Obituaries: April 21, 2026
Theodore John Boeve
June 6, 1952-April 16, 2026
Theodore John Boeve, age 73, passed away on April 16, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Born June 6, 1952, in Holland, Michigan, he was educated at Hope College and received his master’s degree from Western Michigan University. He began his career as a CPA in Traverse City, Michigan, followed by 35 years at Herman Miller in Zeeland, Michigan.
He loved golf, architecture, reading, and most of all, spending time with his family. He was kind, extremely generous, intelligent and loving.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Karlene (Hintz) Boeve; son, Mark Boeve and his wife, Bonnie, and their son, Lawson; daughter, Michelle Boeve, and her daughter, Madeleine Philippe; and his siblings Julie (Boeve) Olsen and her husband, David, and their daughter, Kathryn; Johnny Boeve; and Mary-Ann (Boeve) Collison and her husband, Rick.
A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Fair Haven Church, 2900 Baldwin St., Hudsonville, Michigan. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
To honor his memory, donations can be made in his name to: Kids Food Basket (kidsfoodbasket.org).
Ronald Joseph Fredricks
August 17, 1941-April 17, 2026
Dr. Ronald Joseph Fredricks (Fedorowicz) P.E., age 84 of Grand Rapids (Jenison), passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Ron was born August 17, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, to Alphonse Joseph and Jane Francis (Dukarski) Fedorowicz, of Polish and Lithuanian heritage. As a young boy, Ron endured a life-altering illness, contracting Pott’s disease, which left him bedridden in a body cast for nearly two years. Doctors feared he might never walk again. In hope and faith, his parents sought the prayers of Capuchin friar Blessed Fr. Solanus Casey, who assured them that Ron would be healed. Through what the family has always regarded as a grace-filled intercession, Ron recovered fully — going on to run, play, and live a full and active life. This experience left a profound and lasting impact on his faith and the life he would lead.
Following his recovery, Ron moved with his family to Saginaw, Michigan, where he was joined by his beloved younger brother, Richard Fedorowicz, his loyal companion and lifelong friend. Ron was active in the Boy Scouts and developed an early passion for amateur radio, earning his license and call sign, K8DMR, as a young teenager — a pursuit that remained a lifelong joy.
Ron graduated from Saginaw St. Mary’s High School in 1959, where he excelled academically and also enjoyed participating in athletics, including baseball, football, and basketball. He shared his musical talents as well, performing Everly Brothers songs in the school talent show.
He went on to attend Michigan State University, graduating magna cum laude with a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1964, and later earned his Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Michigan in 1970. A brilliant engineer with a deep love of learning and teaching, Ron served as a professor at Michigan State University, Western Michigan University, Grand Valley State University, and Calvin University, inspiring countless students over the years.
Ron built an accomplished career in aerospace and electrical engineering, working with organizations including Lear Siegler, Magnavox, Smiths Aerospace, Boeing, and General Electric. His work in the instrument division at Lear Siegler contributed to the development of the “Loran-C” navigation system, which played a pivotal role in its adoption by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Federal Aviation Administration for civil aviation. He also published research on the “Optimization of Functional Differential Systems” and “Airborne Omega” performance testing. In recognition of his contributions, Ron received numerous professional honors, including awards from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), in which he was nationally involved. In addition, Ron was named the 1982 “Outstanding Engineer of the Year” by the Michigan Society of Professional Engineers.
Ron remained deeply involved in the amateur radio community throughout his life and was an active member of the Grand Rapids Amateur Radio Club. In 2024, he was honored as “West Michigan Ham of the Year,” a fitting recognition of his lifelong passion and contributions to the field.
In the 1970s, Ron discovered a love for downhill skiing, which ultimately led him to meet the love of his life, Mary Iris Fredricks (Breimayer). The two met through the Lincoln Ski Club (later the Greater Grand Rapids Ski Club), where they spent years skiing together. They were married on May 7, 1977, beginning a loving marriage that spanned more than 48 years.
