Gerald L. Van Solkema

On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, Jerry Van Solkema went to be with his Lord and Savior at the age of 73. He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris Van Solkema; infant son, Samuel Van Solkema; brothers-in-law John Carter and Samuel F. Carter; mother- and father-in-law Bertha and Samuel Carter. He is survived by his wife, Judy Van Solkema; children Sarah Van Solkema (Jeff Selph), Jenny (Rob) Volz, and Jeff (Megan) Teed; grandchildren RJ Volz, Leila Volz, Jakob Selph, and Jaxon Selph; father, Charles Van Solkema; and sister, Sue Van Solkema.

Jerry learned the value of hard work as a child growing up on a farm. Out of high school, he was drafted into the Army, where he proudly served as a chef in Washington D.C. From there, he married the love of his life, Judy. The two of them would later adopt three children from South Korea. Jerry gave many faithful years to General Motors, where he eventually earned the position of Team Leader. He loved night lake fishing with his father and children. He also happily dedicated volunteer hours, dawn to dusk, at elections held in his district.

Jerry will be remembered for his kindness, goodness, sense of humor, and his love and devotion to his family. He was a dear friend to many, cherished for his laughter and love. His memory will live on in our hearts forever.

Visitation will be held from 4 - 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at Cook Funeral Home – Byron Center Chapel, 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, Michigan. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at Byron Center Bible Church, 8855 Byron Center Ave. SW., Byron Center, MI 49315, with visitation from 10 - 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers and in memory of Jerry, memorial contributions may be made to Byron Center Bible Church or Faith Hospice. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guest book online.