Hendrick (Hank) C. Kapteyn, age 82, of Caledonia, Michigan, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, September 11, 2025.

Dad was born in the Netherlands to William and Hilda Kapteyn and came to the United States with his family shortly after World War II. They settled in Byron Center, and he graduated from South Christian High School in 1961.

Dad’s love of sports is what first brought him to the love of his life, our mom, Betty. They shared nearly 61 years of marriage, building a full life together. He often told us how God’s hand brought them together, and he never stopped being grateful for that gift.

He was a natural athlete and enjoyed hockey, basketball, softball, and waterskiing, just to name a few.   More than anything, Dad loved to build. Being a custom home builder wasn’t just his career—it was who he was. He built the home we grew up in and later built homes for each of us kids. There was nothing he couldn’t figure out, and he always had a creative solution. His eye for detail and his joy in the work taught us the value of hard work, creativity, and taking pride in what you do.

Music was another passion. He sang tenor in the King’s Choraliers and later began the Caledonia Concert Series, bringing Southern Gospel music to our community. He also hosted Southern Gospel Saturday Night on the radio, sharing both music and his heart for the Lord. Through his voice, his faith, and his generosity, he touched countless lives.

Some of our best memories were made at Gun Lake, where Dad loved his boats, seadoos, and time on the water. Each March, he looked forward to traveling to Nassau, Bahamas. Fondly known at the Straw Market as “the $5 man,” he built lasting friendships there and was even honored to become a godfather to one of their children. His generosity extended far beyond—he sponsored children through Love A Child, kept their pictures close on his desk, and even traveled to Haiti to meet one in person.

Dad will be deeply missed by our mom, Betty, who faithfully loved and cared for him every day of their marriage. Carrying on his legacy are his children Anita (Richard) DeHaan, Joel (Misty) Kapteyn, and Mary (Steven) Mete along with 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren and his sisters Kaye Kroll and Emmy Stickland. In Heaven, he is reunited with his parents; his siblings Peter, Jacob, Adriaan, Jack, Klaas, and Irene; and holding his beloved granddaughter Ali Jo Barron and grandson Drew Barron once again.

To us, Dad will always be remembered for his faith, his steady guidance, his humor, and the deep love he poured into his family. He worked hard, sang with joy, and gave with an open heart. We are forever grateful for the memories, lessons, and laughter he gave us, and his legacy will live on in all who love him.

Visitation for Hank will be held on Friday, September 19, from 5 to 8 PM and Saturday, September 20, from 10 to 11 AM, at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th Street SE, Grand Rapids, where the funeral service will begin at 11 AM Saturday. Rev. Merle Buwalda will be officiating. Interment in Dutton Cemetery.