Jeffery S. Cleveland

Jeff Cleveland, 63, of Portage, peacefully passed away at home on the morning of Saturday, April 6, surrounded by loved ones after a five-year battle with cancer. Born January 31, 1961, to Carl and the late Kathy (Kuntz) Cleveland, he was a 1979 graduate of Portage Central High School.

Jeff dedicated his career to Impact Label Corporation for 45 years, working primarily as a pressman, where he met his wife of 39 years, Sara (VanHouten). Wedded in 1985, they created a beautiful life with two daughters to whom they dedicated their lives. Whether traveling hours on the road to make it from one softball tournament to the next or heading up north to Baldwin to spend time with his family, Jeff was always committed to pursuing happiness through his family’s endeavors.

Jeff enjoyed spending time at the family property in Baldwin—riding ORV trails (with his dogs, too!), working on projects around the property, bird watching, practicing target shooting on the shooting range, scaring away the bears, and much more. He had so much knowledge of sports and music stats that he enjoyed quizzing his family and passing on that knowledge (13-hour car rides will do that!). With his quick wit, he could bring a smile to anyone and everyone.

Jeff was preceded in death by his mother, Kathy, and brother, Troy. He is survived by his father, Carl; wife, Sara; daughters, Michelle and Shannon (and a soon-to-be son-in-law, Devin); brothers, Mark (Cindy) and Todd (Jodie); many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial gathering will occur on Thursday, April 11, 2024, from 12-2 p.m. at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 411 E. Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49002, followed by a brief service at 2:00 p.m. Forever the Notre Dame Fighting Irish fan, the family asks you to wear your favorite Notre Dame or sports team apparel in honor of Jeff. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Centrica Care Navigators or the American Cancer Society.