John F. Van Veelen's Obituary
John F. Van Veelen, age 91, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2021. He was born December 19, 1929 in Muskegon to John and Anna (Workman) Van Veelen and was a lifelong resident of the area. John married Geraldine Carter on April 26, 1952 and she preceded him in death on July 8, 2006. He later married Ruth Chalke on June 7, 2008 and she survives him. He worked over 40 years as the owner and operator of Van Veelen Construction. John was a member of Lake Harbor United Methodist Church where he served as a church trustee. He was also a member of the West Michigan Flying Club and the Lakeshore Woodcarvers. Survivors include his wife, Ruth Van Veelen; 2 sons, John A. (Cindy) Van Veelen, David (Theresa) Van Veelen; 1 daughter, Kimberley Willis; 9 grandchildren, Jennifer (Neil) Hemphill, Emily (Jonathan) Cook, Josh (Kristynne) Van Veelen, Jonathan (Stephanie) Van Veelen, Justin (Autum) Van Veelen, Katie (Nathan) Fairchild, Jessica (Jason) Reining, Derek Lauber, Matthew (Elizabeth) Lauber; many great-grandchildren and 2 sisters, Louise Cass and Shirley Shanty. There will be no services and interment will take place at the Lake Harbor Memorial Garden. Memorial contributions in memory of John may be made to Harbor Hospice. Arrangements handled by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. Sign the guestbook online at www.sytsemafh.com
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