Willis DeBoer

Willis DeBoer, age 97, went to be with his Lord and Savior Friday, January 2, 2026. Willis was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Marie “Molly” DeBoer; sister, Lucille; parents Walter and Lena DeBoer. He will be remembered by his children Lee (Carol) DeBoer and Len (Rita) DeBoer; grandchildren Jonathan (Jessica) DeBoer, Jeanne (Chad) Feenstra, Angela (Patrick) Meyering, Daniel (Heather) DeBoer, Amanda (Mark) Schierbeek, David (Bria) DeBoer, Justine (Joseph) Patmos; 20 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Willis was born in Holland, Michigan. From there, his family moved four times before they moved to a farm in Byron Center, when he was 13 years old. About a year later, his father became too disabled to work the farm and Willis, who was only 14 years old, was given the responsibility to run a 60-acre farm using horses. He ran the dairy farm for about 20 years, along with other jobs, and then drove a bulk milk truck for about 30 years. He also hauled cattle for another 15 years or so, all while still living and working on the farm. He dealt with many, many people over time and was always honest and well liked. Willis, throughout the years, has been an active member of Grace Bible Church where he served on the board, taught Sunday school, and was a youth group leader.

Visitation with friends and relatives will be held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A celebration of Willis’ life will commence 11 a.m. Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Grace Bible Church, 3715 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, MI, with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. In honor of Willis and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Grace Bible Mission Fund. The family welcomes memories and messages www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.