posthuma of Tampa, Fla., Taryn (Josh) Schneider of Goshen and Tyler (fiancée Brittany) Sims of Elkhart; four grandchildren, Asher Posthuma, Quistis Schneider, Soleia Schneider and Liam Sims; brother Rich Posthuma of Elkhart; two sisters, Elaine Kendell of South Bend and Dianne (Todd) Clark of Bristol. Also surviving are 10 nieces and nephews; sister-in-law Debi Posthuma; brother-law Mike (Kelly) Sims; sister-in-law Carol Sims; brother-in-law Matt Sims; father and mother-in-law Harry and Martha Sims; and his faithful dog, Brody.
After graduating from Elkhart Central High School in 1977, Mike worked as a press operator at Federal Press before beginning what would become a 28-year career with the Elkhart Police Department.
During his years of service there, Mike held several ranks and positions including K-9 and motorcycle officer, SWAT team member, Juvenile detective, field training officer, and armorer. After retiring from the police force in 2011, Mike started his own business, OPA’s Express LLC, through which he was able to travel the country.
Like his father before him, Mike was a gifted handyman and everyone’s go-to guy for help with household projects big or small. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, be it boating or riding his Harley.
Mike will be remembered best for his loyal and dependable friendship, and as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was beloved by many, and his loss will be deeply felt.
