James E. "Jim" VanderVelde's Obituary
Mr. James E. “Jim” VanderVelde, age 74, passed away Monday, June 1, 2009 at Harbor Hospice Poppen Residence. He was born September 22, 1934 in Muskegon to John and Mary VanderVelde and lived his entire life in the area. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marines having served during the Korean War 1953-1957. On September 3, 1960, he married the former Margaret A. Japenga in Muskegon and she survives him. Jim worked 23 years for Westwind Construction Company are retired in 1997. He continued to work part-time in maintenance for Sullivan Township. Jim and Margaret enjoyed camping and were active in the Happy Wanderers Trailer Club. Jim also enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was always ready for a good game of cards – Cribbage or Poker among his favorite games. Jim enjoyed drinking his coffee watching the squirrels and the birds play in the little houses he would build for them. He was a devoted fan of John Wayne and had collected several memorabilia. He will be sorely missed by his loving wife, children and grandchildren. Along with his wife, Margaret, he is survived by 2 children, Kenneth (Vicki) VanderVelde of Middleville, Cindy (Michael) Dexter of Muskegon; 5 grandchildren, Ashley (Chris) Strang, Brandy Clark, Kevin Dexter, Matthew Dexter, Joseph Dexter; brothers and sisters, Bill (Bonnie) VanderVelde of Muskegon, twin Louise E. (Richard) Smith of Muskegon, Theodore (Jean) VanderVelde of Muskegon, Marilyn (Gerald) DuVal of New Hampshire. A FUNERAL SERVICE will be held 11:00 AM Friday, June 5, 2009 at The Lee Chapel, Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc., 6291 S. Harvey Street, (231) 798-1100 with Pastor Jerry Worrel officiating. INTERMENT will take place in Sullivan Township Cemetery. VISITATION with Jim’s family will be one hour prior to the service, 10-11 AM Friday. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS may be directed to Harbor Hospice. Sign the guestbook on-line at www.sytsemafh.com.
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