Lyssa Beth Nykamp
March 25, 1983 – August 17, 2026
A memorial gathering to honor and celebrate Lyssa’s life will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, at Centerpoint Church, 2345 N. 10th St. Kalamazoo, MI 49009. Memorial contributions may be given to Lyssa’s children’s education fund, (checks payable to Raymond James FBO Nykamp Education).
Obituary
Lyssa Beth Nykamp, age 43, was called into the arms of her Heavenly Father on August 17, 2026. She was surrounded by prayer, faith and loved ones. Lyssa was born in Muskegon, MI, on March 25, 1983, into the family of David and Mary (Flickema) Plantenga. Growing up, faith, loyalty to family and friends, courage and kindness became the foundation of the woman she would become. Lyssa lived and loved to the fullest. She dedicated her days to making special bonds and she filled those days strengthening each. She was a daughter who made her parents proud, and a sister who was always there when needed. The “boss of the family” Lyssa always found a way to bring reassurance and strength to those around her. Her greatest joy in life came when she began a family of her own. She was the fiercely loving mother to daughters Chanel and Selah. She also cared for her nephews as if they were her own children. The time she spent with the kids was incredibly important to Lyssa. Each of the kids had a special nickname, “My Love”, “Tysie Boo”, “Moos B’Goos” and “Mae Mae”. More than a nickname name, she gave each of them a special relationship filled with moments and memories. She was the fun-loving mother and aunt who could be counted on when life became difficult. She was there to listen, to correct, and when necessary, defend. Sleepovers, April Fools’ pranks, catching old movies, a delivery of fresh Crumble Cookies or ice cream where routine ways she showered the kids with love. Her heart and her home were always open to the children and in her time, she didn’t just tell them how to love, she showed them. Lyssa’s relationships with her siblings, friends and community were equally important to her and she leaves behind memories of sincere kindness and joy. Lyssa loved and lived courageously. She filled the lives of those who knew her with smiles, encouragement, dignity and faith. She was truly a beautiful soul! Lyssa is survived by her loving daughters, Chanel and Selah Nykamp; parents, David and Mary; sister Jill (Eric) VanHamersveld; brother, Matthew Plantenga (and special friend, Katie Zehner); nephews, Tysen and Miles VanHamersveld; many extended family and friends.
