Arlene J. VanderKooi's Obituary
Mrs. Arlene J. VanderKooi, age 92, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 in Walkerville. She was born on September 3, 1928 to Lawrence and Everal (Jones) Flanery in Troy Twp. On July 10, 1948, Arlene married Andrew VanderKooi and he preceded her in death on March 24, 2008 after 59 wonderful years together. Andrew and Arlene raised their two children in Muskegon, where Arlene worked at Muskegon Piston Ring for 30 years before retiring in 1976. She always enjoyed going back north to family and eventually purchased property to build her and Andy’s retirement home on School Section Lake in Walkerville. She enjoyed walking with her retired neighbors around the lake and was an excellent bowler. She was known for her delicious pies, which her grandchildren always greatly enjoyed and requested often. Arlene is survived by her children, Darrell (Karen) VanderKooi and Susan (SFC Kevin) McCleary; grandchildren, Steven (Alissa) VanderKooi, Lisa (Brian) Corcoran, David Walker, and Samantha (Alan) Cole; and great-grandchildren, Jackson, Rose, Henry, Ella, Goldie, Jacob, Holly, Nolan, Freya, Evelyn, and Aurora. Along with her husband, Arlene was also preceded in death by her son, David on February 1, 1967; brothers, Clifford, Gaylord, and Vern; and sisters, Essie, Mary, and Shirley. A Private Graveside Service will be held at Restlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Harbor Hospice Foundation in Arlene’s memory. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Please feel free to share a memory with the family on their online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.
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