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Jerry VanKuiken Obituary
Dr. Jerry Evert VanKuiken, 78, of East Jordan and formerly of Grand Haven, died on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at his home near East Jordan.
He was born on November 26, 1946, in Grand Rapids, the son of Frank and Edith Mae (Swart) VanKuiken. He graduated from East Kentwood High School in 1964 and Calvin College in 1968. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam Conflict from 1969 to 1972. Upon return, he received his medical degree from Wayne State University in 1978.
He married Sharon Kay Nysson on September 6, 1968, in Grand Rapids.
As a pediatrician, Jerry spent more than 40 years taking care of kids. He retired in 2015. He then moved to East Jordan and graciously took care of kids at the East Jordan Family Health Center until 2018.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon "Sherri" VanKuiken of East Jordan; one son, Jeff (Christy) VanKuiken of Grand Haven; four grandchildren: Stephanie VanKuiken of Holland, Megan VanKuiken of Kalamazoo, Caleb (Jazmyn) VanKuiken of Charlevoix and Nathan (Kaylee Blackstock) VanKuiken of Bad Axe; as well as one great-grandson, Carter VanKuiken of Charlevoix. He was preceded in death by one son, Matthew VanKuiken; his parents; and one brother, Evert Vankuiken.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Community Reformed Church in Charlevoix. There will be a visitation held from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Charlevoix Reformed Church in Charlevoix. Arrangements by the Penzien Funeral Homes Inc., East Jordan, Michigan.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jerry VanKuiken
Ray Breiding
June 6, 2025
One of the kindest people I ever knew and a great physician
Ruth (Calkins) Sweet
May 2, 2025
VK, as staff in the Grand Haven Pediatric office called him, was one of the very best! Always there to lend a shoulder to cry on and some Godly advice. He loved to tease staff but you knew if you needed someone to talk to, he´d be there! God called a great man home! He will be missed! Love to Sherri and family!
Dan & Cindy Kleymeer
April 25, 2025
Our family was truly blessed to have Dr. Jerry as the pediatrician for our two children. We were extra blessed to have his family living next door to us. He and Sherrie were called by God to help us deal with the loss of our daughter, reminding us that we still have two children. Great neighbors, great friends; so sad, yet so happy he is at peace in Heaven.
Karen Huff
April 22, 2025
Dr. VanKuiken was my daughter's Pediatrician. I am so very greatful to him for his knowledge and kindness in helping me with her disabilities. We were there quite often and I never felt rushed, he was always available to talk to or calm me - He was a wonderful doctor. Sincere condolences to the VanKuiken family.
Bev Such
April 21, 2025
Dr. VanKuiken was both our daughter and son´s pediatrician along with Dr. Venneman. We loved them both and they were a great pair for sure.
Therese and Henry
April 20, 2025
I worked for him at Pediatrics. He was a great boss. He will be missed. Hugs to his family.
Martha Katt
April 19, 2025
Dr. VanKuiken was always compassionate and caring for his patients and their families. The support he gave to us professionals and our children is beyond measure
Terri Arbogast Start
April 19, 2025
Dr VanKuiken was both my children´s pediatrician. My son had autism, of course we didn´t know it at the time, but he was so supportive and kind as we tried everything to comfort this child. He never made me feel crazy, always listened to me and told me over and over I knew him best. I am forever grateful to him, he found the right help for him and now Michael is 27 years old and I have never forgotten Dr. VanKuiken´s kind words and support! Rest is peace!!
Julia Davey
April 19, 2025
I am devastated to hear of Jerry´s passing. He was a wonderful partner, mentor, and friend. Love to Sherrie, Jeff, Christie, and all the grandkids.
Dan and Joyce Workman
April 18, 2025
Our family was blessed to have Dr. VanKuiken as our boys´ pediatrician.
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