Jean A. Vanderlaan's Obituary
Jean A. Vanderlaan, age 79, passed away Monday, January 12, 2026 into the arms of her Savior. She was born on July 14, 1946 in Muskegon to Albert and Minnie (Weesies) Zuidema.
Jean worked for many years as an administrative assistant at Western Michigan Christian High School in Muskegon before later moving to Holland. On September 18, 1965, she married Doug Vanderlaan, and together they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. Jean and Doug were members of Holland Heights Christian Reformed Church in Holland, MI.
Jean found her greatest joy in her family, especially her beloved “grandboys,” whom she treasured dearly. She was an avid gardener with a true green thumb and took great pride in her gardens. Jean and Doug loved traveling the world, particularly trips that ended in warm sunshine and sandy beaches. She also had a creative spirit, enjoying painting, sewing, and a variety of other crafts.
SURVIVORS include her husband, Doug; sons, Kent (Gina) Vanderlaan and Kelly (Kristin) Vanderlaan; her grandboys, Chevy Vanderlaan, Levi Vanderlaan, and Noah Vanderlaan; many nieces and nephews; and special exchange daughter, Maja Karlberg. Jean was preceded in death by her parents; sister and brother-in-law, Ruth (Jack) Kroeze; along with brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Marvin (Virginia) Zuidema.
FUNERAL SERVICES will be 11AM Friday, January 16, 2026 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services (6291 S. Harvey St. Norton Shores, MI 49444 231-798-1100). VISITATION with Jean’s family will be from 9:30 – 11AM prior to the service. Memorial Contributions in Jean’s name may be given to Western Michigan Christian High School. Burial will be in Restlawn Cemetery in Muskegon.
Share memories with the family online at https://www.SytsemaFH.com
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