Phillip M. Nieboer
February 23, 1935 – June 12, 2025
A service in witness to Phil’s life and faith will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. noon at Heritage Christian Reformed Church, 2857 S. 11th St., Kalamazoo, Friends may call on the family for two hours prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the church. Phil will be laid to rest at Ft. Custer National Cemetery with full military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to the Heritage Church Benevolent Fund or Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries, in c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Age 90 of Kalamazoo passed away Thursday, June 12, 2025. Phil was born in Kalamazoo on February 23, 1935, the son of Jacob and Grace (VanDenBerg) Nieboer. On August 10, 1956, he married the love of his life, Barbara J. Niewoonder who survives him. Together they raised a family rooted in faith, love, and service. Phil proudly served his nation in the United States Navy. Phil grew up in Kalamazoo and attended Kalamazoo Christian Schools. A faithful member of Heritage CRC, Phil served on church council and was known for his steadfast faith and servant heart. He loved the Lord deeply and was a prayer warrior for his children and grandchildren. Phil was a respected local businessman in the heating and air conditioning industry. He founded Nieboer Heating in 1965 and later owned a home inspection company. He served on the board of Kalamazoo Christian Schools and was involved in professional organizations such as the Heating & Cooling Association and the Carrier Dealer Council. An avid fisherman, Phil loved sharing that passion with his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed traveling, being in nature, and watching his grandkids in sports. Besides his wife, Phil is survived by his children, Peggy (Mike) VanHamersveld of Byron Center, Pamela (Luke) Vanderhill of Kalamazoo, Robert (Sunday) Nieboer of Galeburg, Sandra (Jeffrey) Mast of Grand Haven, Luke Tran of San Diego, CA; grandchildren, Rachel (Aaron) McBride, Matthew (Adeola) VanHamersveld, Sarah (Mario Martinez) VanHamersveld, Joshua (Bevan) Vanderhill, Aaron (Mandy) Vanderhill, Caleb (Meredith) Vanderhill, Jacob (Brianna) Nieboer, Adam Nieboer, Carly (Michael) Quirk, Samuel (Samantha) Mast, Benjamin (Gracie) Mast, Elizabeth Mast; great grandchildren, Blair McBride, Alexander VanHamersveld, Mateo Martinez, Jacob Nieboer, Melody Quirk; siblings, Donna Johncock, Mary (Bill) Greenfield, Howard (Debbie) Nieboer; sisters in law, Gert Nieboer and Wilma (Leo) VanderHorst; many nieces and nephews; and countless friends. Phil was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Micah Vanderhill; brothers, Nick (Ann) Nieboer, Jack Nieboer, Harold (Fran) Nieboer and Willard Nieboer; sisters Marguerite (Cal) Miersma, and Esther (Walt) Ring; brother-in-law, Norm Johncock.
Dear Pam & Luke: I’m as happy that I got to know Phi as I am sad to read of his passing. Perhaps focusing on happier times will help assuage the sadness of your loss. I’ll say a special prayer for Phil’s soul and the comfort of all who know and love him. If you get back to Florida, LET ME KNOW. Condolences, “Mac”
I am heartfelt on Phil’s Passing. I really relied on Phil when I worked at Heritage. I admired his thoughtfulness, compassion and knowledge. I will miss him but I have beautiful memories.
A man of character and faith who will be missed. During my turbulent teen years Mr. Nieboer planted seeds in my young restless heart of the importance of having a relationship with Christ, they took awhile to grow yet they did. For a Father back in the 70’s some dads were not to cool, but Phil was in my eyes. He had such a fullness and joy of living here as he passed through, and now is enjoying perfect peace and rest in his heavenly abode. Privileged to have known the Godly man and may the future generations continue to carry the torch of light he carried. David Knibbe
Luke and Pam: I’m sorry to read of the passing of Phil and very glad I got to meet and get to know him. Condolences, Mac