Ron was a devoted husband and a loving father to Kristina Marie Rexford and Daniel Joseph Fredricks. In 1984, Ron transitioned to independent consulting, working with Midwest and bicoastal corporations. This move gave him greater flexibility to spend time with his family — a choice he made intentionally. Though highly successful in his field, he always placed his responsibilities as a husband and father above all else.
The Fredricks family shared a deep love of skiing, spending countless days on the slopes — from the molehills of Michigan, including backyard runs of “Mt. Fredricks,” to the mountains of the western United States and Canada. Ron also played a key role in helping establish the West Catholic High School ski team in the mid-1990s, fostering a love of the sport in future generations.
A man of deep and abiding faith, Ron enthusiastically participated in the life of the Church. He served as a lector and member of the choir at Holy Spirit Parish in Grand Rapids, and more recently at Holy Redeemer Parish in Jenison. His faith, rooted in both early suffering and lifelong devotion, was evident in the quiet and steady way he lived and loved.
He was his children’s greatest supporter, always present, always encouraging, and always leading with love.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Mary (Breimayer) Fredricks; children, Kristina Marie Rexford and Daniel Joseph Fredricks; grandchildren, Allyson and Eric Larson, Adam and Jenny Kolb, and Anna Kolb; and great-grandchildren, Natalie, Nora, and Oaken Larson. He is also survived by his brother, Richard (Brenda) Fedorowicz; sisters-in-law, Barbara Klein, Brenda Fedorowicz, and Peggy Breimayer; and many cherished nieces and nephews. He will also be deeply missed by countless extended family members and dear friends — most especially his “little brother,” Rick Clemence.
Ron’s life was marked by faith, perseverance, intellect, and love. From a childhood marked by suffering and miraculous recovery to a life of achievement, devotion, and quiet sacrifice, he leaves behind a legacy that will endure in all who knew him. His love will live on forever in the hearts of those he touched.
Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2026, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish Church, 2700 Baldwin St., Jenison, MI 49428, with prayers of the Rosary beginning at 6:30 p.m. A funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish Church, with a visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. In memory of Ron, donations may be made to Amazon Relief, Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish, or West Catholic High School – Ski Team Boosters. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in Ron’s online guestbook.
Judith "Judi" Ann Gray-Ingalls
March 3, 1957-April 19, 2026
Judith Ann "Judi" Gray-Ingalls, age 69, of Nunica, passed away peacefully at home with her husband by her side on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Born on March 3, 1957, to Gary G. and Lois A. (Decker) Gray, in Grand Haven, Michigan, Judi lived a life rooted in love, family, and quiet kindness. She married Gregory Ingalls on April 17, 1999, in Spring Lake.
Judi had a gift for bringing people together, especially her family, and took great joy in creating traditions that will be cherished by everyone. Whether it was hosting Halloween parties, organizing hayrides, or planning Easter egg hunts at the family farm in Nunica, Judi made every gathering feel special. Her gentle spirit, warm heart, and compassion for others earned her the affectionate nickname, "Lovey," which perfectly captured who she was.
Judi had an adventurous soul and a love for life's simple pleasures. She spent several years living in Honolulu, Hawaii, an experience she treasured, before returning home to be closer to family. She found happiness in traveling throughout Michigan and visiting Florida, but her favorite moments were often the quiet ones—relaxing by the pool, taking drives with her mother and sisters, boating, and sewing.
Judi's natural sense of organization and dedication led her to a career as an office manager in Grand Haven at Woodland Real Estate. A 1975 graduate of Spring Lake High School and lifelong member of Spring Lake Presbyterian Church, Judi carried her deep connection to community and faith throughout her life. At the church, Judi served as a deacon and volunteered her time in the food pantry and food truck outreach programs with her mother.
