Jay N. Venema, age 86, of Grand Rapids, MI met Jesus after a long struggle with cancer and is now in his heavenly home on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.  Jay loved volunteering at a number of charitable organizations, mentoring and helping people in need.  He was the owner and operator of Venema Floor Covering.  He proudly served in the U.S. Army National Guard.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Clare and Hermina Venema; brother, Clare; sister, Joan Duininck.  Jay will be dearly missed and remembered by his wife of 65 years, Janet; children, Norm Venema, Jon (Kim) Venema, Nancy Venema; grandchildren, Stephanie (Jimmy), Sarah (Trevor), Samantha (Steve), Travis (Hannah), Haley, Jeremy (Kelly), Aaron (Becky), Tanneke (Keith), Christine (Josh), Molly (Christopher); great grandchildren, Malcolm, Keirston (Avery), Ashley, Kamie, Madison, MacKenzi, Trinity, Nevaeh, Mason, Kenzi, J.J., Nori, Kalee, Logan, Stephen, Reese; brother, John (Patsy) Venema; many nieces and nephews.  The family will greet visitors on Friday, September 27, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8PM, at Stroo Funeral Home.  A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, September 28, at 11AM at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St. SE, Grand Rapids, 49508.  Pastor Wayne Ondersma will officiate.  Interment in Blain Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Pier Church Mission Fund, 4669 S. Division, Wyoming, MI 49548.