Jay Roede

Jay Edwin Roede, age 93, passed away on April 27, 2026. He was born on August 9, 1932, to Steve and Nellie Roede. Jay was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Verle Ann; his son Russell; his sisters Myrtle Nylaan and Donna Vlietstra; his brother Dale Roede; and his parents.

Jay lived a long and steady life, marked by hard work, quiet determination, and a practical outlook that shaped everything he did. A charter member of Fair Haven Church, he was part of its earliest days and stayed connected to that community throughout his life. Jay spent many years caring for his wife, Verle, with a kind of steady devotion that said more about him than any words could.

Jay worked as a plasterman for nearly forty years. He learned the trade young, ran his own business, and worked for several companies. He wasn’t one to brag, but he took real pride in doing things the right way, and plenty of walls and ceilings around West Michigan still show his handiwork.

Some of Jay’s favorite memories were made during summers at his cottage on Big Star Lake. He loved being there with family and friends—relaxing by the water, fishing, sharing meals, and enjoying the simple things. He also had a passion for bowling and never passed up a chance to travel with his siblings to watch Sprint car races around the country. Those trips were filled with stories, laughter, and the kind of fun he carried with him throughout his life. Jay also looked forward to serving as the beverage cart driver for many years at the benefit golf outing supporting the Rick Herrema Foundation.

He is survived by his children Doug and Lenore Roede, Pam and Kelly Snyder, and Dennis and Rebecca Roede; as well as his grandchildren Jennifer (Dan) Lewkowski, Jeff (Jennifer) Roede, Nathan (Taylor) Roede, Ryan (Heather) Roede, Kyle (Dayna) Roede, Tyler Roede, Kevin (Jackie) Snyder, Eric (Sarah) Snyder, Brett Snyder, and Racine Roede. Jay also leaves behind 20 great‑grandchildren, along with his brother‑in‑law Harold Nylaan and sister‑in‑law Karen Roede.

The family would like to thank the staff at American House in Jenison and Faith Hospice for their care and kindness during Jay’s final days.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 2, at 11:30 a.m. at Fair Haven Ministries, 2900 Baldwin Dr., Hudsonville, MI. Relatives and friends may visit with Jay’s family at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will take place at Georgetown Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to Faith Hospice or the RHF Foundation.