Mr. Gordon Ray Veldman, age 69, of Pentwater, passed away Sunday, June 25, 2017, at Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus in Grand Rapids. He was born November 28, 1947, in Grand Rapids to Raymond and Grace (Bolthouse) Veldman. He was employed at Xerox Corporation as a repair technician. He served in the US Army during the Vietnam War.

Gordon was a member of the Pentwater Yacht Club and was an avid sailor, having sailed to many parts of the world, including three months to Antarctica. He enjoyed bicycling and woodworking. Gordon was also a great chef and had canned and preserved many types of foods. He was an adventurer and had real zest for life. Anyone needing a helping hand, Gordon was sure to be there for his friends that he so very much cherished. In the month of June 2014, Gordon received a double lung transplant, which greatly extended his life.

Gordon is survived by his soulmate, Nancy Zielinski of Pentwater, MI; one sister, Margo (Steve) Fisher of Holland, MI and one brother, Tom (Cheryl) Veldman of Muskegon, MI;   two nieces, Sara and Missy; three nephews, Nick, Kevin, Kurt; transplant brother, Fred (Jean) Nelis of Holland, MI; and his cat, Ralphie. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The Celebration of Life for Gordon will be held at a later date to be announced.

The family requests that any memorials be directed to Michigan Gift of Life Foundation, 3861 Research Park Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108.