Judy is lovingly remembered and missed by her loving husband of 27 years, Greg; step-children, Sarah (Jerrod) Mason and Evan (Elaine) Ingalls; her cherished grandchildren: Jaxon Montano, Lennon Mason, and Joni and Leah Ingalls; her three siblings: Gary L. (Diane) Gray, Susan (Greg) Borta, and Carrie (Kevin) Ruiter; brother-in-law, Marlin (Pam) Ingalls; sister-in-law, MaryBeth (Charles) Jansen; uncle, Paul (Carol) Decker; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gary and Lois; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Marlin and Mary Ingalls; brother-in-law, Richard Lemke; sister-in-law, Janet Hecksel; and her beloved dogs, Charlie and Gigi, who brought her so much joy.
The funeral service for Judy will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Spring Lake Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Larry Jackson officiating. Visitations will be 2-5 p.m. Sunday, April 26, at Klaassen Family Funeral Home, as well as one hour prior to the service on Monday at the church. Interment will be at Spring Lake Township Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Spring Lake Presbyterian Church or Harbor Hospice.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Judith "Judi" Ann Gray-Ingalls, please visit our floral store.
John L. Heuvelman
August 24, 1928-April 19, 2026
John Heuvelman, age 97, passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
John was born on August 24, 1928, in Hudsonville, Michigan, to Henry and Hermina Heuvelman, arriving in this world at just 2 pounds John proved to be a fighter from the very beginning.
In his early years, John worked on his family farm until enlisting in the army in 1951, where he became a corporal. Upon returning to the States, he married Joyce Schreur and they later had their only child, Vicky, in 1956.
While working at Howard Miller Clock Co., he met his second wife of 54 years, Grethyll, who passed away in July 2024.
He was passionate about God, farming, John Deere tractors, and loved to travel. John had a smile that would light up a room and a laugh that will be remembered in the hearts of his loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Grethyll Heuvelman; brother-in-law, Al Eding; and son-in-law, Tom Tapley.
He is survived by his daughter, Vicky Brouwer (Larry Vera), Cheryl Tapley, Sandi (Jerry) Ray; grandchildren, Derick (Gemini) Brouwer, Stephanie (Jacob) de Boer, Beau (Charity) Vera, Donald (Lori) Tapley, Melissa DeJonge, Laura Norman, Tammie and Jacob Jacobs, Corey (Katrina) Volkers; numerous great-grandchildren; sister, Gerzella (Floyd) Kerkstra; sister, Mary Eding; and his extended family.
Private family services are being planned.
Burial to take place in Restlawn Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in John's honor may be given to Orchards of Douglas, Corewell Health Hospice at corewellhealth.org/foundation.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John L. Heuvelman, please visit our Sympathy Store.
David Conlee Mann
January 13, 1949-April 19, 2026
In Loving Memory of a Life Well Lived
With heavy hearts and gratitude for a life well lived, we note the passing of David “Conlee” Mann, a loving, kind, and devoted husband, father, and papa. Born January 3, 1949, in Chanute, Kansas. He passed away on April 19, 2026, in Holland, Michigan, following a short, courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s. He was truly the life of the party — a gifted storyteller with a quick wit, generous spirit, and a way of making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and at ease.
He spent his early years on the family ranch in Toronto, Kansas, a town settled by the Mann family nearly a century earlier. His youth was filled with riding horses, learning from his mother as his school teacher, and causing mischief that will long live on in family lore. His family eventually moved to Fredonia, Kansas, where Conlee enjoyed competing and excelling at basketball, baseball, and track, while making memories lifeguarding and waterskiing during the summers on Lake Toronto. He graduated from Fredonia High School in 1967, then continued his education at Butler County Community College, later graduating from Emporia State University with a Bachelor of Science in Business. During those years, he formed lifelong friendships, proudly pledged Alpha Kappa Lambda fraternity, and met the love of his life, Roxanne “Roxie” Hague — the beginning of a remarkable journey built on love, laughter, and partnership.
For 52 beautiful years, Conlee shared a deep and enduring love with his wife, Roxie. Together, they built a life centered on family, laughter, adventure, and unwavering support.
Conlee was a successful leader in lumber sales for almost 40 years, a profession that led his family on a journey throughout Arizona, Texas, Illinois, and Kansas, before settling in Livonia, Michigan. In retirement, he and Roxie embraced life fully, splitting time between their loft in downtown Detroit and a home in Saugatuck, while continuing a lifelong enthusiasm for cross-country road trips, visiting friends, family and new destinations.
