Henry Jager

Henry Allen Jager born December 17, 1932, to Alko and Ellen Jager, died following complications from a fall on July 20, 2026. He was a life-long Kalamazoo, Michigan resident except for his two years of military service. He had three younger siblings: Clarissa, Alko,Jr, and Frances, who all preceded him in death. Soon after graduating from Kalamazoo, Christian High School, Henry met the love of his life, Shirley Cook at Grace Christian Reformed Church. Their dating was interrupted when Henry was drafted into the US Army during the Korean War. He was always extremely thankful to God that he was stationed in Salzburg, Austria for his two-year stint. Upon his honorable discharge, he and Shirley were married. They soon had their own family: Susan, Douglas, Thomas, and Kristie. Henry was a devoted husband to Shirley, especially in their later years, and a frequent encourager of his children in regard to education, sports, and the Christian faith.

Henry worked for a few years at a paper mill before getting the opportunity to apply his keen mathematical abilities, first as an electrical apprentice and later as a non-degreed electrical engineer where he specialized in designing electrical systems for explosion-proof areas. Following a very brief retirement, Henry missed the social outlet of working with people and acquired a job as an electrical inspector. He continued this role until he was nearly 89, thereafter committing all his time to taking care of Shirley.

Although he never attended college, Henry was a strong advocate for both Christian education and for higher education. He served on the Kalamazoo Christian School board both as a member and as the President. He assured that each of his children went to college and was especially pleased to see each of his grandchildren graduate from college, and for some to obtain post-graduate degrees.

Becoming a "Papa" was one of the best things in his life. He frequently helped Shirley while she babysat the grandchildren and even several of the great-grandchildren. He loved them each dearly and cheered their accomplishments. While a grandfather should not have a favorite grandchild, each would recognize that Tom and Laura's son Grant was Papa's favorite. Grant was limited by physical and mental challenges, but he and Henry had an extraordinary bond which in turn made them both better. Henry became more gentle and loving and was profoundly impacted when Grant died in 2008.

A decades-long member of Grace Christian Reformed Church, Henry faithfully served several terms as deacon and elder. He was a member of various church committees, Bible studies, choirs, and was a Sunday school teacher. For many years he and Shirley delivered "Our Daily Bread" to shut-ins. He and Shirley were faithful prayer warriors, praying daily for each child and grandchild by name. He would affirm the verse in 3 John vs 4 "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."

Henry's hobbies included golf, (which he played regularly until about age 90), travelling across the United States, taking dozens of cruises, and spending time with family. His life is marked by the generosity of his time, talents, and finances to bless the many people and causes he held dear.

He is survived by Shirley, his beloved wife of 71 years, his children Sue Boot (Scott), Doug Jager (Deb), Tom Jager (Laura), and Kristie Nolta (Jeff). He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He will be sincerely missed by them all, but their sadness is lessened knowing he is in heaven seeing Jesus and reunited with Grant. He has left a lasting legacy of faithfulness, generosity, and kindness.

Friends may visit with Henry's family on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 10:00-11:00 AM, at Grace Christian Reformed Church, 1724 Whites Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, where his service will be held at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Grace Christian Reformed Church or to Park Village Pines. Please share memories and condolences at www.langelands.com