Joshua Averil Van Slyke

On June 16, 2020, the world prematurely lost Joshua Averil Van Slyke, 42. He had a brilliant mind and worked diligently to excel at his career, most recently as IT Infrastructure Manager for Benchmade in Portland. An avid fan of soccer, Joshua loved playing, coaching and watching his favorite sport. His magnetic personality and sarcastic wit won him many friends in both Grand Rapids and Portland, often connecting with a simple point of interest, like hiking, the latest in electronics, new music, or Nike shoes. Generous with his time; his helpful attitude and loving heart will be greatly missed.

Joshua was preceded in death by his father, Byron and grandparents, Carl and Ione Lanham, grandmother, Audrey Piechocki. He is survived by Brandy Van Slyke; his son, Austin Kibby; mother, Lou Ann Van Slyke; brother, Damion (Laura) Van Slyke of Hudsonville; aunts, uncles, cousins, and 3 nieces and two nephews.

OREGON: A memorial service will be held at 3:00pm PST on Friday, June 26, 2020 at Finley Sunset Hills, 6801 SW Sunset Hwy, Portland, OR. Please go to the Finley Sunset Hills Mortuary and Sunset Hills Memorial Park Facebook Page to watch the live stream (the video will also be available after the service on the Facebook page).

MICHIGAN: A memorial service will be held at 11:00am EST on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at Wellspring Community Church, 4466 Bauer Road, Hudsonville, MI.

In lieu of flowers, donations in the honor of Joshua Van Slyke may be sent to National Alliance on Mental Illness.

If you are experiencing suicidal crisis or emotional distress, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Your life matters.