Jay E. Van Houten

Jay Edward Van Houten of Grand Rapids, passed away on Good Friday April 14, 2017 at the age of 90.  He was born June 24, 1926 in McBain, MI to the late John and Reka Van Houten.  Jay will be lovingly remembered by his children Lavina (Bruce) Wynalda, Bruce (Cristina Fuster) Van Houten, Maxie (Michael J.) Van Houten-Bazuin; grandchildren Matthew (Eve) Wynalda, Jeffrey Wynalda, Edward Van Houten, Alexander Van Houten, Cassie (Ross) Ryzenga, Carly Vander Henst; great-grandchildren Eden and Elise Wynalda; former wife Rosemary Van Houten and sisters-in-law Carol and Freda Van Houten.  Jay graduated from Northern Michigan Christian High School and attended Calvin College and the University of Michigan.  He served in the US Marines during World War II as a Private First Class.  He developed a hard work ethic growing up on the family farm in McBain and instilled this in his children and grandchildren. For over 50 years Jay owned and operated the Highland Chrysler Jeep Dealership.  At one time Jay also owned and operated Highland Jeep Eagle on Plainfield Ave. in Grand Rapids and Maple Hill Chrysler Plymouth Volvo Hyundai Porsche in Kalamazoo.  For his hard work, dedication and commitment to his company, Jay received numerous awards, including the Award of Excellence from Chrysler Corporation for sales and service and was also recognized as one of the top 25 dealers in the nation for many years.  In his lifetime he was also active on the Christian School Board, Tall Turf Camp Board and helped establish scholarships for students at GRCC.  He was a member of LaGrave Ave. Christian Reformed Church and also Plymouth Heights Christian Reformed Church for many years.  Jay was a generous man not only with his family but also to others in need.  Jay enjoyed playing golf and cards at Cascade Hills Country Club where he was a member for over 30 years.  He will be deeply missed.  The funeral service will be held 3pm Tuesday April 18th at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.  The family will greet relatives and friends Monday, April 17th from 6-8pm and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.  Education was very important to him. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jay E. Van Houten Scholarship Fund through the GRCC Foundation.    

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