Since our founding in 1929, we have evolved with a deep-seated commitment to treating every family as our own. Through decades of growth our fundamental philosophy has remained unwavering: "To serve people as friends, personally and efficiently." 

Follow us through the highlights of our dedication to compassion, commitment, and care at Sytsema Funeral Homes.

Founded in Muskegon by John Sytsema, Sytsema Funeral Homes originated after John honed his profession in Jenison and McBain, Michigan. From its simple beginnings, the funeral home set the foundation for what would become a highly respected service in Muskegon County, embodying a commitment to serving the community with dignity and care.

Following John Sytsema's death in 1941, under Martin Sytsema's direction, the original location at 737 Apple Avenue saw three major expansions and additional land acquisitions. This period marked significant growth and the strengthening of the Sytsema legacy in funeral service, culminating in a pivotal merger with Max L. Walburn of Walburn Funeral Home in 1976, enhancing service options for Muskegon County families.

In a move to further support and serve the community, Lee Funeral Home, founded by Lewis B. Lee in 1920, joined forces with Sytsema Funeral Homes. This collaboration combined decades of shared values and dedication to compassionate service, reinforcing the commitment to treat every family with personal and efficient care.

Over 87 years since its founding, Sytsema Funeral Homes continues to embrace societal changes while maintaining its foundational philosophy: "To serve people as friends, personally and efficiently." This enduring commitment ensures that the Sytsema and Lee families' traditions of compassion and service remain at the heart of all operations, honoring every individual's legacy with dignity and respect.

VBK Funeral Services has been a pillar of the Grand Haven and Spring Lake communities for nearly a century. Founded on the principles of integrity, excellence, and honor, we have grown from our humble beginnings into a beacon of compassionate service.

Join us as we explore the milestones that have shaped our journey and celebrate the enduring legacy of VBK Funeral Services.

Govert VanZantwick, a descendant of Dutch settlers and a World War I Coast Guard veteran, founded VanZantwick Funeral Home after graduating from Worsham College of Embalming and working for John J. Boer and Son. In 1926, he purchased a property on Washington Avenue in Grand Haven, establishing Ottawa County's first stand-alone funeral home on land acquired by pioneer Jonathan Butler in 1835.

Herman VanZantwick, Govert's son, took over the operations after his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Under his leadership, the firm continued to serve the Grand Haven community, maintaining the family's commitment to integrity and excellence.

The VanZantwick Funeral Home merged with Kinkema-Bartels and Kammeraad Funeral Homes, expanding its services and locations. This strategic move integrated operations into 620 Washington, Grand Haven, and retained the Kammeraad home in Spring Lake, marking a significant milestone in the funeral home's history.

Dale VanZantwick, representing the third generation, joined in 1973, with leadership passing on after Herman's retirement in 1981. The retirement of key figures in 2011 and 2015 led to the Sytsema family's stewardship, continuing the VanZantwick legacy of serving the communities of Grand Haven and Spring Lake with unwavering dedication and honor.