His very best days were spent surrounded by his children and five grandchildren. The ultimate cheerleader, Conlee was always present, encouraging, and proud. As a devoted father, he was the constant chauffeur, driving Emily to early morning skate practices and evening dance lessons, never missing a competition, performance or game. He later beamed with pride as he watched her become a loving mother and pursue her passion for design. He supported Sean wholeheartedly throughout his pursuits, creating lifelong memories over camping trips, sporting events, time with his young family, and championing the growth of Detroit City Football Club every step of the way as a field painter, carpenter, ticket salesman, and wherever else he was needed.
As a grandfather, he found immeasurable joy in the simplest moments—rocking babies to sleep, helping little ones take their first steps, and reading books. He loved playing with his grandchildren and cheering loudly from the sidelines. His laughter was contagious, his stories unforgettable, and his presence a constant source of joy.
A master craftsman, he was the go-to handyman for family and friends, remodeling homes, building and refinishing furniture, restoring antiques, and creating intricate stained glass pieces that reflected both his patience and artistry. When not working in his woodshop or garden, Conlee enjoyed taking in a Lake Michigan sunset, catching a Kansas basketball game, riding around town on his custom DCFC bicycle, or birdwatching.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Iona Lorraine Charbonneau Mann and John Henry Mann, and his sister, Julie Cheryl Mann Siddens.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Roxanne Hague Mann; his children, Sean (Rachel) Mann and Emily (Sean) Fengya; and his cherished grandchildren, Arthur and Willard Mann, Eleanor, Eugene Conlee Jr., and Edward Fengya. He is also survived by his brother, John Craig (Tula) Mann, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.
His legacy is one of love, laughter, hard work, and generosity. He leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who cherished him, and a lifetime of stories that will continue to be told for generations to come. Though he is gone, his light remains — in every sunset, every shared story, and every act of kindness inspired by his example.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Conlee may make a donation to the Mann Family Community Engagement Fund, established through DCFC’s non-profit to promote access to soccer and sports for youth in the city of Detroit for years to come. dcfccity.sprocketsports.com/club/donations
A public celebration of Conlee will be at Saturday, August 15, in Detroit, Michigan. Conlee loved nothing more than a good time, surrounded by his favorite people and watching a Detroit City FC game. Additional details to come at a later date.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David, please visit our floral store.
Harold James Overzet
December 27, 1931-April 18, 2026
Harold James Overzet, age 94, of Wyoming and Gowen, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
Harold was born on December 27, 1931, in Muskegon, Michigan. He served in the Air Force from 1951 to 1955, including two years on Guam. Harold married the love of his life, Marilyn, in 1955. He lived a life defined by his faith and love for his family. As a dedicated church member, he was an elder and a deacon, and he sang in the choir. He and his wife, Marilyn, served as missionaries in Papua New Guinea with Wycliffe Bible Translators for two years.
Harold was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn (Zwier) Overzet. He will be lovingly missed and remembered by his three children, Nancy (Scott) Coston of New Creek, West Virginia, Dan (Monica) Overzet of Lakewood, Colorado, and Karen (Bob) Playford of Gowen, Michigan; eight grandchildren, Jennifer and Rachel Coston, Peter (Lauren) and Benjamin (Amy) Overzet, and Kyle (Christi), Alex, Seth, and Curtis Playford; two great-grandchildren, London Playford and April Overzet; siblings, Marian (Leo) DeGram and Eunice (Helmets, deceased) Mednis, Ralph (Nancy) Overzet, and Mina (Will, deceased) Gutierrez; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Cook Funeral Home (West Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, April 24, 2026, at Ridgewood Christian Reformed Church, 1571 Baldwin St., Jenison, MI 49428, with visitation from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service.
The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Roy J. Scarbrough Sr.
September 16, 1968-April 13, 2026
Roy J. Scarbrough Sr., age 57, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, April 13, 2026, in Spring Lake, Michigan.
