Belva DeVree

Belva DeVree, age 94, of Jenison, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, and is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Belva was born in Holland, Michigan, to the late Edward and Minnie Van Tatenhove and graduated from Holland Christian High School. She will be remembered as a kind and loving woman whose servant’s heart touched countless lives. She was always ready to help those in need, whether through friendship, a listening ear, a meaningful conversation, or practical support. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she demonstrated her love for Jesus each day through her actions, compassion, and care for others.

A dedicated volunteer, Belva generously gave her time to several organizations, including the gift shop at Butterworth Hospital, where she enjoyed serving visitors and staff. She found joy in simple pleasures such as knitting, working puzzles, and playing games with family and friends. Belva also enjoyed traveling and creating memories in many beautiful places throughout the years, with Hawaii holding a special place in her heart as her favorite destination.

Belva and her husband were the former owners and founders of Jenison Auto Sales, beginning the family business in 1955. Through hard work, dedication, and integrity, they built a legacy that continues through the business today.

Above all else, Belva’s love for Jesus and her family was evident to everyone who knew her. Her faith, kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will be cherished and remembered for generations to come.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed, in 2002; and her grandson, Ross Michael DeVree, in 1981. Belva will be lovingly remembered by her children, Mike and Sallie DeVree, Sue and Mark Gazan, and Amy and Gary Van Dyken; grandchildren, Stacey and Jerod Aukeman, Kristi and Paul Schelhaas, Scott and Katie DeVree, Esther and Dave Vanhaitsma, Jacki and Brandon Deiter, Jodie and Marcus DeBoer, Sarah and Ryan Dillon, and Rachel and Mike Lanser; 25 great-grandchildren; special family friend, Anthony Torrone, of whom Belva loved as a son; and several loving nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to express their sincere thanks and appreciation to the staff of The Oaks at Jamestown for the love, friendship, and compassionate care given to Belva during her time there over the past two years. 

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Standale Reformed Church, 202 Cummings Ave NW, Grand Rapids, with Rev. Jess Shults officiating. The burial will be held at Georgetown Township Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Sunday from 1:30-3:00 p.m. prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Other Way Ministries.