After losing his parents at a young age, Llews older sister Rochelle(husband Ed) stepped up to raise him and his siblings, a true act of love.
Llew was also fortunate to have many mentors who guided him along the way during his time at West Ottawa leaving a lasting impact and inspiring his lifelong devotion to the West Ottawa program. His involvement in athletics was a defining part of his youth, playing football where he proudly scored the first touchdown on the “new field” and competing on the track team setting records and receiving MVP honors in both sports. Llew was inducted into the West Ottawa Hall of Fame in 2010. These experiences instilled in him discipline, resilience, and deep sense of commitment that he carried with him throughout his life.
Llew proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, demonstrating courage and dedication that reflected his lifelong sense of duty. In recognition of that service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Aircraft Crewman Badge, Marksman Rifle, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and made Sergeant during his time served.
Following his military service, Llew continued to serve his community as a police officer. Earning the respect and trust of those around him he retired as Ottawa county‘s most decorated police officer. A testament that speaks volumes to his character, built upon a foundation of consistent discipline, devotion, and humility that he would carry throughout his life.
At heart, Llew was also a farmer. He lived his life on the very land where he was raised, working the same farm and home that shaped him into the man so many knew and respected.
Llew will be remembered as a loyal, humble, gracious, and fair man – someone who carried himself with integrity and earned the deep respect of all who knew him. It was the little things in life that made him the happiest.
Llew was survived by his son Andrew (wife Brandi) DeVries and preceded in death by his daughter Heather Potter.
Llew’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values he upheld, and the memories shared by family and friends.
Visitation will be held at Lakeshore Memorial services, 11939 James St., Holland, MI 49424, on Sunday April 26, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 with a celebration of life to follow at 3:00pm
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