Jerry Van Solkema

Jerry Van Solkema, age 89, beloved husband of 68 years to Wilma Van Solkema (née Vermaat), went to be with his Lord on Monday, October 5, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His greatest joy was his family, and he took great pride in his children, nine grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren. He loved them deeply and was always interested in their lives, encouraging them and pointing them toward the Lord.

Jerry's faith in Jesus Christ was at the center of his life. He was a witness to many, not simply through his words, but through the way he lived. He served faithfully in church leadership and was committed to sharing the Gospel and serving others. Jerry was assured of his heavenly home, and his family finds comfort knowing that he is now with his Lord and Savior.

Throughout his life, Jerry worked faithfully in financial services and later assisted with the operations of Legacy Thrift – Bibles for Missions. In all that he did, he sought to honor God and further the Gospel message.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Wilma; his children, Kevin (Renita) Van Solkema, Lisa (Bill) Van Dyken, and Jeremy (Carol) Van Solkema; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sisters, Bernice (Bruce) Brummel and Joyce (Lee) Van Drunen; sister-in-law, Joan Van Solkema.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Henrietta Van Solkema; son, Jeffery Van Solkema; grandson, Lucas Van Solkema; and brother, Glenn Van Solkema.

Jerry leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, service, and devotion to his family. While he will be deeply missed, his family is grateful for the many years God gave them with him and rests in the assurance that this is not goodbye, but a temporary separation until they meet again in Christ.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. An additional visitation will be held on Friday, October 9, from noon-1 p.m. at the church prior to the service. A memorial service celebrating Jerry's life will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 9, at Baldwin Street Christian Reformed Church, 2101 Baldwin St., Jenison, with Rev. Ronald Baker and Rev. Don Van Slyke officiating. A time of fellowship will follow the service. A private graveside service will take place at Winchester Cemetery in Byron Center, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Legacy Thrift in Jenison (formerly Bibles for Missions).