Gerald Hilbrand Sr.

Gerald Jay Hilbrand Sr., age 90, of Jenison, was called home to be with Jesus on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

Gerald was a kind and loving husband, dad, and grandpa and was a man who always put his family first. His greatest happiness came from spending time with his family and making memories with them. The laughter, adventures, and time together brought immeasurable joy.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Alaska. His commitment to serving others was evident throughout his life, in the many ways he cared for those around him.

Over the years, he enjoyed riding motorcycles and snowmobiling, embracing the fun and adventure that came with both. He was also a charter member of Cottonwood Church.

He dedicated more than 30 years to Gordon Food Service before retiring. Retirement, however, did not slow him down. He later enjoyed delivering fire trucks for HME, a role that allowed him to continue working, meeting people, and doing something he enjoyed.

Above all, he will be remembered for his kind and loving spirit, his willingness to serve others, and the deep love he had for his family.

He was preceded in death by his son, Dennis Hilbrand; and sister, Josephine Meeuwenberg. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 67 years, Lois Hilbrand; children, Jerry Hilbrand Jr., Tammy Johnson, April and Steve Gort; daughter-in-law, Sally Hilbrand; grandchildren, Jordan and Dani Hilbrand, Cleigh and Melissa Hilbrand, Trevor and Kirsten Hilbrand, Brooke and Randall Sheehe, Shannon and Peter Osbo, Tanner and Macey Hilbrand, Joshua Johnson, Jewel and Jeremiah Gruchow, Jacob Johnson, Justine Johnson, Jared Johnson, Dylan Spielmaker and Laurel, Ashton and Sam Spielmaker, Keaton and Taylor Spielmaker, Mitchell Gort, Alison Gort; 23 great-grandchildren; sisters and brother-in-law, Marian Brookhouse, Elaine and Wayne Dragt; and several nieces and nephews. 

 Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Cottonwood Church, 1101 Cyprus Dr., Jenison, with Pastor Matt Palsrok officiating. The burial will take place at Georgetown Township Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Wednesday, August 26, from 5-8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW and on Thursday from 10-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to the service.