Gerald "Butch"

Gerald “Butch” Henry Ten Kley, age 81, of Lynden, WA passed away at his home on Friday, July 3, 2026. He was born on March 24, 1945 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to parents Dick and Wilhelmina “Minnie” (Veenhof) TenKley, Gerald grew up with strong values, a sharp mind, and a gift for working with his hands. A 1963 graduate of Nooksack Valley High School, Gerald enlisted in the United States Air Force immediately after graduation. He served his country with honor, including a tour in Vietnam from 1967–1968 and later at Clark Air Base in the Philippines from 1968–1970. It was there he met the love of his life, Divina. They married on May 14, 1975 and later adopted their daughter, Marisol, who became the center of his world. Though Gerald earned several distinguished military awards, he never spoke of them. His humility was one of his defining traits — he preferred sharing stories about the people he met, the places he served, and the lessons learned along the way. After his military service, Gerald became known as the neighborhood mechanic. Fixing engines wasn’t just a skill; it was his passion. He could repair anything, and he did so with patience, generosity, and a genuine desire to help others. Gerald was loved deeply and will be missed beyond measure. Gerald leaves behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and steady love. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Divina; daughter Marisol (Glen); grandson Darrius; granddaughters Kiya and Jaida; and four great‑grandchildren: Royce, Kyla, Miliana, and Madilynn. He is also survived by his siblings Judith Howell, Ellen Feller (Perry), Linda Weibusch (Jack), Bonnie Miller (Larry), and Donald TenKley (Joan), along with many nieces, nephews and other relatives. Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Minnie TenKley, and his sister Mary Ann De Vries. His legacy lives on in the family he adored, the neighbors he helped, and the countless lives he touched with quiet kindness. Private family services with Military Honors will be held at Lakeside Cemetery in Lynden.