James Lee “Jim” Westerhuis

James Lee “Jim” Westerhuis, known to many of his friends simply as “JW,” passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and compassionate care, on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the age of 83. A longtime resident of West Michigan, Jim built a life centered around family, friendships, softball, and Corvettes.

Jim shared more than six decades of marriage with his longtime friend and love, Mary “Kay” Katherine Westerhuis, whom he married on December 22, 1960. Shortly after their marriage, Jim proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. His service took the young couple to California, where they welcomed their first son, James Dean. Following his military service, Jim and Mary returned to West Michigan, where they raised their family.

Together, Jim and Mary had three children: James Dean, John Lee, and Lynda Dee. Jim endured the loss of his daughter, Lynda, and, in January 2023, his beloved wife, Mary Kay, after more than 62 years of marriage. He is survived by his sons, Jim (Johanna) Westerhuis and John (Ann Marie) Westerhuis; adored grandchildren, Henry (Jennifer) Westerhuis, KayLee Westerhuis (Kolin Morgan), and Grace Westerhuis; and great-grandson, Hollis Westerhuis.

Softball was one of Jim’s greatest passions. He played competitively well into his 70s, and when his playing days were behind him, he certainly didn’t leave the field. For many years, JW coached first base for his son’s and grandchildren’s coed softball team, continuing through this past spring. Fittingly, he was at Leonard Field in Ada for the final game played there before the longtime field closed—one more game at a place that had been part of his life for so many years.

Deer hunting was another longtime tradition for Jim. For many years, he looked forward to deer camp in the Deadstream Swamp in Roscommon County, where time in camp was as much about the people as the hunt. He shared those years with his brother, sons, grandson, nephews, and a countless cast of characters, creating stories and memories that spanned generations.

Jim also loved his Corvettes. He and Mary were longtime members of the Grand Valley Corvette Association, where they shared their passion and formed many lasting friendships along the way.

Michigan was home, but Jim and Mary also became snowbirds, making Daytona Beach their second home and building another close circle of friends there.

After moving from Holland to Ada, Jim would make the trek three times a week to Holland to visit his friends at deBoer Bakkerij.

Those who knew JW knew he had a personality all his own. He could be stubborn, opinionated, and more than a little sassy—qualities he managed to hold onto right through his final days. His family and friends will remember him just as he was, along with all the stories, laughter, and history that come from a life shared across generations.

During Jim’s final days, his family was deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by the staff of Blodgett Hospital and Corewell Health Hospice. Their kindness, comfort, and support helped bring peace and dignity to Jim and his loved ones.

A casual Celebration of Life will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, with visitation from 2–4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s honor to Corewell Health Hospice through the Corewell Health Foundation at corewellhealth.org/give or by contacting Corewell Health Hospice.