Henry Junior Visser

Henry Junior Visser, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully went into the arms of his Lord on December 25, 2024, at the age of 99. He was born on October 15, 1925, at home in Holland, Michigan, to Jacob and Johanna (Zoet) Visser. Henrys legacy is one of service, love, faith, and a dedication to family and education.

Henrys life was marked by his service to his country during World War II. After graduating from Holland Christian High School in 1943 at the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving in the Pacific Theater. His service took him to Peleliu, Okinawa, and he participated in the occupation of China. He was honorably discharged on March 21, 1946, after which he pursued higher education at Hope College, earning a Bachelor of Education degree in June 1950.

In August 1950, Henry married the love of his life, Jayne Baker, in a double wedding ceremony with Jaynes identical twin sister Joyce. Together, they built a beautiful life, and Henry continued his education, earning a Master's in Educational Administration from Western Michigan University. In July 1955, they welcomed their first child, Tim, while teaching in Dowagiac. Later, they moved to Portage, where Henry taught math and science at Portage Central before becoming an assistant principal. As their family grew with the births of daughters Julie in 1957 and Katie in 1960, Henry's passion for education led him to become the first principal of Portage North Junior High, where he worked until his retirement in 1986.

Henrys interests extended beyond education. A passionate golfer, he played the sport as often as four times a week until he was over 90 years old, achieving the rare feat of three holes-in-one throughout his lifetime. During their early years of marriage, in the summer months, they ran a small breakfast restaurant called the Galley located on Lake Macatawa in Holland where Henry was the cook. He was also the breakfast cook at their home as well, making his famous egg-in-the-hole for his children and grandchildren. Henry and Jayne also shared a love for travel, enjoying numerous cruises and visits to destinations around the world. One of Henrys greatest joys was supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, watching them grow and cheering them on in their own endeavors.

As two of the founding members of Portage First United Methodist Church (now Pathfinder Church), Henry and Jaynes faith played a central role in their lives. Henrys dedication to his family, his faith, and his community was unwavering.

Henry is survived by his beloved wife of 74 years, Jayne; children, Tim Visser, Julie (Jerry) Phelps, and Katie (Jeff) Stryker-Clark; grandchildren, Jessica Moan, Nick Buford, Lisa Grabemeyer, Calin Visser, Amanda Clark, Claire Stryker, Chelsea Kuyper, Steven Stryker and Jolie Bierenga; 14 great-grandchildren; sisters, Betty (Dale) Mulder and Janice (Denny) Frederickson-Drake; brother-in-law, Bill Baker; sister-in-law, Wanda Baker; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and his special friend, Dean Bachelor.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Arvin, Jack, Delmar, and Harvey Visser; sisters, Elaine Petroelje and Alberta Otten; and grandson, Skyler Visser.

The family wishes to express special gratitude to Megan Myers of Story Point, all the caregivers at Laurus, especially Mary, Nicole, Caroline, Julie, Lisa, Alicia, Carmen, and Tyler, and Logan of Centrica Care Hospice. This special team of caregivers gave Henry, Jayne, and their entire family much

solace. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Henrys honor to the Kalamazoo Dream Center (where both Henry and Jayne volunteered for years) or Centrica Care Navigators (Hospice).

Details regarding funeral services and burial at Fort Custer National Cemetery will be announced at a later time.

Henry's life was a testimony of love, faith, and devotion. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his memory live on in the hearts of his family and friends.