Eric Westra, aged 29 of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, May 23, 2016 after a courageous battle with bone cancer. He is survived by his wife, Chelsea; their precious son, Arie; parents, Steve and Linda Westra; sisters and brothers-in-law, Sara and Jon Meengs, Amy and Reed Miller; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rod and Carla Muller; sister-in-law, Hilary Muller; grandparents, Ed and Marci Muller, Anna Rempel; nephews and nieces, Dylan, Hannah and Lynnae Meengs, Niklas and Henrik Miller; and countless amazing friends.
Eric was a successful civil engineer, a connoisseur of fermented beverages, a loyal friend, an avid LeBron James fan, a proud father, a reluctant vegetarian, a selfless husband, a friend to anyone he just met, a funny guy, a strong Christian, a pesky brother, and a fearless fighter until the end. To know him was to love him, and he will be fiercely missed.
Funeral services for Eric will be held Friday at 11 am at Encounter Church, 4620 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood, with Pastor Dirk VanEyk officiating. Interment in Pine Hill Cemetery. Members of the family will receive relatives and friends at Encounter Church on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. The family requests that those who wish to make a memorial contribution consider giving to Arie’s Education Fund.
Leave Your Tribute Message
May 26, 2016 11:24am
Chelsea, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Arie. Brian and Susan
- Brian & Susan Mattila
May 26, 2016 7:50am
Chelsea, Arie, and Family
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God's grace comfort you during this time.
- Andrew and Cheryl (Vlietstra) Yonkers
May 26, 2016 6:26am
We are praying for you and the extended family.
We have been in prayer for you for some time after hearing of your struggles from Rod. May God grant you comfort and peace and the knowledge of His unconditional love.
- John and Nancy Bonnema
May 26, 2016 5:27am
Dear Chelsea,
You have fought this battle alongside Eric with such courage, compassion, humour, and above all else - love. We hold you and Arie, and both of your wonderful families, in our hearts and prayers. We are so sorry we are not able to be with you for the service. We pray that you will experience God's love and peace, as you celebrate a life well lived, and know that you will see him again one day. Love and Prayers.
- Charles & Andrea Koop
May 25, 2016 3:56pm
Westra family, know that for months we have been praying for Eric and family. We will continue to do so. May God surround you with His Love and Blessings at this time.
- norma and jim drayton
May 25, 2016 1:19pm
My deepest sympathy to the entire Westra family. Why God took Eric home so soon we just don't know that answer, but now Eric is so free! You have been and will continue to be in my prayers.
- Donna Miller (former CCMS teacher)
May 25, 2016 12:04pm
Chelsea, Arie, family and friends,
I am so sorry for your loss of dear Eric. I will continue to remember all of you in my prayers. May you be comforted by God's grace.
Sincerely,
Lou Scott - Minneapolis
- Lou Scott
May 25, 2016 10:19am
Eric's Family,
When there are no words and only questions, may you find comfort knowing God had a bigger plan for Eric and that he will forever be with all of you. You all are in my thoughts and prayers as you continue the journey without your loved one.
- Kris Harris
May 25, 2016 9:39am
Chelsea,
So sorry for your loss after such a courageous battle for both of you! It is a blessing that he is no longer suffering. Prayers and thoughts and love from Rich & Kris
- Kris & Rich May
May 25, 2016 9:14am
Chelsea, I'm so very sorry for your loss. You along with your precious child and family will remain in my prayers. Love ~Ana & Dani
- Ana Martinez Rodriguez