Winnetta De Jong

Winnetta De Jong obituary, Hudsonville, MI

Winnetta De Jong

Winnetta De Jong Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by VanderLaan Funeral Home - Hudsonville on Jul. 18, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Winnetta "Nettie" De Jong, a cherished mother, devout Christian, and lover of life's simple joys, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at the age of 96 in Holland, Michigan. Nettie, as she was affectionately known by her friends and Beppe by her family, was born on May 29, 1929, in the small town of Randolph, Wisconsin, where her passion for the beauty of nature and her commitment to faith and family first took root.

Nettie's life was marked by her unwavering devotion to her loved ones and her faith. Her role as an amazing wife and mom was her most treasured work, a testament to the love and wisdom she imparted to her children. Her guidance was a constant source of strength and inspiration, and her legacy as a nurturing and kind-hearted matriarch will be carried forward by those who were fortunate to feel her influence.

A woman of deep Christian faith, Nettie lived her beliefs through her actions, offering kindness, compassion, and support to everyone she encountered. Nettie's gentle spirit and unwavering conviction were beacons of light, leading by example and encouraging others to cultivate their own relationship with God.

Nettie's interests were a reflection of her inner grace and tranquility. She found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as the delicate beauty of flowers and the serene presence of angels, which she collected in various forms. Her love for puzzles showcased her patience and focus, traits that she applied to all areas of her life and that taught valuable lessons to those around her.

Winnetta was pre-deceased by her husband, Bill, in 2001, son-in-law, Don Nessner, parents, brothers and sisters. Winnetta is survived by her children Nancy Nessner, Dianne Behrens, Bill (Rose) De Jong, Dorothy (Lindsey) Sullivan, Nick (Cheryl) De Jong; 12 Grandchildren and their spouses, 24 (and one on the way!) great grandchildren; Siblings Arnie (Gerry) Dykstra, Jelene (Marv Baas) Van Dyk, Bill Dykstra and many nieces and nephews.

In honor of Nettie's beautiful life, a time of visitation will be held on Saturday, August 9, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at VanderLaan Funeral Home with the Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Winnetta's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Winnetta De Jong's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Winnetta De Jong's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?