NORTHBRIDGE, Mass. - George H. "Pinky" Kuindersma Jr., 74, of 91 Prentice Rd. died peacefully Friday, Feb. 3, 2012 at home surrounded by his loving family.


He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Eileen E. (Menard) Kuindersma; his four children Crystal Pauhl and her husband Tom of Santa Cruz, CA, Mark S. "Pinky" Kuindersma and his companion Diane Beaulieu of Whitinsville, Holly J. Saari and her husband Scott of Marlborough, and Gary E. Kuindersma of New Bedford; eight grandchildren; one great grandson; a brother Robert A. Kuindersma and his wife Jean of Whitinsville; nephews, nieces; Pop-Pops Bella; and many good friends including his golf travelling companion Barney Courtemache.


He was brother of the late Henry Kuindersma and Everett Kuindersma. Born in Whitinsville on May 29, 1937 he was son of the late George H. Sr. and Nellie (Burgess) Kuindersma and lived here all of his life.


Pinky was a school bus driver for First Student Company in Charlton, driving school bus #1 in Mendon, Grafton, and Northbridge for the past 10 years. Previously he was a truck driver, terminal manager, and dispatcher for several area trucking companies including Boutour's Express, Grants Express, Worcester Trucking, Madonia Carabella Trucking, and Helen's Transportation. He also was a former deputy sheriff. He was educated in the Northbridge public school system and served in the National Guard. He was a stand out softball player throughout the Blackstone Valley, known for his power and strength in the fast-pitch league. He was even drafted by the KC Athletics. An avid golfer, he was a founding member of Whitinsville Golf Club and could often be found at the 10th hole (Gray Barn) spending time with his friends.

He most of all loved his family and just sitting out at his backyard pool with his dog James. He will be truly missed.


A Celebration of Life for Pinky will be held at the Gray Barn, 2 Elm St., Whitinsville on Saturday, Feb. 11 at noon. Donations may be made to Salmon Hospice Care, 42 Beaumont Dr. Northbridge, MA 01534.