Justin Lee Slagter Jr. “JJ”, age 8, passed away unexpectedly working on the farm – which was his favorite place to be. JJ loved anything outdoors - Marvel and DC superheroes, John Deere tractors, and working with his dad on the farm. JJ hated shopping, but loved to go to Bath and Body Works with his mom; she could never get him to leave. Curious from the start, he loved bugs, spiders, and anything that crawled or slithered. He “shared” his love of bugs by chasing anyone who was close enough to show them the latest catch. Not only did JJ like watching superheroes, he became a superhero by protecting his classmates from bullies and standing up for all. Martin was his “Gotham” and JJ was their “Batman.”
JJ will be deeply missed by his parents Justin Lee Slagter Sr. and Elaina Baptiste; sister, Neveah; bonus-siblings Candace and Brenden; grandparents Jeffrey “Poppi” (Tammy “Mimi”) Baptiste; Nana Pat (Darren) Newstead; dogs Stormi and Paisley; and numerous aunts, uncles, extended family, and friends. JJ was preceded in death by his grandpa, Richard “Papa” Shanks and grandma, Debra Baptiste.
Visitation with the family will be held from 2-5 p.m. Friday, September 29, 2023 at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home (Wayland Chapel), 312 N. Main St., Wayland, MI 49348. A celebration of JJ’s life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Martin Reformed Church, 1073 West Allegan St., Martin, MI 49070. In honor of JJ, the family requests that guests wear their best camo, U of M, or superhero attire. In honor of JJ and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Brandon Elementary School (Martin Public Schools) for children in need. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.kubiakcookwayland.com.
