Grand Rapids, MI – The Grand Rapids community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 33-year-old Christa Leigh Veldkamp, who passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, following a brief but difficult struggle with mental health challenges. Her passing, suspected to be by suicide, has left her family, friends, colleagues, and the many children she supported in deep grief.
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Who Was Christa Leigh Veldkamp?
Christa is survived by her loving parents, Rick and Heather Veldkamp; siblings Kelly and Mark Schraw and Eric Veldkamp; and nephews Rowan, Ezra, and Cole Schraw. She also leaves behind a large extended family, including members of the Menega, Veldkamp, and Gun Lake families, as well as many close friends who cherished her presence.
She is preceded in death by her grandmother, Jane Menega; grandparents Harry and Vivian Veldkamp; and cousin Amy DeKock.
Christa was known for her vibrant personality and zest for life. She loved outdoor adventures, including water skiing, snow skiing, hiking, golfing, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Time with her family—especially her beloved nephews—was one of her greatest joys. Her empathy, kindness, and generosity touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her Career and Lasting Legacy
Christa dedicated her professional career to helping others as a Speech and Language Pathologist at a Physical Rehabilitation Center, where she primarily worked with children. Her compassion, patience, and genuine care left a powerful impact on her students, patients, and colleagues.
Through her work, Christa changed countless lives, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, skill, and heartfelt service in the field of speech and language therapy.
Community and Social Reactions
The loss of Christa has deeply affected the Grand Rapids community and those in her professional field. Family and friends continue to share heartfelt memories of her adventurous spirit, warm personality, and unwavering support for those around her.
Tributes across social media highlight her positivity, her love for life, and the inspiration she brought to everyone she encountered.
Memorial and Celebration of Life Services
A Celebration of Life for Christa Leigh Veldkamp will be held on Thursday, November 20 at 11 a.m. at Hillside Community Church in Grand Rapids, with Rev. Ron Cool officiating.
Friends and family may visit on Wednesday, November 19, from 5–8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home in Kentwood.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to “Win at Home,” an organization supporting mental health and family wellness.
Christa’s family shared an encouraging message for anyone struggling with mental health to seek professional support and lean on loved ones. They added, “Although we may not understand the full extent of Christa’s struggle, we choose to cling to the hope provided to us in Jesus Christ and the certainty that we will see her again in heaven.”
Conclusion
The passing of Christa Leigh Veldkamp is a profound loss to her family, friends, and the many lives she touched through her work and compassion. Her memory will be cherished forever, and her legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to inspire others. This story may be updated as more information becomes available.