Christa Veldkamp, a 33-year-old speech and language pathologist deeply loved in Caledonia, Michigan, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025. Her sudden loss has shaken her family, friends, and the many lives she touched through her gentle, compassionate spirit.
Born April 5, 1992, Christa devoted her short but meaningful life to helping others find their voices—both literally and metaphorically. In her work, she wasn’t just a clinician; she was a calm presence, a patient teacher, and a trusted friend. Her empathy made her more than a speech therapist—it made her a lifeline for children learning to communicate and for families navigating difficult moments. Those who knew her say she made everyone feel seen and understood, qualities that she carried into every relationship she formed.
Christa’s passing leaves a profound void. She is survived by her loving parents, Rick and Heather Veldkamp; her siblings, Kelly Schra, Marc Schra, and Eric Veldkamp; and her three nephews Rowan, Ezra, and Cole Schra—who were constant sources of joy in her life. Beyond her immediate family, she leaves behind a network of extended loved ones across the Mennega, Veldkamp, and Gun Lake families, as well as countless close friends who will forever cherish her warmth and generosity.
She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Joan Mennega; her grandparents, Harry and Vivian Veldkamp; and her cousin, Amy DeKock. While it’s a comfort to know she’s reunited with them, the ache of her absence is deeply felt by everyone she left behind.
To honor her memory, a Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, November 20 at Hillside Community Church (1440 68th Street SE, Grand Rapids). Rev. Ron Kool will lead the service. The evening before, on Wednesday from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, there will be a visitation at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, located at 4646 Kalamazoo Ave SE in Kentwood. These gatherings offer a chance for friends, family, and all who were touched by Christa to come together, share stories, and find solace in community.
Christa’s legacy is one of service, kindness, and devotion. She lived with an open heart, giving fully of herself to others. Though she is no longer here, her impact lives on—in the voices she helped shape, the confidence she instilled, and the countless people who carry pieces of her gentle strength with them.
In her honor, the family has suggested memorial gifts be made to Winning at Home, an organization that supported her passions.
