George Kieft
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of George Edwin Kieft Jr., of Shelby. George was born on October 31, 1981, in Muskegon and passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025 surrounded by family.
George had been through many trials and tribulations throughout his life due to his ongoing medical needs but he never complained or let it stop him from living life to the fullest. After graduating from Shelby Public Schools, he enjoyed spending time volunteering for Shelby Elementary, where he would help in any capacity he could while he socialized. Being a Tiger was in his blood as he attended many sporting events always dressed in his purple and white, even while attending his nephew’s sporting events at MCC. George was a member of the Shelby Rotary and was the recipient of the Paul Harris Award. George was a member of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby, volunteering time here as well. His greatest joy was being an uncle to Landon and Addyson, never missing an athletic event, dance recital or event that they were involved in.
George will never know the countless lives he touched and the things that he taught us while on this earth, he was loved and respected by many.
A thank you to the care takers from St John’s House in Ludington for the exceptional care and love that was given to George over his short time there. As well as Turning Leaf in Scottville for their love and compassion over the last few years.
He leaves behind a legacy of hope, compassion, and love that will continue to inspire those who knew him. May his memory live on in the hearts of family, friends, and the community he cherished.
George is survived by: his parents, Guy and Judy Clements, father, George Kieft; sister, Sally (Mike) Smith; nephew, Landon Smith, and niece, Addyson Smith; step-sisters, Karmen Fox, Karen (Tom) Petersen, Nancy (Heidi) Fox, and Amanda Clements; grandfather Raymond Wybenga; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins; special friends Brenda and Bo Hawkins.
George was preceded in death by: his grandparents, Al and Josephine Kieft, and Audrey Wybenga; stepmother, Brenda Kieft.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ, 51 East Third Street, Shelby, with Pastor Russell officiating. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, January 2, 2026 at Harris Funeral Home, 267 North Michigan Avenue, Shelby and on Saturday, from 10 a.m., until the start of services at the church.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the family as they will be establishing a scholarship in his name for students entering the medical field at Shelby Public Schools.
Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.
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