Douglas Jay Mekkes, age 51, of Jenison, lost his battle with addiction on Monday, March 12, 2018. Even though his earthly struggles overcame him, his faith in Jesus and love for his family was evident to all who knew him. Doug enjoyed being a realtor in the Grand Rapids area for many years, where he established many friendships. Having a strong love for the game of baseball, many will remember him as a baseball coach at Georgetown Little League. The memories that were made there he forever cherished. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 27 years, Kim (Paciencia); children, Courtney and Caleb Henderson, Dakota Mekkes, and Taylor Mekkes; granddaughter, Emersyn; parents, Tom and Julie Mekkes; parents-in-law, Ed and Sandy Paciencia; siblings, Deb and Jeff Nichols, Holly and Cam Vostad; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ed Paciencia, Matt and Tammie Paciencia, Melissa and Ryan Baumbach, Christopher and Holli Paciencia; many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. A visitation will be held 5:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, 2018, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4145 Chicago Drive SW, Grandville. A private funeral service for family and close friends will be held on Thursday. Interment Georgetown Township Cemetery. To help others who may be going through difficult life challenges, the family requests that memorial contributions be given to Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services.
Leave Your Tribute Message
March 18, 2018 7:26pm
Dear Mekkes family, I am so saddened to hear of the loss of Doug. I remember him so well from photographing his wedding and then more family events over the years. We just lost our son last month, and now to hear about Doug, is just so heart breaking. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this deep sorrow.
Sandy VanderTol
- Sandy VanderTol
March 17, 2018 6:58am
My sincere condolences to the entire Mekkes family. Doug was such a wonderful soul, always kind and helpful. I am so sorry that I missed the visitation. I will always remember him fondly. My thoughts are with you all.
- Maggie Muldoon
March 16, 2018 1:30pm
I offer you my deepest sympathy, I know your sorrow, my thoughts and prayers will be with you and the family.
love you all
- Janie Paciencia
March 16, 2018 9:58am
I wish my family and I could've been at the services for Doug to lend our support in this difficult time. We pray that the Lord will give his family peace and comfort knowing that Doug is now with Him in glory.
- David Schaaf
March 15, 2018 5:01pm
Tom and Julie,Sorry read the passing of your son. My condolences to you and the entire family. May the good Lord comfort you at this difficult time,You will be in my prayers. Jerry White
- Jerry white
March 14, 2018 2:29pm
Thoughts and prayers are with you. I understand your sorrow. May God give you peace and strength. God bless you and your family
- Nancy berry
March 14, 2018 11:36am
You were an awesome man with a huge heart and you will be so missed! You are whole in heaven! Many prayers to your family!!!
- Tami Vroma
March 14, 2018 8:26am
Our condolences to Doug's family. So sorry to hear the news of his passing. We saw him last at a realtor function right before Christmas and had a wonderful conversation. Our prayers go out to you for strength for your family during this difficult time.
- Ty and Lindy Tanis
March 14, 2018 4:47am
Doug will be missed. He was always concerned for cared for those he worked with and helped customers to have smooth closings. We enjoyed working with him at Transnation. Sympathies to his family at this terrible sad time of his loss of life too soon.
- Steve Barnum
March 14, 2018 3:54am
To a friend, a brother in the battle field of addiction and a warrior you are loved and missed terribly. If we only knew how our actions effected those that loved us. We miss you so much. Your death has caused me much pain brother. Why am I still here. Love you!
- John wingett
March 14, 2018 12:58am
It came as a shock to all to who knew and loved him. My deepest sympathy to the family and may God continue to bless you and grant you strength in this time of loss.
- Dr. Scott Newquist
March 13, 2018 5:46pm
What amazing memories that were created over the years. God took you too soon. You are safe now. But you will be deeply missed by many Doug. Hugs to your family.. Will see you in Heaven someday ❤
- Barb Breen Hoffius and Jeff Hoffius
March 13, 2018 5:19pm
I am very sad to hear the news of Doug's passing. I worked with Doug for many years at the Pizza Factory and he was always such a fun-loving guy! My prayers for his entire family!
- Pamela Helder
March 13, 2018 12:30pm
My condolences to Doug's family. This is sad news. Having grown up on the same block, I have fond memories of playing hide-and-seek until the streetlights came on. While Doug and Scott tried to outwit and outplay us, April and I always tried to hold our own! It was a great place to grow up and all the better for the people who lived there. May you draw comfort in his memories.
- Stacey Barrenger