John Betten

John Betten, 83, laid his eyes on Jesus and joyfully and peacefully entered his forever home in heaven on October 24, 2024, after a battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born on April 27, 1941, to Herman and Wilhelmina Betten, John cherished his early years on the farm and childhood adventures in South Blendon. A true car man, he was a Ford man through and through. Above all, John was a faithful servant of his Savior, Jesus Christ. His greatest joy came from his family—he was a loving husband and a steadfast father to his daughters, always supporting and celebrating the achievements of his grandchildren while delighting in his great-grandchildren. John treasured time spent with his family and leading them to know and love his God. Known for his wit, he loved sharing jokes and telling tall tales that brought laughter to his loved ones. His wisdom, humor, and legacy of love will live on through his family. John dedicated 47 years to Zeeland Lumber, where he dispatched countless truckloads of lumber for building projects across West Michigan. He took pride in his hard work, always honoring God in his efforts. In retirement, he continued to serve by volunteering at City on a Hill in Zeeland, where he enjoyed both his “work” and the camaraderie over coffee with friends. He has been reunited in heaven with his treasured daughter, Kim Betten; grandson, Ryan Boerman; and siblings, Bob & Arlowa Betten, and Harriet and Al Dykstra. John is survived by the love of his life, Jan, his “Lovey,”; children: Diane and Darby Boerman, Judy Betten, Kris and Don Swackhammer, Jodi and Dave Heneveld; grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Josh Swackhammer, Emily Boerman, Nate and Monica Swackhammer (Aiden, Owen, Brysen), Marissa Boerman, Rachael and Aaron Walters (Noah, Adah, and Benjamin), Leah Heneveld, Seth Heneveld, Micah Heneveld; in-laws, Gary and Veryl Roberts, Verna and Earl Hulsman, Barb and Jon DeHaan, Linda Bekius, Karen and Scott Geerts, Kris Roberts, Kathy Roberts; many cherished nieces, nephews, and dear friends. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Upward Bound Ministries, 541 E Washington Ave, Zeeland, MI 49464 or visit www.ubministries.org. Visitation with the family is 4:00-7:00 pm on Monday, October 28, 2024, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St. Zeeland, MI 49464. Funeral services are at 9:00 am on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at First Reformed Church, 148 E. Central Ave. Zeeland, MI 49464. Burial to take place in Zeeland Cemetery. www.yntemafh.com

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John Betten

April 27, 1941 - October 24, 2024