James Melvin Holtrop

James Melvin Holtrop, age 82, of Conklin, Michigan, passed away Wednesday, September 16, 2026. He was born on February 10, 1944, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to Lyle and Marjorie (Langlois) Holtrop. He lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a warm, steady presence that will be remembered by all who knew him.

James was the beloved husband of Jan Holtrop for 62 years, and together they built a life centered on love, faithfulness, and family. He was a devoted father to James (Joy) Holtrop, Jeff (Midge) Holtrop, Laura (Arthur) LaFave, Patrick Holtrop, Dan Holtrop, and Nick (Meagan) Holtrop. He was also a proud grandfather to 16 grandchildren and a cherished great-grandfather to 24 great-grandchildren. His family was the heart of his life, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with them and with his many friends.

James spent much of his life farming, beginning his work in Nunica, Michigan, and later owning and operating the family farm in Conklin, Michigan. Hardworking and dependable, he took great pride in caring for the land and was deeply dedicated to the daily responsibilities of farm life. He especially enjoyed driving his John Deere Gator around the farm to check his crops, a familiar routine that captured the genuine enjoyment he found in the work.

Outside of farming, James enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and the beauty of the outdoors, especially deer and pheasant hunting. He treasured time spent up north at their beautiful 40-acre farm in the Bristol area, a property that once belonged to his wife’s grandparents and was later brought back into the family. It became a special gathering place where the family made countless memories riding ATVs, snowmobiling, and enjoying the outdoors together. Large family gatherings over the Fourth of July were among James’ favorites. Time spent there with family brought him peace and reflected so much of what he valued in life: honest work, quiet moments, the outdoors, and the company of those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his brother-in-law, Richard Partridge. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his sister, Dawn Holtrop, and his sister-in-law, Vivian Partridge, along with all who were blessed to know him.

Relatives and friends may meet the family Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Throop Funeral Home, 214 Church St., Coopersville, MI 49404, with the Rosary recited at 8:00 P.M. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, September 21, 2026, at McNitt cemetery, 21478 40th Ave. Conklin, MI 49403 with Fr. Andrew Ayers as celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or West Catholic High School, Attention: Development Office, 1801 Bristol Avenue Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.

Condolences for the family may be left in James’ guestbook at www.throopfh.com.

Throop Funeral Home

Coopersville, MI 49404