Wayne J. Haverdink

Wayne J. Haverdink, age 94, of Jenison, went to his heavenly home on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Born on June 28, 1931, to the late James and Alice Haverdink, Wayne devoted his life to dairy farming and faithfully planted corn for more than 80 years. He was active in numerous agricultural boards and leadership roles and served his church and Christian school boards in many capacities throughout the years.       Even in his later years, he remained involved in the family farm. For the past 25 winters, he and his wife treasured their time in Nettles Island, Florida. He especially enjoyed playing horseshoes. Wayne also cherished time spent with his family and friends.

Wayne married Frances Rillema on March 19, 1953, and together they celebrated over 69 years of marriage before she preceded him in death.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Arlyss (Rog) VanEerden, Kirk (Kim) Haverdink, Karla (Brian) Styf, Carmen (Doug) VanNoord; grandchildren, Margo (Chad) Rhoderick, Justin (Melissa) VanEerden, Tyler (Michelle) VanEerden, Nate Haverdink, Amber (Kyle) Grice, Kylie (Jared) Haverkamp, William (Brianna) Styf, Jennie (Andrew) Teijen, Emma (Brice) VanOss, Tyce (Kelsey) VanNoord, Sydney (Anthony) Langeland, Kade (Makayla) VanNoord; 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson; siblings, Marian Schild, Ken (Cheryl) Haverdink, Gord Haverdink, Barb (Bill) Peuler, Audrey (Randy) Palmitier; sister-in-law, Donna Haverdink; brother-in-law, Harley Rillema; and many nieces and nephews and dear friends. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Carl Haverdink; brother-in-law, Lee Schild; and sister-in-law, Jan Haverdink. 

A graveside service took place at Georgetown Township Cemetery. A celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, December 10, at 7 p.m. at Baldwin Street Christian Reformed Church, 2101 Baldwin St., Jenison, with Rev. Ron Baker officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Wednesday from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at the church prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Baldwin Street Christian Reformed Church Mission Fund. 

The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed via this link.