C. Dennis VanderStelt's Obituary
C. Dennis VanderStelt, age 74, of Norton Shores went to his eternal home to be with his Lord and Savior on November 8, 2021. He was born on June 23, 1947, in Muskegon to Clarence and Martha (TenBrink) VanderStelt. Dennis received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Central Michigan University in 1969 and his Master of Education Degree from Western Michigan University in 1973. He devoted 38 years of his life to education serving as a High School Teacher and Coach in the Oakridge School District and High School Principal at Ravenna and Mona Shores High School. Dennis was an accomplished athlete and was a member of the Western Michigan Christian 1965 Class C State Championship Basketball Team. He enjoyed landscaping his yard, photography, and summiting 14’ers in Colorado with his sons. Most importantly, he loved his family and cherished the time spent with them. On June 14, 1969, he married the love of his life, the former Carole Simantz of Grand Haven. She survives him along with his two sons, Todd (Andrea) and Trent (Amanda), daughter-in-law Bridget; seven grandchildren, Corbin, Ava, Sutton, Bower, Arbor, Vance and Evy, and number eight on the way. His oldest son Troy preceded him in death on July 1, 2008, the one-year anniversary of his retirement from the Mona Shores School District. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother Larry. A service to remember and celebrate Dennis’ life will be held Saturday, November 13, 2021, at 10:30 AM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation will be Friday evening, November 12, from 6-8 PM. For a more lasting memorial, and in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Muskegon Christian Elementary School. You may sign Dennis’ online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.
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