Jerry Alan Kelder, age 80, went home to be with Jesus on May 5, 2024. He was preceded in death by his sister, Wanda Gibbs; sister-in-law, Bonnie Bergman; and brother-in-law, Don Bakker. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Carla J. Kelder; brother, Robert (Pat) Kelder; sister, Diane Kelder (Sarah Wilson); sister-in-law, Susie (Denny) Boeve; brothers-in-law Dan Gibbs and Ron Bergman; son, Kurt (Shaunna) Kelder; daughter, Kara (Robert) Buchholz; grandsons Alex (Tristen) McKee, Jacob (Maddy Fendert, fiancée) Beer, Carson Beer; and granddaughter, Emily (Austin) Weaver.
Jerry was a devoted husband, father, papa, brother, and friend. He had a very deep faith in his savior Jesus Christ and served faithfully in his church. He served in the Army during the Vietnam conflict, followed by a career as a cost accountant for General Motors until he retired at age 55. After retirement, Jerry volunteered for Bibles for Mexico. He and Carla enjoyed traveling, spending many summers with friends and family at Sandy Pines and most of their retirement winters in Florida. Jerry was a kind man, always greeting you with a genuine smile and showing concern for the wellbeing of others. He was always happy to offer a hug or handshake to greet you and make you feel welcome. Although the family is grateful he is no longer suffering and is now waiting in heaven for us to join him, he will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be held from 6 - 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan. A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at Fair Haven Church, 2900 Baldwin St., Hudsonville, MI 49426, with visitation from 10 - 10:45 a.m. prior to service. In lieu of flowers and in memory of Jerry, contributions may be made to Faith Hospice or Sunset Legacy Foundation. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guest book online.
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