James “Dutch” Van Singel, age 80, of Jenison, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. He passed away peacefully with loved ones by his side.

Dutch lived a life shaped by faith, family, hard work, and service. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force in Vietnam. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management from Ferris State University and spent much of his career overseeing operations and maintenance, including several years at the West Michigan Whitecaps’ ballpark and at Seymour Christian Reformed Church. Much of that work happened behind the scenes as he cared for places where people gathered, worshiped, and made memories.

Dutch had a thoughtful, attentive nature and took a sincere interest in the people he encountered. He made time to ask questions, learn someone’s story, and help when he saw a need. Those same qualities were evident in the way he showed up for his family. His children and grandchildren were the light of his life, and he made a point of being present for the moments that mattered to them.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 33 years, Arlene Brandt-Van Singel; his children, Kelly Van Singel and Kevin (Maggie) Van Singel; his stepdaughters, Ruth “Liz” Knoll and Anneke Konstantine; his grandchildren, Grant, Garrett, and Mia; his step grandchildren, Lindsy Miles, Timothy Nordyke, Promise Bishop, Mat Nordyke, and Kenny Springett; his brothers, Don (Jolene) Van Singel and Richard (Sara) Van Singel; his sister-in-law, Judy Van Singel; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Dutch was preceded in death by his brother, Maynard Van Singel.

Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, Grandville, 4145 Chicago Drive SW. Additional visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 11 a.m. to noon at Seymour Christian Reformed Church, 840 Alger Street SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49507. A funeral service will follow at noon. Burial will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may give to the Christian Education Fund at Seymour Christian Reformed Church.