Gerald J. Wilterink, age 65, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, November 22, 2017. Jerry was a good man, with a kind heart. He loved his Lord and Savior, and he loved his family. He lived his life in Cascade and Ada, and some may remember seeing the custom license plate on his Jeep, combining the names of the two towns. He was a member, and faithful servant, at Thornapple Evangelical Covenant Church in Cascade. He sold real estate for twenty-five years with Greenridge Realty and Keller Williams Realty, and before that, he worked for Country Fresh Dairy. Jerry survived more than one serious medical problem in the course of his life, and it gave him perspective. He knew to cherish every day and live it to the fullest, and he lived with gratitude in his heart. His understanding of those with health problems also led him to serve with the Pediatric Oncology Resource Team (PORT), on the board of directors, and as a respite volunteer. Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Judson Wilterink, and is survived by his mother, Jean Wilterink. He is lovingly remembered by Wendy, his wife of twenty-six years, his children, Jodi (Chris) Bast, Jennifer (Bill) Loveless, Jeremy (Kara) Wilterink, his step-children, Frank (Regina) Bednarsky and Holly Bednarsky, his six siblings, and his eleven grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at Thornapple Evangelical Covenant Church, 6595 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids. Relatives and friends may meet the family Saturday from 12-2 pm prior to the service at the church. Those who wish to make memorial contributions may do so to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital/Pediatric Oncology Resource Team (PORT).
Leave Your Tribute Message
November 24, 2017 2:38pm
I know Jerry will be missed by many. My fondest memories are he and I working together as I try to teach him technology. We had a lot of laughs together while at KW. I miss running into him at forest hills foods at lunch. My prayers and thoughts to all.
- Michelle Gordon
November 24, 2017 2:16pm
Wendy,
I spoke with Cooky today and she shared the news of Jerry's passing. I am so sorry. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love, Joan Baker
- Joan Baker
November 24, 2017 11:09am
Dear sweet Jen,and family, So sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my prayers. Love you, Kathy
- Kathy Oesch Brown
November 24, 2017 6:51am
Wendy and family I am very sorry for your lost. I had the honor of working with Jerry for years in real estate. He was always gracious, freindly, enjoyable to be with whether in the office, on the golf course or sharing a beverage. I am glad to have known him. May the arms of our Lord comfort you during this time. Mike Oostendorp
- Mike Oostendorp
November 22, 2017 5:34pm
Your family is in my prayers, I’m so sorry. I have so many memories of Sandy Pines. One in particular when I crashed the golf cart with Jodi and we walked all the way back to tell Jerry instead of my own dad because we knew Jerry would fix it and wouldn’t tell my dad how it happened. He of course came to the rescue and towed my cart back to his place and fixed it..Jerry was the cool dad for sure! I will never forget those times with the Wilterink’s. Now he is home to be with the Lord, May he Rest In Peace.
- Mary Van Spronsen
November 22, 2017 5:32pm
Jodi,
Your Dad was an early influence on me and my career and life. I met him when I was 21 and fresh out of college and I called in his office and he was so extremely kind and genuine! He became a friend and mentor to me and soon sold me and my husband our first home. ( there is a great story to go with that also)!
He resonated kindness and sincerity and I count him as someone I was lucky to meet.
I am very sorry for your loss and the emotions that come with losing a Father. I wish you and your family God’s peace and love and will pray for you during this difficult time.
- She Pastoor
November 22, 2017 2:47pm
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We had so many good times at Sandy Pines with your dad. I didn’t know about his volunteering with children.. a wonderful gift he gave..
sending you love and light as you face life without him. ❤️
- Susan and Phil Koster
Order flowers for Gerald's service.
Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement
Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)
Beautiful Blessings Wreath