William “Bill” DeKraker

William E. DeKraker, age 91, of Jenison, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, January 30, 2026. Bill was a kind and loving husband, father, and grandfather, known for his warm heart and wonderful sense of humor.

He was born in Falmouth, Michigan, to the late Cornelius and Mary (Van Haitsma) DeKraker, and later made his home in Grand Rapids. Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army as a member of the Military Police.

Blessed with a strong work ethic, Bill retired from Steelcase after 36 years of dedicated service. He faithfully served his church in many roles throughout the years, including Elder, Deacon, and as a member of various committees. Above all, Bill’s deep love for his Lord and his family was evident to all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, AnnaMae (Donald) Dieterman, Charles DeKraker, Winneva (Bud) Veltema, and Robert (Joyce) DeKraker. 

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 66 years, Ruth DeKraker; children, Linda and Thomas VanderWoude, Mark and Kathy DeKraker; grandchildren, Nathan and Molly VanderWoude, Lisa VanderWoude, Kalysta DeKraker, Matthew DeKraker, Mark DeKraker, Amanda DeKraker; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Robert and Norma Kuiper, Kenneth and Eunice Kuiper, Kathy Spaman, Brian and Lori Kamminga; and several loving nieces and nephews. 

A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3, at Southwest Protestant Reformed Church, 4875 Ivanrest Ave. SW, Grandville, with Professor Ron Cammenga officiating. The service will also be livestreamed on the church's website. A private burial will take place at Grandville Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Tuesday from 6-7 p.m. at the church prior to the service. The family would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff and caregivers of Corewell Health Hospice for the love and compassionate care given to Bill.