John D. Sytsma

John David Sytsma, age 79, of DeMotte, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 13, 2024. Born on July 10, 1945, in Hammond, Indiana, John was the beloved son of John Sr. and Jeannette (Ooms) Sytsma. He graduated from DeMotte High School in the Class of 1964 and went on to serve his country with pride in the Army National Guard. On August 29, 1969, John married the love of his life, Karen Hanewich, with whom he shared 55 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. John was a dedicated bricklayer, working alongside unions Local 6 and Local 4, where his craftsmanship and hard work were highly respected. A man of deep faith, John was a devoted member of the First Christian Reformed Church. An active member in the DeMotte American Legion Post #440. He had a passion for fishing, especially during his trips to Canada, and loved watching sports, with Purdue basketball holding a special place in his heart. Above all, John treasured time spent with family and friends, whether over a warm cup of coffee or a cold beer, where his good-natured conversation and sense of humor always made for unforgettable moments. John is survived by his loving wife, Karen; their children, John (Lauren) Sytsma Jr., Staci (Chris) Zohlen, and Scott Allyn Sytsma; and seven grandchildren, Ella, Aidric, Juliet, Cormac, Declan, Dylan, and Larkin. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Marcia Sytsma. John was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Donald and David Sytsma. Family and friends are invited to celebrate John's life on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 2:00 to 7:00 PM at Jackson Funeral Service DeMotte. A funeral service will follow on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 10:00 AM at First Christian Reformed Church, officiated by Pastor Bill Sytsma, with interment at Holland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to DeMotte Christian School, a cause close to John’s heart. John’s legacy of kindness, humor, generosity, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

John D. Sytsma

July 10, 1945 - September 13, 2024