Curtis “Curt” Beerens Obituary May 17, 2026 | Grand Rapids, MI
Curtis “Curt” Beerens, 78, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Curtis “Curt” Beerens, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and respected member of the Grand Rapids community, entered into eternal rest on May 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Known for his strong work ethic, friendly demeanor, quick sense of humor, and steadfast integrity, Curt lived a life defined by hard work, faith, and deep commitment to family and friends. He will be remembered as a man who showed up, worked hard, and loved generously.
A Life Well Lived
Curtis James Beerens was born on September 28, 1947, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Raised in a hardworking Dutch-American family, he learned early the values of honesty, perseverance, and caring for others. After graduating from Grand Rapids Christian High School in 1965, Curt proudly served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968. His military service shaped his character and instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty and patriotism.
Following his honorable discharge, Curt built a successful career in the manufacturing industry. For more than 40 years, he worked with dedication at several prominent West Michigan companies, advancing to the role of plant supervisor. Colleagues remembered him as a fair, reliable leader who mentored younger workers and always emphasized quality, safety, and teamwork. He retired in 2012 but remained active in local veterans’ groups and enjoyed helping friends and neighbors with home projects.
Curt was a longtime faithful member of Resurrection Parish in Grand Rapids, where he served as an usher and volunteered with the men’s ministry. He loved fishing on the Grand River, coaching his children’s sports teams, restoring classic cars in his garage, and cheering for the Michigan Wolverines and Detroit Tigers. Family camping trips, weekend barbecues, and holiday gatherings were among the highlights of his life. He took great pride in teaching his children and grandchildren practical skills and the importance of faith and family.
Surviving Family Members
Curt is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mary Ellen (Thompson) Beerens of Grand Rapids; his children: son Michael (Sarah) Beerens of Holland, Michigan, and daughter Jennifer (Mark) Thompson of Kalamazoo, Michigan; his cherished grandchildren: Tyler, Madison, and Ethan Beerens, and Abigail and Jackson Thompson; and many dear siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Evelyn Beerens, and his brother, Richard Beerens.
Funeral Details and Arrangements
A Celebration of Life service for Curtis “Curt” Beerens will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Resurrection Parish in Grand Rapids, with Father Michael Reynolds officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday, May 29, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Heritage Funeral Home.
Interment with military honors will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. Pallbearers will include his son, son-in-law, and grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Resurrection Parish or to the Wounded Warrior Project in Curt’s honor.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Curtis “Curt” Beerens was a man of quiet strength and unwavering love. He never sought recognition or praise, yet his steady presence was the foundation his family relied upon. As a husband, he was loyal and supportive. As a father and grandfather, he was patient, encouraging, and always ready with a story from his Army days or a helpful hand in the garage. He taught those around him the value of hard work, keeping your word, and treating people with respect.
Whether fishing early in the morning, coaching Little League, or simply sitting on the porch sharing laughs with family, Curt showed what it means to live with purpose and presence. He cherished his marriage to Mary Ellen, his Catholic faith, and the simple joys of life in West Michigan — beautiful lake days, family dinners, and time spent with the people he loved most.
Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort knowing Curt has gone home to his Heavenly Father, reunited with loved ones who went before him. His legacy of faith, family, and integrity will continue to guide and inspire his loved ones for generations to come.
Condolences and Guestbook
The Beerens family warmly invites relatives, friends, colleagues, and community members to share memories, stories, and words of comfort in the guestbook below. These tributes will provide great strength and encouragement during this time of loss.
