Jean Ruth VanDyk

Jean Ruth (nee Timmer) VanDyk, age 92, was called to her heavenly home June 25, 2024, in Byron Center, Michigan. Born July 28, 1931, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Jean lived a life marked by humility, a profound respect for all of God's creation, and an unwavering commitment to exemplifying the love of Christ through her actions and words.

Jean graduated from Grand Rapids Christian High School in 1949. In 1981, she answered a calling as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Laurels, caring for others with a gentle hand and a compassionate heart. Jean then became the beautician at the Laurels until 2017, where she used her talents to uplift and bring joy to those around her. Later in life, she lovingly applied her CNA training in caring for her husband, Henry, in his time of need.

Jean's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Once established in Hudsonville, she and her family became devoted members of Zutphen Christian Reformed Church in Hudsonville, where she, alongside Marian VanderJagt, established a lending library, nourishing the minds and spirits of the congregation. Jean's almond bars were a manifestation of her love at church events, and her voice in the church choir was a testament to her belief in the power of praise and worship.

In her life, Jean embraced the virtues of patience and dedication, which shone brightly as she and her husband, Henry, hand-built their first two homes, creating a foundation of love and stability for their family. Music was a thread woven through the fabric of her life, a gift she shared generously with her loved ones. Jean's spirit of adventure led her to explore the world, each journey an expression of gratitude for the vastness of God's creation.

Jean's earthly journey is succeeded by her loving sons Andrew, David (Angela Tolly), Marc (Marilyn Meyer), Thomas (Irene Oosterveld), and Marvin (Renee VanPatten); her legacy further lives on through her 16 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. She now joins, in eternal peace, her beloved husband, Henry; mother, Jeanette Timmer (nee Melissant); father, Bert Timmer; grandson, Matthew VanDyk; sister, Elizabeth; and brother-in-law, Rev. John VanRyn.

A visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Sunday, June 30, 2024 at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418, providing an opportunity to honor Jean's memory. A service of remembrance and celebration will take place 11 a.m. Monday, July 1, preceded by an hour of visitation, at Zutphen CRC, 3223 40th Ave., Hudsonville, MI 49426. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Zutphen CRC Mission Fund in Jean's memory, continuing her legacy of service and love.