Jeffrey Alan Remtema, age 53 of Grand Rapids, passed away Thursday, September 26, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Deidre; sons, Marek, Bram; parents, Daniel and Ruth Remtema; parents-in-law, Mark and Lori LaCroix; brother, Todd (Heather) Remtema; sisters, Denise Remtema, Michelle (Kevin) VanderHeide; sisters-in-law, Sarah LaCroix (RJ Volosky), April LaCroix (Matt Meador), Gloria LaCroix; many aunts and uncles; 13 nieces and nephews; and canine companion, Lizzy.
Humble, trusted, and humorous; these are a few of the many words that could be used to describe Jeff. He was a man with a wealth of knowledge and could connect easily with people discussing a variety of topics. Jeff received his MBA from the University of Michigan and his Masters in Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture. He loved to build things for other people to enjoy. Jeff had a thirst for sharing the inner workings of things; it became a fun family game to see what he knew on random topics. Jeff enjoyed simplicity; he was able to apply that to his life from his time living in Switzerland during college. He was proud of his wife and kids, and always lit up when he would share what they were up to. His enthusiasm for what was possible and wildly brilliant intellect were only outshone by his kindness. Above all things he cherished the time spent with his family. They enjoyed traveling together and experiencing different places including LA, Florida, Bahamas, Guatemala, Italy, Switzerland and Boyne Mountain, where he loved to snowboard with Marek and Bram. Jeff loved quality time with his sons, whether they were fixing bicycles or building things together. He was adored by his nieces and nephews, and had a very close relationship with his father-in-law, with whom he spent countless hours fishing, building boats, and constructing tree houses. Jeff and his wife Deidre shared a passion for design and beauty; Jeff meticulously created every inch of their exquisite home that showcased Deidre and Jeff’s unmatched skill and creativity. From designing their own home, as well as homes for family members and clients, to traveling the world to appreciate architecture and art, their love took physical form in the designs around them. Jeff will be sorely missed by all who loved him.
Family will greet friends and relatives from 4-7pm on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Road SE., Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Memorial services will be held at 11am on Friday, October 4, 2024, at Cascade Fellowship Christian Reformed Church, 6655 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, with visitation one hour prior. Rev. Chris DeBlaay officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to the scholarship fund for The Branch Church Arts Camp, “Create”, 973 28th Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49508.
2 Responses
Dear Dedrie and family: I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember Jeff’s humility and kindness so well.
Dan and Ruth, I just learned of Jeff’s passing and want to express my condolences to you and your family. I can’t imagine what you are experiencing. I will certainly keep you both in my prayers.