Kaitlyn Haley (Starkey) VanBuskirk

Kaitlyn Haley VanBuskirk (Starkey), age 25, passed away peacefully on the evening of July 19, 2026, surrounded by the unwavering love of her family and closest friends after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. 

Born on October 2, 2000, in Pontiac, Michigan, Kaitlyn was raised in Waterford as the cherished only child of Marcus and Tammy Starkey. From the very beginning, she possessed an extraordinary combination of intelligence, determination, and compassion. She was fiercely loyal to those she loved, unapologetically stood up for what she believed in, and never backed down from a challenge. Those who knew Kaitlyn admired not only her brilliant mind but also her quick wit, infectious laughter, and the strength of her character. 

As a child, Kaitlyn's boundless energy led her to years of jazz and hip-hop dance classes, where she delighted in performing in recitals. She was also an active Girl Scout, creating cherished memories selling cookies alongside her mom and learning the values of service, perseverance, and friendship that would remain with her throughout her life. 

Kaitlyn approached every endeavor with passion and determination. An exceptional student who was never satisfied with anything less than her very best, she graduated from Waterford Kettering High School before earning her degree in Cybersecurity from Grand Valley State University. Her love of music flourished during her school years as well. A gifted cellist, Kaitlyn proudly held the first-chair position in her high school orchestra, performing alongside the boy who would become the love of her life, Jayce, who played second chair. 

Kaitlyn and Jayce's love story began in December 2017. What started as a high school romance grew into a partnership built on unwavering devotion, carrying them through years of long-distance college life and every milestone that followed. Together they shared countless adventures, including an unforgettable trip across Europe in 2023, where Jayce proposed overlooking the breathtaking skyline of Paris in front of the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre. They celebrated their marriage in June 2025, surrounded by family and friends, with a subtle touch of Harry Potter magic woven throughout the day; a perfect reflection of their shared love of imagination, adventure, and each other. In April 2026, they proudly purchased their first home together, beginning another chapter they had dreamed of building side by side. 

Professionally, Kaitlyn brought her sharp intellect, determination, and unwavering work ethic to her career as a Cybersecurity Analyst at Meijer Headquarters in Grand Rapids. She approached her work with the same excellence and integrity that defined every aspect of her life. 

Outside of work, Kaitlyn embraced life wholeheartedly. She loved attending concerts and was an enthusiastic fan of Justin Bieber and Machine Gun Kelly. One of her happiest memories was spending MGK Day in Cleveland, dancing at the front of the stage, completely immersed in the music she loved. She found strength and friendship through kickboxing at CKO in Grand Rapids, where she formed many meaningful relationships. A lifelong Disney enthusiast, Kaitlyn found joy in every animated classic from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to today's newest releases, though The Emperor's New Groove remained her all-time favorite. At home, she treasured the quiet moments shared with Jayce and their spirited cat, Marbles, whom they lovingly raised from a kitten. 

In November 2024, Kaitlyn's life changed forever when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. True to the woman she had always been, she faced every obstacle with extraordinary courage and determination. She completed chemotherapy in time to fulfill one of her greatest dreams, walking down the aisle to marry Jayce. When she was later diagnosed with High Grade Neuroendocrine Cancer, Kaitlyn refused to surrender. She endured additional rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, traveled to the Cleveland Clinic and MD Anderson Cancer Center in pursuit of clinical trials, and met every challenge with remarkable resilience and hope. Her strength inspired everyone who had the privilege of walking beside her during her journey. 

Yet even more remarkable than her courage was the love she gave so freely. Kaitlyn fiercely protected those she loved, stood up for those who needed a voice, and made the people closest to her feel safe, valued, and deeply cared for. She leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, unconditional love, and unforgettable memories that will continue to inspire all who knew her. 

Kaitlyn is survived by her devoted husband, Jayce VanBuskirk; her loving parents, Marcus and Tammy Starkey; her grandmother, Kathy Starkey; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, April and Brad VanBuskirk; her brother-in-law, Jacob VanBuskirk; and her beloved cat, Marbles. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Bobby Starkey, and Nancy and Donald Loveland. 

A funeral service honoring Kaitlyn's life will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at COATS FUNERAL HOME – WATERFORD. Family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.   To post a tribute, visit www.CoatsFuneralHome.com. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial donations be made in Kaitlyn's memory to the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center. Please send memorial donations to University Hospitals – Institutional Relations and Development. 

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