Dixie Vander Wagen's Obituary
Mrs. Dixie Vander Wagen, age 87, beloved wife, nurturing mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 in Grand Haven, Michigan. She was born in Muskegon, Michigan on February 20, 1938 to William and Glenda (Werley) Cox. She was a member of Fruitport Congregational Church. Dixie's illustrious 25-year career spanned positions in sales, real estate, and as the owner of a card and gift shop in Fruitport before her retirement in 1988. Her dedication to her work was matched only by her love of travel, with favorite destinations including Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, various Louisiana plantations, and haunted houses. She also enjoyed snowmobiling and spending time at their cabin in Irons, Michigan. Dixie will be fondly remembered for her nurturing personality, kindness, generosity, and appreciation for a cold beer. On August 17, 1956, Dixie married Roger Vander Wagen and he survives her along with two children, Deborah (Tony) Klein and Kurt (Margaret) Vander Wagen; three grandchildren, Nathan (Amber) Vander Wagen, Ryan (Lauren Brooks) Vander Wagen, and Jillian (Christian Adame) Klein; four great-grandchildren, Adalyn Vander Wagen, Owen Vander Wagen, Emersyn Vander Wagen, and August Vander Wagen; and brother, Roger (Carol Ann) Cox. She was preceded in death by her parents and twin sisters, Janice and Janet Cox. VISITATION will be held from 5-7 PM Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, April 24, 2025 at The Lee Chapel. Burial will be in Fruitport Pine Hill Cemetery. MEMORIALS in memory of Dixie may be directed to the Fruitport Community Church. You may sign her online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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