Gerald "Jerry" Miedema

With a journey that spanned times of war and peace, times of plenty and want, Gerald Miedema always held fast to what mattered most through it all. A devoted family man, there was nothing that meant more to him than his loved ones. Jerry was a pillar of his community, and he truly lived to serve. He never took a moment for granted, and his solid work ethic carried him well throughout his entire life, allowing him to provide for all who depended on him. Though he will be greatly missed, Jerry leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will forever remember.

The early 1950s are remembered as some of the most influential years for the United States. The economy was thriving following the end of WWII just a short time before, and the historical baby boom was underway. During these exciting years, Gerald and Edith Miedema of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their second child. It was on February 7 of 1950 that they were happy to announce that their son, Gerald James, had made his entrance into the world.

Growing up, Jerry was a typical boy of his generation in many ways. He was raised in the family home on Courtney NW alongside his three siblings, John, Sue, and Mark. Jerry’s father worked as a milkman, and his mother was a registered nurse. From a young age, Jerry was very organized and followed the rules carefully. He attended local schools, including West Side Christian School, where he was the captain of the safety team that walked kids across streets. During middle school, Jerry would ride his bike to pick fruits and vegetables at the Versluis farm. He attended Grand Rapids Christian High School and ran cross country and track. Jerry also worked as a cook at Bylsma Pancake House. He graduated from Grand Rapids Christian in 1968, eager to see what the future held.

After high school, Jerry continued in his education at Grand Rapids Junior College, studying criminal justice. He then went on to attend Michigan State University and earned his BA in 1972. In July of that year, Jerry began working for the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, but he was soon drafted into the United States Army. He served as an MP from 1972 to 1974, giving his all in service to his country. When he returned home, Jerry worked hard to earn his master’s degree from Western Michigan University.

Jerry first met the young woman who would forever hold the key to his heart while working at Bylsma Pancake House. Her name was Sandy, and she was a waitress in the restaurant. Their paths drifted apart for a time while Jerry was in the service, but one fateful day, they reconnected. Jerry was walking his dog in the neighborhood, and he spotted Sandy walking a child home from Sunday school. He later asked her out to see a movie, and the rest was history. Jerry and Sandy were engaged in 1975, and they were united in marriage at West Leonard Christian Reformed Church on March 4, 1977. The newlyweds enjoyed a honeymoon in Washington, D.C., then settled down in their first home in Grandville, Michigan.

Over the next several years, Jerry was overjoyed to become a father to his three beloved children, Eric, Adam, and Hillary. He thrived in his role as a father, and he always did his best to be present in their lives. Jerry never missed an event, program, or special occasion. He made a tradition of making blueberry pancakes every Saturday morning. Jerry could often be found behind the camera, documenting every notable moment. The family enjoyed a memorable vacation to Disney. Whenever they were on trips, Jerry made sure to wear neon colors so that his kids would be able to find him. Later in life, he was thrilled to watch his family grow to include several grandchildren. Jerry adored his grandkids, and he always considered himself blessed beyond measure to be surrounded by so many loved ones.

Jerry’s family was his first priority in life, but he was deeply devoted to his community as well. He started serving with the Kent County Sheriff Department in 1974. Jerry was first on road duty, then made detective in 1982. He became a sergeant in 1990 and finally became a lieutenant in 1997. Throughout his long and fulfilling career, Jerry looked for opportunities to serve his community well. He created the Victim Services Unit in order to better care for victims and their families, one part of which was handing out stuffed animals to children. Despite the seriousness of the job, Jerry embraced his work each and every day and always made it about serving the people. Outside of the department, he also found ways to serve in his church and in local schools. Jerry and his family were members of Ivanrest Christian Reformed Church for many years, and he and Sandy later joined Remembrance Church around 2000, making it their church home. His faith was the firm foundation of his life, and he leaned on it throughout all the difficulties that came his way.

Jerry had many hobbies that kept him busy in his free time. He liked riding his bike around town, and he enjoyed camping trips and weekend getaways with his family. Jerry was a voracious reader, and he kept a detailed log of every book he read. Though he didn’t listen to music much, he did love singing in the church choir, especially around Christmas. Jerry was known for his sweet tooth and his love for butter pecan ice cream. His favorite snack was popcorn. In his later years, Jerry liked having at least one Diet Coke every day, and he was always up for going to Mr. Burger for a meal. Even when his health struggles began to slow him down, he refused to be limited and continued to stay active.

When reflecting on the life of Gerald Miedema, it is easy to see both his unwavering strength and his unconditional love for his family. He was a shining example of compassion, and he faced every challenge with fierce determination. A dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, Jerry’s family was everything to him, and he made sure they knew just how much they were loved. His willingness to serve made him a blessing in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Jerry will be forever remembered and loved.

MIEDEMA – Mr. Gerald “Jerry” James Miedema age 75, of Grandville, passed away on May 7, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Edith Miedema; Inlaws, Abie and Mina Steensma; and sister-in-law, Lori Suh. Jerry is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sandy; children, Eric (Betsy) Miedema, Adam (Erica) Miedema and Hillary (Jason) Cash; grandchildren, Evan, Alaina, Karsten, Maximus, Mackenzie and Brinley. Also surviving are his siblings, John (Kathy) Miedema, Sue (Mike) Herder and Mark (Karen) Miedema; sisters-in-law, Pat Tamminga and Jane (Jim) Leonardo; brother-in-law, Doug (Shelly) Steensma; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Jerry worked for the Kent County Sheriff Department for 36 years. The funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at Remembrance Church, 4575 Remembrance Rd NW. The family will receive visitors from 3-5 and 6-8 PM on Tuesday at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW and on Wednesday at church for one hour prior to the service. Contributions in his memory may be made to Faith Hospice. Interment in Rosedale Memorial Park. Celebrate Jerry’s life by sharing your favorite photos or stories on his dedicated memory page at heritagelifestory.com