James Henry Voetberg

James Henry Voetberg, 89, of Kentwood, MI left us peacefully on Friday, August 15, 2025, surrounded by his family.  A beloved husband, father, and grandfather, James, or “Jim,” will always be remembered for his generous spirit and willingness to help others.

Born on March 20, 1936 in Cutlerville, MI, Jim grew up the oldest son of Henry and Christine Voetberg and brother to two sisters and four brothers: Dorothy, Wendell, Clair, Bob, Ruth and Cal. When he wasn’t helping around the farm, Jim was studying at Grand Rapids Christian High School and eventually Calvin University and the University of Michigan.

Jim was devoted to his work as a social worker first as a probation officer, then as the first director of Wedgewood Acres and ending his career as a counselor for Pine Rest Christian Hospital.  Jim had a desire to help the hurting in his community. 

On June 24, 1966, Jim married the love of his life, Claire Ann DeWitt. The two shared a life together that lasted nearly 60 years and yielded three children and seven grandchildren.

Jim is survived by his wife, Claire; his son, Bryan “Buzz” (Marianne) Voetberg; daughters, Kathy (Randy) Buist and Krista Voetberg; as well as his grandchildren, Clara Voetberg, Ellie Voetberg, Reagan Voetberg, Gavin Voetberg, Anna Buist, Jaden Buist and Nadia Buist.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Christine Voetberg and his brother, Cal Voetberg. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave., Kentwood, MI. A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 30,2025 at the funeral home.   All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wedgewood Acres or Pine Rest Christian Hospital.