He was born to Jesse and Dorothy (Myers) Scarbrough on September 16, 1968, in Muskegon, Michigan. Roy enlisted in the U.S.M.C. on July 26, 1988, and proudly served his country until July 25, 1992.
He married the love of his life, Evelyn Rellama Sasutona, on November 25, 1989, in Okinawa, Japan, and they were able to spend 36 wonderful years together raising a family. In his spare time, Roy enjoyed working on cars, riding his motorcycle, hunting, traveling with family and watching football and hockey. He was a devoted family man who enjoyed time with his family and helping others.
He is survived in death by his wife, Evelyn Scarbrough; children: Roy (Nicole) Scarbrough Jr., Brandon Scarbrough; grandchildren: Jaivyn Scarbrough and 1 baby girl on the way; brother: Kenneth (Jeannie) Scarbrough; sister: Virginia Hillburg.
Roy is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Dorothy Scarbrough; son: Jeffery Scarbrough; brother-in-law: Ron Hillsburg; and niece: Tammy Hillsburg.
Visitation will be 10-11 a.m. Friday, April 24, 2026, with a memorial service at 11 a.m. at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI. 49417. Please consider signing the family’s online guestbook and sharing memories at sytsemafh.com.
Karen Sue Smith
January 22, 1961-April 17, 2026
Karen S. Smith, age 65, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026, in Grand Haven, Michigan.
She was born to Willard and Anetta (Hajes) Smith on January 22, 1961, in Grand Haven, Michigan.
Karen loved all things pretty, putting outfits together, music, dancing, parties, was very artistic and loved to be with and spend time with her housemates, caregivers and friends.
Karen is survived by her sister: Kathleen Smith; brothers: Dale (Pam) Smith, Wayne (Nancy Klein) Smith, Jan (Carrie) Smith; aunt: Lois Spencer; uncle: Irv Smith; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Willard and Anetta Smith.
Visitation will be 11 a.m.-noon Monday, April 27, 2026, at The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 231 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 494546 with a memorial service at noon.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Please consider signing the family’s online guestbook and sharing memories at sytsemafh.com.
Dr. Donald Wayne Steere
August 14, 1938-April 14, 2026
Dr. Donald W. Steere, D.D.S., age 87, of Grand Haven, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
Born on August 14, 1938, and raised in Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of the late Albert J. and Mary L. (De Persia) Steere.
Dr. Steere earned his bachelor's degree from Northwestern University and his degree in Oral and Maxillofacial Dentistry from Loyola University Chicago. He maintained dental offices in Wheeling and Glendale, West Virginia, where he was a highly respected oral surgeon and a lifelong member of the West Virginia Dental Association.
Throughout his adult life, Dr. Steere supported Catholic Charities and generously provided dental care at no cost to residents of local convents and to underserved members of the community. He also volunteered his services to inmates at the West Virginia Penitentiary.
Beyond his distinguished career as an oral surgeon, Dr. Steere was an avid pilot who maintained a lifelong passion for flying. He flew often and instilled that same passion in his sons. His cottage in Grand Haven, Michigan, was his happy place, where he spent his later years under the care and support of his nurse, Karen Fredricks.
Dr. Steere is survived by his children: Beth (Rhett) Walker of Sumter, South Carolina; Jennifer (Robert) Mason of Columbus, Ohio; Robert Steere of Concord, North Carolina; and his daughter-in-law, Anna Steere of Columbus, Ohio; his grandchildren: Madison, Reese, and Riley Walker, Kate, Brooke, and Dean Mason, and Chloe and Tessa Steere; his brother, Dr. Robert C. (Dian) Steere; and his former wife, Cheryl Jones.
He was preceded in death by his eldest son, Donald.
A private family gathering to celebrate Dr. Steere's life will be held this summer at his cottage in Grand Haven, Michigan.
In keeping with his generous spirit, memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities West Virginia at ccwva.org.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dr. Donald Wayne Steere, please visit our floral store.
