Edward Harry DeGraaf, Sr.

Edward Harry DeGraaf, age 95, of Jenison, formerly of Wyoming, entered into the arms of his Savior on Thursday, November 5, 2026. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Mill’e; his children, Edward, Jr., and Cheryl DeGraaf (Meagan and Matthew Spoelstra, Paige and David Carter); Fred and Donna DeGraaf (Peter and Ashley DeGraaf and their children, Elijah, Abigail, Isaiah and Lydia; Joseph and Kelsey DeGraaf and their children, Sadie and James; Elizabeth and Austin Ramey and their children, Esther and Hendrik); Julie and William Staal (Matthew and Katie Staal and their children, James and Isla; Luke and Riley Staal and their child, Saylor; Hannah and Alex Strating). He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Marce Leestma; and brother-in-law, John and Marge Kuiper. He was predeceased by his parents and several in-laws.

A man of profound integrity, Edward was kind, gracious and generous to all. He especially loved spending time with his eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Summer weeks camping in Pentwater and several family trips to Florida were special memories for the entire family. After retiring, RV trips around the country with Mill’e were treasured as well. His sense of humor and quirky sayings are fondly remembered.

Edward was a founding member of Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf funeral homes. He was a longtime funeral director who compassionately and professionally served families in the Grand Rapids area in their time of grief. Edward also served our country honorably in the Korean War.

The church and his faith were central to his life. Over the years, Edward served on the council of several churches he faithfully attended every Sunday. He particularly appreciated the many pastors and congregation of his longtime church, Cornerstone United Reformed.

The family offers special thanks to the staff in the Reflections unit at Sunset Senior Communities and Emmanuel Hospice for their compassionate care.

Visitation with the family will be 9:30-10:45 a.m., Tuesday, November 10, at Cornerstone URC, Hudsonville, MI. The funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. A private graveside service will be held afterwards.

Memorial contributions may be made to Reformed Youth Services.