Russ H. DeJonge's Obituary
Russell H DeJonge. March 15, 1945 - September 27, 2023
Fruitport, Michigan - Russ DeJonge, passed away peacefully at his home in Fruitport, Michigan on Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Russ was born March 15, 1945 in Zeeland, Michigan to Lloyd DeJonge and Anne (Timmer) DeJonge.
Survivors include Russ’s wife Wendy, the love of his life. His sister Carol (Marv) Allen. His children Kristi (Curt) VanKoevering, KJ (Tom) Hendrickson, Jay (Kel) Riggs, and Amy (Sam) Evans. Russ was blessed with nine grandchildren: Hannahjo VanKoevering, Moses (Hailey) VanKoevering, Bennett, Brahm, & Jack Hendrickson, Ayden & Alec Riggs, Sarah & Katie Evans and great granddaughter Haddie VanKoevering. Russ was preceded in death by his sister, Norma Sneller and his parents.
Russ’ work took him around the country, ultimately settling in Naples, Florida from 1988 until he retired in 2011, when he returned to Michigan to be closer to family.
Russ was a very active volunteer in the American Red Cross, where he was an instructor, a shelter manager in several national disasters from coast to coast, and supervised first aid at the local festivals. He also distributed food through Feeding America food trucks.
A Gathering is planned on Sunday, October, 8, from 4pm -7pm at Sytsema Funeral Home, The Lee Chapel, 6291 S Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
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