John "Jack" Yedinak
December 29, 1942-January 1, 2026
Mr. John "Jack" Yedinak, age 83, of Grand Haven, Michigan, and Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
Jack was born on December 29, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to John and Jean (Love) Yedinak. On July 8, 1963, he married the love of his life, Mary Ellen Puplava in Grand Haven, Michigan, beginning a marriage that spanned 62 wonderful years.
Jack proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam conflict and remained active in veterans' organizations throughout his life, including the American Legion Post 28 in Grand Haven, Michigan, and a life member of Post 131 in Green Valley, Arizona. He also belonged to several fraternal organizations, including the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks #1200 in Grand Haven, Michigan, where he served as an Exalted Ruler, and a life member of Elks 2592 in Green Valley, Arizona; member of the Grand Haven, Michigan, Knights of Columbus; Fraternal Order of Eagles in Grand Haven, Michigan; and the Loyal Order of Moose, #1964 Tucson, Arizona.
Jack was also deeply involved in his community, where he served proudly for nine years as a volunteer for the Grand Haven, Michigan, Department of Public Safety, and 12 years with the Pima County Sheriff's Department as an Auxiliary Volunteer (S.A.V) in Green Valley, Arizona. He was a member of the Air & Space Forces Association for 30 years and a member of the Air Force Museum Foundation for 40 years. Jack also enjoyed being a volunteer tour guide for four years at the Titan Missile Museum in Green Valley, Arizona, where he shared his joy, smile, passion and honor for all things military with thousands of tourists each year.
Jack was a member of the Green Valley Country Club in Arizona, where he treasured his true love for golf and the time spent on the course with his family. Above all else, he cherished being with his grandchildren, taking great pride in each of them and delighting in every moment they shared together. His warmth, sense of humor, and devotion to family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Jack is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Mary Ellen, and by the family who brought him the greatest joy. He was a proud father to three children; daughter Jean Crosby (husband James), with whom he shared the joy of watching their children Jordan, Kelly and Isaiah (wife Mariah) grow, and later welcoming Jordan's sons Connor and Collin; son John A. Yedinak (wife Jenny), who blessed him with five grandchildren, including John (JP), Jacob, Ciara, Anthony, and Luke; and daughter Teresa Carroll (husband Tom), who brought him great happiness.
Jack is also survived by his brother, James Yedinak, and his family. He was a caring uncle to Tracy Koers (husband Nick), and a great-uncle to their son Ben. Jack was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Young-Hee Yedinak, who remains fondly remembered within the family.
A celebration of life will be at 2 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026, at the American Legion, Post 28 in Grand Haven, Michigan. Memorial contributions in Jack's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society. Please sign the family's online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.
Robert Alan Yonkers
June 9, 1931-April 18, 2026
Robert Alan Yonkers, age 94, of Jenison, Michigan, was called home to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
He was lovingly welcomed into the arms of his Savior and reunited with his cherished wife of 56 years, Betty Yonkers, who preceded him in death.
Born with a heart of love for God and his family, Bob’s life was a testament to his unwavering faith. He is survived by his children, Debra Jacobson, Diane “Dee” (Bob) Dreyer, and Cynthia (Gordon) Ralph; grandchildren, Stephanie (Cory) Sterkenburg, Heather (John) Denham, Matthew (Elizabeth) Voss; nine great-grandchildren; special friend, Erma Johnson; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Bob’s legacy of love, kindness, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Bob had a deep love for his family and cherished the time spent with his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His faith was evident in all that he did, from his love for fishing and animals to his enjoyment of games like cribbage and Yahtzee, which he played with a spirit of joy and camaraderie.
Bob’s warmth, kindness, and sense of humor touched the hearts of everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his family takes comfort knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of his Lord.
A celebration of Bob's life will be 6-8 p.m. Monday, April 27, 2026, at Eighth Reformed Church, located at 841 Burton St. SW, Wyoming, MI 49509. All who knew Bob are invited to come and celebrate his life and his faith.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Humane Society of Elkhart County, where Bob’s granddaughter fosters animals, continuing his love for God’s creatures.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23)
The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guestbook.
