Obituary

Remembering Ross Witteveen

Ross Harold Witteveen, age 73, of Grand Rapids, took the hand of Jesus and entered his eternal home on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. Ross dedicated 35 years of his career as a truck driver with Empire Distributing, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dependability. Beyond his work, he treasured the friendships he built through the many coffee groups he faithfully attended over the years. Whether sharing stories, laughter, or simply enjoying time together over a cup of coffee, these gatherings were a meaningful part of his life. Throughout the years, Ross faced numerous health challenges with remarkable perseverance. Along the way, he also experienced many unexpected blessings and health miracles, for which he remained deeply grateful. His faith sustained him through every season, and he now rests in the presence of his Savior.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Mary Beth; his children and grandchildren, Nicholas and Jamie (Bree), Kathryn and Nick Myers (Emmett, Lennon); sister, Elise and Michael Katip; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jane and Donald Lindeman; nieces and nephews, Shawn and Desirae Katip, Jamie and John Allen, Anne and Garry Zylema; special friends, Buzz Kikkert, Todd Maleport, and Mark Neitzle.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, with Pastor Lindsey Burkey officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family  from Tuesday, July 28 from 5-8 pm at the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the American Kidney Fund

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Prayers as you grieve your dear husband, Mrs. Witteveen. My brother, Brian, just told me that he visited with you tonight. I will let Amy Z know and I’m sure she will pray for you as well. Yes, we are still best friends! You will always be remembered as my favorite fourth grade teacher at WSCS,Pine Street building. With sympathy and prayers, Cheryl

— Cheryl VanTuinen (Kass)

If I am not mistaken, I graduated with Tom from East Christian High School. The high school also attended by Donald Lindeman. I remember Ross as a "Good Guy." Quick with a smile and it was always good to see him in the hall. I am sure you will miss him and I wish all of his family nothing but the best.

— Randy Velzen

My deepest condolences to Mary Beth, Nick, and Katie. I’ve loved your family for so many years and admired your love for Ross and each other. Stay strong and feel the love and prayers coming your way.

— Marilyn Sorenson

We were so sorry to hear about Ross’s passing. We fondly remember the last time we “ran”into him and Mary Beth at The Real Food Cafe, such a fond memory. But we will always remember his faith as he faced major health challenges and overcame many. His faith was inspiration. We were lucky to get to know him through his daughter Kate and admire the love that she shared with him and with his We were lucky to get to know him through his daughter Kate and love that she shared that with him and his grand kids. We are keeping the Witteveen family in our thoughts and prayers today and in the days to follow. Please accept our deepest condolences as you embrace your grief journey, our hearts are with you. Joyce, Marty and Emery Lovse & Ema.

— Joyce & Marty Lovse

We were so sorry to hear Ross’s passing. We fondly remember the last time we “ran”into him and Mary Beth at The Real Food Cafe, such a fond memory. But we will always remember his faith as he faced major health challenges and overcame many. His faith was inspiration. We were lucky to get ti know him through his daughter Kate and love that she shared with him. We are keeping the Witteveen family in our thoughts and prayers today and in the days to follow. Please accept our deepest condolences as you embrace your grief journey, our hearts are with you. Joyce, Marty and Emery Lovse & Ema.

— Joyce & Marty Lovse

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