Our dad, Arie Verkaik, went peacefully into the arms of Jesus surrounded by his loved ones on Saturday, June 29, 2019. He was preceded in death by the love of his life for 65 years, Bert; his son, David; his daughter-in-law, Sally; and his brother, Dr. Peter Verkaik. He will be lovingly missed by his children, Richard (Ginny) Verkaik, Duane (Ruth) Verkaik, Maribeth (Jim) Stech, Michael (Dawn) Verkaik; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; brother, Hank (Nancy) Verkaik; and sister-in-law, Edna Verkaik. Arie was a kingdom builder, a founding member of the Calvinist Cadet Corps, and a dedicated child care worker at Wedgwood Christian Services and the VFW National Home for Children. His love and passion for kids was evident to all who knew him. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 3, 2019, at 10:30 a.m. in the Sunset Manor Chapel, 7215 Baldwin St., Jenison, with his son, Rev. Rich Verkaik officiating.  Interment will be held at Georgetown Township Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family on Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW and also on Wednesday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the service at Sunset.  Memorial contributions may be made to Oceans Ministries or to CSL Haiti.

Leave Your Tribute Message

July 04, 2019 4:55am
Mr. Verkaik was always kind and obviously loved Jesus. Grace and peace to all of you in this time when we have sorrow but not without hope.

- David Van Huisen

July 03, 2019 9:14am
I was sorry to hear of Arie's passing. He was very instrumental in facilitating the admission process when I and my children moved to the VFW National Home in 1989 and was also closely involved with their ongoing care throughout the years. I had great respect for him and count myself blessed to have known him. Dan Lightner

- Dan Lightner

July 02, 2019 9:11pm
I'm so sorry for your loss. Life will not be the same without uncle Arie. I love you guys much, and you're in my thoughts and prayers.

- Jerry Hemple

July 02, 2019 7:42pm
We celebrate with you that Arie is with his Lord. God blessed him with a loving family and long life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Paul and Carleen Kaurin

- Paul and Carleen Kaurin

July 01, 2019 5:53pm
Work commitments prevent us from visitation and the funeral; but our thoughts and prayer support are with you.

- Jim and Linda Ruse




Order flowers for Arie's service.

Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement

White Wonder

Thinking of You Basket

Tender Touch

Stargazer Garden

Stargazer Easel Spray

Sincere Sympathy Garden

Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)

Remembrance Easel Spray

Natures Glory

Loving Embrace

Gerbera Greetings

Colorful Memories Wreath

Classic Sympathy

Blooming Duo

Bells of Beauty

Beautiful Memories

Beautiful Blessings Wreath

Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.

 

Keola Stress Less Gummies

Relieve stress and anxiety with Keola Stress Less Gummies.

Keola Pain Relief Balm

Ease aches, and sooth sore joints with Keola Pain Relief Balm.