Honoring Tradition.
Celebrating Life.
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Carlos Kammeraad

August 21, 2004 - January 5, 2023
Grand Rapids, MI

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Visitation

Tuesday, January 10, 2023
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM EST
Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes
Van Strien Creston Chapel
1833 Plainfield Ave., N.E
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
(616) 361-2613
Driving Directions

Visitation

Tuesday, January 10, 2023
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM EST
Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes
Van Strien Creston Chapel
1833 Plainfield Ave., N.E
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
(616) 361-2613
Driving Directions

Visitation

Wednesday, January 11, 2023
10:00 AM EST
Madison Church; Square Campus
1441 Madison Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Web Site

Service

Wednesday, January 11, 2023
11:00 AM EST
Madison Church; Square Campus
1441 Madison Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Web Site

Contributions


At the family's request memorial contributions are to be made to those listed below. Please forward payment directly to the memorial of your choice.

Arbor Circle
1115 Ball Ave NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Web Site

Alano Club of Kent County
1020 College Ave NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Web Site

Life Story / Obituary


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Print

Curious, creative, and courageous, Carlos Alberto John Kammeraad was an old soul with a clear sense of justice and a heart that felt more deeply than most. Carlos was intelligent beyond his years and never shied from a challenge. Regardless of the hardships he faced, he chose to be loving, compassionate, and kind. He willingly celebrated life's joys and sadnesses with grace and gratitude, often reflecting on how his life impacted others. Bright and beautiful, Carlos' days were far too few, and each moment we were blessed to share with him a treasure we will forever hold dear.

2004 was a year of incredible change and hope for a bright future. Kevin and Stephanie Kammeraad made their dream of international adoption a reality. Born on August 21, 2004, in Mazatenango, Guatemala, Carlos was adopted by the Kammeraads on July 18, 2005. When they adopted his younger sister Maria from Colombia five years later, the family was complete.

As a boy, Carlos loved building things and exploring the outdoors. Whether playing with Legos and Spiderman or exploring creeks and discovering little creatures, Carlos loved observing the world and creating new things. He also loved all animals. Over the years, he had pet snakes, geckos, turtles, rats, three cats, and a dog; all received his utmost care and love. He also loved mountain biking, especially riding the local trails and working on his bikes. Despite the tumbles he took, he always got back up and continued on the trail ahead.

A creative soul, Carlos keenly perceived the world with all his senses. His gift for the visual arts led to honing his drawing, meticulously creating detailed characters with soulful eyes and compelling faces. He also loved writing music. His original lyrics, beats, and melodies powerfully conveyed his unique perspectives and begged listeners to tune in with greater care. Much like his art and music, Carlos' sharp, sophisticated wit demanded careful listening and often required others to engage in a bit of effort to truly "get it." When they did "get it," they couldn't help but be moved.

Carlos was a deep thinker who mastered the art of adult conversation at an early age. His intellect, reflections, and observations captivated others and frequently inspired further inquiry for all. Homeschooling offered him the opportunity to enjoy many family field trips, including travels around the country. Two special family work trips to Maui, Hawaii, were rich in exploration and memories as well.

Carlos approached all aspects of life with great fervor and passion, pouring his heart and soul into all his endeavors. Even in the face of depression and addiction, he often chose to be open and honest. As he navigated cunning, baffling, and powerful diseases, he chose over and over again to share with others who struggled too. And in his willingness to vulnerably share painful experiences, he provided a safe and shame-free space for others to honestly share their brokenness too. Carlos' open heart provided much-needed comfort for many, building a beautiful legacy on the cornerstones of honesty, generosity, compassion, and acceptance.

Sadly, after many years of courageously battling addiction and depression, Carlos Alberto John Kammeraad passed away from an accidental drug overdose on January 5, 2023. As our hearts ache in the loss of our cherished son, brother, nephew, grandson, cousin, and friend, may we find comfort in knowing he is at peace and in the arms of God. May we also find comfort in the honor of carrying his powerful legacy forward. Whenever we choose faith over fear, passionately embrace the moment, giving ourselves in service of others, and live wholeheartedly, we celebrate Carlos' life. In doing so, we keep his spirit burning brightly and inspiring others as he so inspired each of us.

Carlos’ story here on earth has been written. It doesn’t have the ending we would have chosen, but we were not in charge of that. We are honored, grateful, and privileged to have had the opportunity to be Carlos’ family.

Carlos is survived by his parents, Kevin and Stephanie Kammeraad; sister, Maria Kammeraad; grandparents, Allen Wenner, Steve and Linda Kammeraad; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Catherine Wenner; aunt, Kristi Rogalske; and uncle, Eric Fox. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at 11 AM at Madison Church; Square Campus, 1441 Madison Ave SE. Friends may visit with the family Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield Ave NE, and beginning at 10 AM at church. Memorials may be made to Arbor Circle or the Alano Club of Kent County. To read more of Carlos' life story, leave a memory or condolence please visit www.heritagelifestory.com.

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