Christopher Sean VanderWest's Obituary
Christopher Sean VanderWest, age 39, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 11, 2025. He was born October 6, 1985, in Muskegon to David VanderWest and Gina Margret. As a child, Christopher loved playing baseball and was well known for his pitching ability. He also enjoyed basketball, skateboarding, and music. He had a strong passion for drumming, which led him to be the drummer for the band Kids on Fire. Christopher enjoyed being a big brother. He shared his passion for music with his sister Kaitlin, spending time playing various instruments together. He also spent several summers turtle hunting and building turtle ponds with his brother David. Christopher loved people and was considered a social butterfly. He also enjoyed being outside and taking walks along the bike path on Muskegon Lake. Christopher has worked as a cook at various restaurants throughout town and most recently was employed at Eagle Alloy, Inc. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. SURVIVORS include his father, David VanderWest (Tina Cherry); mother, Gina (Paul) Costanzo; grandparents Ralph and Majiel Costanzo, siblings: David VanderWest, Jr., Kaitlin (Joseph) Giordimaina, Chad Terpstra; Thea Dorsey and Joey Costanzo; nephews Logan and Malcolm; aunts and uncles: Leigh Ann (Ronald) Archer; Bob VanderWest, Linda Wittkopp and cousins Ronnie Archer and Becky (Scott) Morse. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Mary VanderWest, and his grandmother, Pam Hall. A Memorial Gathering will be held for Christopher on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100, with a Time of Sharing held at 11:00 AM with a luncheon to follow. MEMORIALS to the Western Michigan Adult & Teen Challenge or the Noah Project will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at https://www.sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Christopher?
What’s a lesson you learned from Christopher?
Share a story where Christopher's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Christopher you’ll never forget.
How did Christopher make you smile?

