IN LOVING MEMORY OF

John Henry

John Henry Stegink Profile Photo

Stegink

Mar 15, 1934 — May 7, 2026

Obituary

John Henry Stegink joined his Lord in eternal glory on May 7, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the age of 92. John was born on March 15, 1934, and lived a life marked by faith and thoughtful devotion to his Lord and to his family. He graduated from Holland Christian High School and from Calvin College. He continued his education with graduate work at Wayne State University and Western Michigan University. His education prepared him for a career in teaching, a calling that allowed him to influence young people with patience, encouragement, and dedication.

John served with the United States Navy on the USS Hancock aircraft carrier. He began his teaching career at Dutton Christian School and later taught at Kent Occupational High School. He continued to serve in practical ways by working for the Wyoming Public Schools as a bus driver and then, in retirement, the physical plant of Calvin College where he mowed lawns and remained connected to a community he valued. His work ethic and willingness to serve were evident throughout his life, whether in the classroom, on campus, or at home.

John was also active in the church and served faithfully in leadership roles. He served as a church school teacher, cadet leader, deacon and elder.

Family was central to John's life, and he cherished the relationships that surrounded him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Egbert and Julia Stegink, brothers Martin (Lois) and Larry Stegink, daugher-in-law AnnaLisa Stegink, and sisters Grethel Genzink (Don), Julia Berkompas (Ed). He was also preceded in death by his brothers-in-law Ted Gabrielse and Dennis Gabrielse, sister-in-law June Tilma (Jack), Alice Genzink.

He is survived by his wife, Eunice, who shared in his life and love for 67 years of faithful companionship, and by his three sons, Timothy (Connie), James (Mary), and Joel Stegink. He is survived by his sisters Patricia Buursma, Eileen Dolbee (James), as well as his sisters-in-law Shirley Gabrielse, Janice Scheffler, and Harlean Stegink. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews who were blessed by his presence and example.

John was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren, Jason (Chris), Michael (Amanda), Ryan (Kristina), Annie, Robyn, Mandie (John) and Mackenzie. He also delighted in his ten great-grandchildren, Elliot, Nolan, Reese, triplets Elsie, Clara and Davis; Theodore, Lincoln, Tessa, and Simon. His family brought him great joy, and he treasured the time he spent with them. His legacy will continue through the generations who knew his love, his guidance, and his faith.

John will be remembered as a faith-filled and thoughtful man whose life was defined by service, devotion, and care for others. He leaves behind a lasting example of Christian faith lived out in everyday kindness, steadfast work, and loving family relationships. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will remain a source of comfort and gratitude to all who knew and loved him.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, May 11, from 5 to 7 pm at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton Street SE. A memorial service will take place on Tuesday, May 12, at 2 pm, also at Zaagman Memorial Chapel. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend, and the link to the webcast will be available on the Zaagman obituary page.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Dr. SW. Byron Center, MI 49315.

To send flowers with our preferred florist or plant a memorial tree, please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

Visitation

May
11

Monday

5:00 - 7:00 pm

Service

May
12

Tuesday

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