David Bouwkamp

David Bouwkamp, age 71, passed away Monday, March 23, 2026, at Centrica Rose Arbor Place in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He was born November 1, 1954, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Fred and Alberta (Windemuller) Bouwkamp. Dave earned his associates degree and worked at D&W Food Centers for 30 years in a variety of retail leadership positions. 

On January 20th, 1989, he married Charlotte Nota in Rockford, Michigan. Dave was devoted to his volunteer service with the Grand Rapid Home for Veterans. He spent his last year in Richland, Michigan, a thirty-second drive from his son and his family. He and his wife considered this move such an incredible blessing. 

Survivors include his three children, Matthew (Rachel) Bouwkamp, Kathleen (Chris) Pitts, and Melissa (Chris) Starkey, and his six grandchildren: Benjamin, Jacob, Daniel, Joey, Hazel and Aidan and his siblings, Judy Triezenberg and Fred (JoAnn) Bouwkamp. Dave was preceded in death by his parents and by his cherished wife, just five weeks before. 

Dave was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was a man of strong character and work ethic who embodied the kind of person he wanted his children to be like. He was a man you would want advice from, which came along with a quick joke and brazen smile. Dave was a loving grandfather, who always had a secret stash of snacks hidden at his house that his grandchildren knew how to find. His strongest love was for his wife, Char, who he described as the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. He vowed he would be with her soon after her passing, and he fulfilled that promise. 

At Dave's request, cremation has taken place and a private family celebration will be held in the summer months. Please omit flowers.  In lieu of flowers memorials directed to the Folds of Honor Foundation, would be appreciated.