Philip Wiltjer

Philip Wiltjer, age 91, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, February 2, 2025. Phil will be greatly missed by his children: Sandy and Phil Ouwinga, Bob and Guernite Wiltjer, Sue and Rog Kuipers, John and Diane Wiltjer, along with 24 grandchildren and 60 great-grandchildren; sister, Betty TerKeurst; sister-in-law, Marilyn Heeren. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 69 years, Audrey (Heeren) Wiltjer; parents John and Gertrude Wiltjer; siblings Terry and Vern Warner, Jim and Lois Wiltjer; parents-in-law Elmer and Jean Heeren; brothers and sisters-in-law Richard Terkeurst, Ed and Pat Heeren, Robert Heeren, and Mary Stellema.

Phil was born March 25, 1933 to John and Gertrude Wiltjer. He was drafted into the US Army and stationed at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland. On September 9, 1954, he married the love of his life, Audrey. Phil was totally devoted to his Lord and Savior and his family. He was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He blessed the next generation with a legacy of faith, love, and servanthood.

Phil faithfully served his Church, his community, and ministries around the world. He served on the boards of Cutlerville Christian and South Christian Schools and as an elder and deacon in his Church multiple times. Together with Audrey, they were committed to volunteering in many mission organizations including Appalachia Reach Out, Seafarers Ministry, World Wide Christian Schools, World Renew, Missionary Flights International, and Safe Space Ministry. They took multiple trips to volunteer in Russian Orphanages for Bethany Christian Services. They were instrumental in the formation and growth of Sunlight Community Church in Port St. Lucie, FL. Through his loving, giving spirit, he changed eternity for many people.

God blessed Phil with an entrepreneurial spirit and over the years he was instrumental in starting a number of successful businesses. He started his produce business career at the age of 13 and then, after serving his country in the Army, he returned home and bought a partnership in Oppenhuizen’s Produce with Red Oppenhuizen. Together, they also started a very successful wholesale produce company, Top Distributing. With other partners, he began both Midway Motor Homes and Terrytown RV Center. Throughout the years, some other business ventures he was involved with included a Christmas tree farm, bakery, racquetball center, and numerous real estate developments around the state. Throughout his business successes, he always gave the glory to God and generously supported many Christian charitable organizations.

Phil and Audrey were blessed with the opportunity to travel extensively around the world and enjoyed many wonderful adventures together. They spent winters enjoying the sunshine of Florida and entertained friends and family regularly. They encouraged their grandchildren in their sports and music endeavors and didn’t hesitate to fly home to support them at their sporting events, plays, and concerts during the winter.

Phil's wise counsel and humble presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Visitation with family and friends will be from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at Cook Funeral Home, 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Friendship CRC, 190 100th St. SE, Byron Center, MI 49315, with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the tuition assistance fund at the Christian School of your choice or Missionary Flights International – 3170 Airman’s Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34946. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guestbook online.