It is with great sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Christa Leigh Veldkamp, age 33, who departed on Friday, November 14, 2025, following a brief and challenging battle with mental health issues. Her death, which is believed to be a suicide, has caused deep mourning among her family, friends, coworkers, and the numerous children whose lives she impacted through her professional endeavors.
Christa is survived by her parents, Rick and Heather Veldkamp, her siblings Kelly and Marc Schra, and Eric Veldkamp, in addition to her nephews Rowan, Ezra, and Cole Schra. She is fondly remembered by many extended family members, including those from the Mennega, Veldkamp, and Gun Lake families, along with a wide network of close friends.
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She was preceded in death by her cherished grandmother, Joan Mennega, as well as her grandparents Harry and Vivian Veldkamp, and her cousin Amy DeKock.
Recognized for her exuberant spirit and vibrant nature, Christa brought immense joy to those around her. Her adventurous disposition led her to partake in various outdoor activities such as water skiing, snow skiing, hiking, golfing, mountain biking, and rock climbing. She was a passionate reader who valued quality time with her nephews and family, consistently surrounding herself with cherished individuals. Christa’s innate ability to empathize made her a source of kindness, and she approached all her relationships with heartfelt compassion.
In her professional life, Christa was a committed Speech and Language Pathologist at The Center for Physical Rehabilitation, primarily working with children. Her patients, students, and colleagues respected her for her patience, expertise, and heartfelt dedication. The contributions she made to her profession were greatly valued, and the influence she had on the lives she touched will be remembered.
Christa’s family expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the 33 years they were fortunate to share with her. In memory of her life, they encourage anyone facing mental health challenges to seek assistance, rely on family support, and connect with professionals for help. They maintain hope and trust that Christa is now at peace, looking forward to being reunited in heaven.
“Although we may not comprehend the full extent of Christa’s struggles, we have chosen to cling to the hope we find in Jesus Christ and the promise that we will reunite with her in heaven,” her family conveyed.
A Celebration of Life will take place at 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 20, at Hillside Community Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, presided over by Rev. Ron Kool. Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, November 19, from 5–8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home located in Kentwood.
In place of flowers, the family has requested that memorial donations be directed to Winning at Home, an organization focused on 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.”
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