Steven Douglas Venhuizen

On Monday, November 15, 2021, Steven Douglas Venhuizen passed into his eternal peace in Virginia where he was currently living with his daughter.

Steve was born October 8, 1947 to Evelyn & Doug Venhuizen in Grand Rapids, MI. He attended the Godwin Heights Schools and graduated in 1966.

He was conscripted into the US Army in the fall of 1966 serving during the Vietnam Conflict until being honorably discharged in 1968. Later Steve further served his country by enlisting for several years in the US Navy Reserves.

December 6, 1969 Steve married Mildred Joy Gronewold of Freeport, MI. They settled in Hastings, MI where together they raised their two children. He was able to share his love and devotion with Millie for over 50 years.

Steve worked at Viking Corporation in Hastings for many years then at DENSO Manufacturing in Battle Creek until his retirement.

Steve was happiest when he was in the out of doors. He particularly loved fishing, camping, and hiking especially when he could share in it with his children, grandchildren, and faithful dog Pete. One of the dearest places for him was along the shores of Missaukee Lake in Lake City where he got to spend several years in his retirement.

Steve will be deeply missed by his daughter, Kara (Derek) Taylor of Ruther Glen, VA and Aaron (Callie) Venhuizen of Hastings, MI. As well as by stepdaughters Suzanne (Jack) Sharpe and Jennifer (Jerry) Bihlmeyer; 7 grandchildren Ashleigh, Collin, Aaron, Addison, Jay, Alicia, and Savanna; and 2 great-grandchildren CJ & Elijah; and finally, by his siblings Ron (Sharon), Dave (Judy), Phil (Anne) and Linda (Ron).

Steve was preceded in death by his wife Millie; his parents; and brother Curt Venhuizen.

A private ceremony will be held in his honor upon his interment at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek at a later date.

With respect to Steve’s love of the outdoors the family requests any Memorial contributions be made to: https://www.nationalparks.org/support