It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Christa Leigh Veldkamp, 33, who left this world on Friday, November 14, 2025, after a brief and difficult struggle with mental health. Her death, believed to be by suicide, has left a profound loss among her family, friends, colleagues, and the many children whose lives she touched through her work.
Christa is survived by her parents, Rick and Heather Veldkamp, siblings Kelly and Marc Schra, and Eric Veldkamp, along with her nephews Rowan, Ezra, and Cole Schra. She is also remembered fondly by numerous extended family members, including the Mennega, Veldkamp, and Gun Lake families, as well as a wide circle of dear friends.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
She was preceded in death by her beloved grandmother, Joan Mennega, her grandparents Harry and Vivian Veldkamp, and her cousin Amy DeKock.
Known for her boundless energy and radiant personality, Christa was a force of joy in the lives of those around her. Her adventurous spirit led her to enjoy outdoor activities like water skiing, snow skiing, hiking, golfing, mountain biking, and rock climbing. She was an avid reader and cherished the time spent with her nephews and family, always surrounding herself with loved ones. Christa’s natural gift for empathy made her a beacon of kindness, and she approached every relationship with compassion.
Professionally, Christa was a dedicated Speech and Language Pathologist at The Center for Physical Rehabilitation, where she worked primarily with children. Her patients, students, and colleagues alike admired her for her patience, skill, and genuine care. Her contributions to the field were deeply appreciated, and her impact on the lives of those she worked with will not be forgotten.
Christa’s family expressed their deep gratitude for the 33 years they were blessed to share with her. In honor of her life, they have encouraged those struggling with mental health to seek help, lean on family, and reach out to professionals for support. They hold on to the hope and faith that Christa is now at peace, with the assurance of being reunited again in heaven.
“While we may not understand the depth of Christa’s struggle, we are choosing to hold on to the hope we have in Jesus Christ and the assurance that we will see her again in heaven,” her family shared.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 20, at Hillside Community Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with Rev. Ron Kool officiating. Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, November 19, from 5–8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home in Kentwood.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to Winning at Home, an organization dedicated to supporting mental health and family care.
“Romans 15:13 — May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”