Douglas Rozema

Doug “Slippery” Rozema, age 72, of Hudsonville, Michigan, passed away on Saturday, May 3, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, after a courageous battle with squamous cell carcinoma. He was surrounded by family and loved ones in his final days.

Born and raised in Wyoming, Michigan, Doug was a Michigander through and through. If you knew him as a young man, you knew one of his hobbies was always having custom-painted cars and motorcycles. Also from a young age he became a diehard Lions fan and we are all thankful he got to see them do as well as they did in his final year. Doug was known for his kind heart, sense of humor, killer Keno skills, and deep love for his family. He had a passion for bass fishing, especially when he could share it with his son, Chris. 

One of Doug’s favorite places in the world was Del-Les Resort in the upper peninsula. A special place spanning generations of the Rozema family. Trips that started with his parents, Bob and Faye, for deer camp continued with his kids and grandkids, who now love the area just as much as he did. Some of his most cherished moments were spent in the great outdoors and enjoying time with his grandchildren, Conner and Haley, who brought him endless joy.

Doug opened his arms and heart to many, including as a second Dad to many of his children’s friends.

Doug is survived by his loving children, Meg Matthews and Chris Rozema; his grandchildren, Conner Matthews and Haley Matthews; his sisters, Sandy VanderHulst, Tami and Steve Fifer; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Faye Rozema; son-in-law, James Matthews; sister, Pam Gulch; and brother-in-law, Larry VanderHulst. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 17, from 1-5 p.m at an event space located at 3874 West River Drive, Comstock Park, MI 49321.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the American Cancer Society.