Jackie VanSolkema (nee Dyer), age 92, passed away peacefully while surrounded by her family Tuesday, July 26, 2022. She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Ralph Bud VanSolkema; her parents Leonard and Audrey Dyer; son, Howard VanSolkema; daughter, at age six, Cheryl VanSolkema; and her siblings Verla Monroe and Crystal Alles. She will be lovingly remembered by her children Mick (Marcia) VanSolkema, Pam (Bruce) Carroll; siblings Betty Plotkin, Joan (Bob) Warner, L.D. (Vonnie) Dyer; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends.
Jackie moved to Byron Center from Detroit as a junior in high school. She graduated in the class of 1948 from Byron Center High School. She married the love of her life, Bud, August 18, 1948. Together, they owned and managed Grand Valley Floor Covering. Jackie taught Sunday school for many years at her church, First Reformed Church of Byron Center. She enjoyed spending time with her family and her good friend, Vivian, at her place at Sandy Pines. She will be missed by many.
A Celebration of Life visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, August 18, 2022 at First Reformed Church of Byron Center (The R.O.C.K.), 8425 Byron Center Ave. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315, with a time of sharing memories beginning at 4:30 p.m. In memory of Jackie and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association or First Reformed Church of Byron Center. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresbyron.com.
