Nathan Jay Nauta's Obituary
Nathan Jay Nauta, age 94, of Spring Lake passed away Friday, July 20, 2018, at Robbinswood Assisted Living. He was born February 19, 1924, in Grand Rapids to Thomas and Tillie (Versluis) Nauta, and married Jean Knottnerus on June 23, 1950, in Grand Rapids. Jean preceded him in death on July 25, 2014.
Jay was a member of Bethel Baptist Church of Fruitport. He served the Lord as a missionary with his wife for 50 years in the Dominican Republic. Jay served in the Navy during WWII. He was an avid painter.
He is lovingly remembered by two daughters, Esther (Robb) Smith of Waukesha, WI and Marilyn Nauta of Brookfield, WI; his son, Steve (Janice Esh) Nauta of Spring Lake; six grandchildren: Nathan Nauta, Allison Powers, Nicholas Nauta, Benjamin Esh-Nauta, Joel Smith and Jordan Smith; six great-grandchildren: Nora, Iain, Camryn, Cohen, Riley and Madison; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Ann and Ida; and his brother, Paul Nauta.
A funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, July 28, 2018, at Bethel Baptist Church of Fruitport 213 W. Oak Street, Fruitport, MI. 49415 with Rev. Lee Coggin officiating. Friends may meet the family one hour prior to the service at church. Interment will be in Spring Lake Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Bethel Baptist Church of Fruitport are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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