Chris Huizenga, age 31, passed away on Sunday, July 30, 2023 at home surrounded by family.
Chris was born in Muskegon on June 25, 1992 to Steve and Paula (Vanderstelt) Huizenga and raised in Zeeland, Michigan. Chris graduated from Zeeland East High School in 2010 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering from Ferris State University. He was employed by kusoftware, a Georgia-based company.
Chris was an avid gamer and enjoyed playing Final Fantasy XIV and sharing his love of gaming with others. He was known as a “lightbringer,” and always shared his kind spirit with others. Chris was selfless and had a way of bringing everyone together. One of his friends said, “There are so many ways to describe Chris, and to say he was kind is an understatement. He was the embodiment of love and everyone who knew him was better because of it.” He was a devoted son, brother, uncle, and friend.
Chris’ faith was tested by his hard and painful journey with cancer, but he never complained. He always hung on to his faith that God would bring him through it by either healing him now or bringing him safely to Heaven for his ultimate healing. He told his dad, “If I pass, please don’t be angry with God. He put me on this path for a reason. I don’t like it or understand it, but please don’t be mad at Him”. We all rest in the fact, and the peace, that he is now completely healed.
Chris is survived by his parents Steven and Paula Huizenga; sister Wendy (Kyle) Haack of Wheaton, IL; brother Steve (Carolyn) Huizenga of East Lansing; and brother Bill (Ashley) Huizenga of Grand Rapids. He is also survived by nieces and nephews Desirae, Sam, and Ben Haack; and Owen and Emmy Huizenga. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends remain, as well as his beloved dog, Nellie. Chris’ last remaining grandparent, grandma Paula Vanderstelt, passed away just 6 hours after Chris. We know that Chris was there with open arms welcoming her into Heaven.
A visitation for Chris will be held on Wednesday, August 2 from 6:30-8:30 PM at Lakeshore Memorial Services – 11939 James St. Holland, MI 49424. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, August 3 at First Reformed Church Zeeland – 125 E. Lincoln Ave. Zeeland, MI 49464. A visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Private burial will take place at Zeeland Cemetery (Felch Street).
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to First Reformed Church Zeeland or Harbor Humane Society.
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