Gerritt "Gary" LeRoy Poelstra

Gary LeRoy Poelstra, 87 of Newport Beach, California, passed away after a long illness on May 17, 2025. Born on October 30, 1937, in Corona, California, to Gerritt and Evelyn Poelstra, Gary was the youngest of three siblings, brother Ron Poelstra and sister Irene Poelstra. He had a lively childhood and loved hunting and fishing. He was an energetic and curious boy and carried that spirit into his adulthood. Gary went on to become a successful stockbroker and eventually established a commercial real estate brokerage in 1977, Poelstra Properties, specializing in Government leased properties, primarily United States Post Office buildings. He was the President of the Association of United States Postal Lessors (AUSPL) for a 14-year span, and it was his passion helping Lessors with their lease negotiations and post office properties. 

Gary was a known for his relentless work ethic, charismatic personality and witty sense of humor. He grew up playing basketball for Corona High School and was awarded a scholarship to play in college, but a devastating car accident left him with an artificial hip at 18 years of age, ending his basketball dreams. Gary was quick to pivot into building a worthwhile career and experienced great success in his real estate pursuits. He loved Formula 1 race cars but could only be a spectator as his 6’ 5” stature wasn’t suitable for his need for speed!

Gary is survived by his partner, Eileen Schuler, daughters, Julie Poelstra Bragg (Danny Bragg) and Renee Poelstra Farman (Sean Farman), son, Joe Poelstra, stepson, Sean Murphy, sister, Irene Moon, his eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his two infant children who passed shortly after their births, William & Karen, his brother Ron, and his first-born child, Kelly Grace Poelstra.

A memorial service will be held at Pacific View Memorial Park in Corona Del Mar, California on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 2pm.

Gary will be deeply missed. He loved his life and his family and friends. His loved ones are at peace knowing he is reunited with his parents, his big brother, his dear friends and especially his beloved daughter, Kelly. He lived a long, adventurous, fulfilling life and he did it “his way.” His legacy will live on in his children and grandchildren and we shall miss him all the days of our lives, until we meet again. All our love. 

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