Joshua Andrew Hector, age 18, of Grandville passed away peacefully and very unexpectedly in his sleep on Christmas morning, Monday, December 25, 2023. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Steven Hector, Carl Ramroth, and Robert Clarke. He will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Andy and Sarah Hector; sisters and brother, Katie, Jacob, and Violet; grandparents, Jo Ann Hector-Clarke, Kay Ramroth; uncles and aunts, Tom and Michelle Hector, Becky and James Kruth, Susan Remar; cousins, Ashlea (Dylan), Brendon, Aiden, Isabel, Wyatt, Kingston, Vivian; girlfriend, Avery Gildea; and many more dear friends and extended family. Josh loved music, playing the guitar, leading worship and writing songs. He also loved animals, being outdoors and helping people. He was an Eagle Scout, very involved in his Mars Hill Youth Group and the H2O Church in Kalamazoo while he was studying at Western Michigan University. He was a natural leader, loving people through serving and very committed to his work at Camp Sunshine of Holland, MI. Funeral services will be held at 12 pm on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at Mars Hill, 3501 Fairlanes Ave. SW, Grandville, with Pastor Kyle Lake and Pastor Nikki Grasmeyer officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday, December 29, from 5-8 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW and at the church one hour prior to the funeral on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to Camp Sunshine.
Visitation
Saturday, December 30
11:00am - 12:00pm
Mars Hill
3501 Fairlanes Ave SW
Grandville, MI 49418
Get Directions
Funeral Service
Saturday, December 30
12:00pm
Mars Hill
3501 Fairlanes Ave SW
Grandville, MI 49418
Get Directions
Leave Your Tribute Message
December 29, 2023 11:18pm
Dear Family and Friends,
Ryan Fuss is our nephew and we heard such wonderful, living words to describe Joshua and the deep sadness Ryan feels for the loss of his friend. We are so very sorry to hear of your tremendous loss.
We are so especially sorry dear parents and siblings—we have a son and nephew Ryan, Joshua’s age, and we could never imagine or want to do a second in your shoes.
Deepest Sympathy,
Amy and Dave, Aunt and Uncle to Ryan Fuss
- Amy and Dave
December 29, 2023 9:59pm
My heart breaks for Josh’s family at this time of devastating loss. My deepest sympathies are extended to each of you. May the Lord guide you through this difficult period.
- Sue Hjort
December 29, 2023 6:09pm
I am deeply saddened and really sorry to hear this news. I met Josh in September 2023 when college courses began this past semester. We had 1 class together and were both members of a student organization on-campus. We talked with each other time-to-time. I sat next to him at a banquet right before winter break and we all enjoyed conversing with him and getting to know him that evening. He had an amazing heart, was a very clever person, and was destined to have a successful career in accounting.
- Frans Tanade
December 29, 2023 6:03pm
Josh truly lit up every room he entered and was such a kind and thoughtful person. Although I did not have the opportunity to know him for long, I'm so glad I got to know the amazing person that he is. I am praying for his friends and family.
-Alyssa Krazel
- Alyssa Krazel
December 29, 2023 4:03pm
I was given the chance to get this past semester. In the short time I was able to get to know him, he has shown compassion to people. My condolences to people he knew and are close to, especially friends and family.
- Anastasia krystabel
December 29, 2023 4:01pm
We are so sorry to hear about Josh’s passing. As Marcelo’s roommate at Western Michigan University, we got to meet Josh’s sweet family on move in day and got to know Josh a little more through Marcelo. We often heard about his passion for playing the guitar and love for his new kitten. Our hearts go out to Josh’s family. May God comfort all of them during this very difficult time. So very sorry!
- Ana, Matt and Marcelo Barnes
December 29, 2023 3:50pm
Josh was one of the first peers I met at WMU. On a couple of occasions, we would sit out on the patio of our dorm while he played guitar. He was always so friendly and kind to everyone that he met. My family and I are so sorry for your loss.
Blake Robey
- Blake Robey
December 29, 2023 3:40pm
Although I didn't know Josh for long I knew he was a very charismatic guy who always wanted to help in anyway he could. He was a great friend for the short time I knew him. My condolences go to his family especially.
- Emlyn Verbrigghe
December 29, 2023 3:33pm
My heartfelt condolences to anyone who knew Josh, especially his family. From the short time I knew Josh I could tell he was an amazing and very intelligent guy. I loved talking to him about how much each of us had grown since being enrolled at Western.
- Ben Fassett
December 28, 2023 6:24pm
Deep heartfelt condolences for this loss of Josh. I just had this most outstanding young Joshua in my class at WMU and I hear his voice now. He was a beautiful bright contributor to my days with him. I thank him and his family for the gift of his presence in a life cut short. Joshua is in my thoughts.
- Thomas Kostrzewa
December 28, 2023 4:54pm
Though I haven't talked to Joshua much, every time I did it was a memorable and fond experience. He offered me a follow to his instagram where I would listen to him play the guitar. It was as if the music flowed though him effortlessly. A talent of passion. I hope he is able to rest well, and I am terribly sorry for the loss
- Delaney McDonald
December 28, 2023 3:58pm
While we never met Joshua, when our own son was 18, I was a coworker with Sarah. Andy helpfully prepared our son for the state wrestling championship unselfishly. Joshua's parents are wonderful people. We grieve so deeply for Sarah, Andy and Joshua's siblings. Our Lord knows grief and we praise Him that Joshua is in Paradise with Jesus.
- Ed & Shari Krasinski
December 28, 2023 11:22am
My heart is shattered. I honestly have no words . I just wanted to get on here and Thank Josh and his family . Josh , my family only got you in our lives for a short time . But the impact you had on us was tremendous. Your laugh, your smile , You never failed to say hi when you were on FaceTime or a call with Avery . The way your cared and loved my daughter did not go unnoticed. I will be forever grateful that you found each other . Sarah , Andy , Katie , Jacob & Violet , From the bottom of my heart thank you for welcoming and loving Avery.
I can’t take away the pain you are feeling but I’m here .
- Becky
December 27, 2023 9:35pm
My sincerest condolences. May God help you find peace during this difficult time.
- Daniel Granados
December 27, 2023 9:34pm
Josh was such a loving example of Jesus, always putting others first and living a life of service and humility. He was so kind and gentle. He was a friend to everyone he met. He was so loved and will be greatly missed. Praying you feel peace and comfort from our Heavenly Father. We love you all.
- Beth Stone
December 27, 2023 9:07pm
So many achievements in such a short life. Rest in peace dear sweet young man. To the family I am so sorry for your loss. Cherish all your memories and hold each other tight.
- Nancy Susan Marsh
