Gale Lee Soules

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gale Lee Soules on June 17, 2026, at the age of 91. 

Born on October 9, 1934, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Gale lived a full, adventure-filled life. His kind smile was always present, and he rarely had a bad word to say about anyone. He is survived by his beloved wife, Shari (Sharon) Soules; his daughters, Tammie B. (Ron) Groeneveld and Tina Lee Soules; and his grandchildren, Kalie (Mike) Stone, Cody (Tricia) Groeneveld, Jared (Taryn) Groeneveld, Jesse (Emily) Groeneveld, Jolie Groeneveld (Cooper Tolson) and Dalton Ambrose. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Ella, James, Eli, Junie, Millee, Henry, Eleanor, and Tukker, as well as many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. 

Gale had a special gift for always letting you know exactly what he was thinking—good, bad, or otherwise—even when you didn't necessarily want to hear it. Compliments were few and far between, so when he gave one, you knew he meant it and you cherished it. 

He enjoyed tinkering in his "tinker barn," camping with family, listening to music, and being everyone's go-to Mr. Fix-It. But his greatest joy came from his girls, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were truly the light of his life. He could often be found in the stands, faithfully following them to sporting events and cheering them on.  

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the many lives Gale touched and the legacy he leaves behind. His honesty, sense of humor, stubborn determination, and love for his family will never be forgotten. Gale's faith was an important part of who he was, and we find peace in knowing that he has been welcomed home into God's loving arms. While we will miss his stories, his advice, and even his blunt opinions, we know his spirit will remain with us in the lessons he taught, the memories we share, and the love he gave so. 

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 24, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Thursday, June 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A celebration of life service will follow on Thursday, June 25, at 11:00 a.m., with a luncheon immediately afterward at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville), 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor Pat Binish officiating. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Resurrection Life Church Holland or Alma College Men's Wrestling (enter in the memo line "Gale Soules Memorial").