Richard L. "Dick" Vanderwest's Obituary
Richard L. “Dick” Vanderwest, age 74, passed away Tuesday, November 30, 2021. He was born February 16, 1947 in Muskegon to Melvin and Gladys (Turner) Vanderwest and lived in the area his entire life. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy having served during the Vietnam War. Dick worked 30 years for Fruitport Community Schools and retired as the Director of Transportation in 2000. He also owned Teresa Ann Fishing Charters which he continued to operate until his full retirement in 2011. He lived for his Big Lake fishing and enjoyed as much time on the lake as he could. Dick was a sports enthusiast and loved Football, Hockey and Baseball, but he was especially passionate about Michigan State Football. Dick was also a diehard Detroit Lions and Tigers fan. However, his grandson’s sporting events were his first priority, and he was their biggest and loudest fan! He is survived by his daughter, Teresa (Greg) Reames; 2 grandsons, Garrett and Gavin Reames; 1 brother, Tom (Sharon) Vanderwest; his former wife, Nancy Meyers; his long-time fishing buddy, Ron Bacon; and nieces and nephew. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, and 1 brother, Jim Vanderwest. A Memorial Service will be held 12:00 PM Friday, December 17, 2021 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. Military Honors will be offered by the Muskegon County Council of Veterans of Foreign Wars and the U.S. Navy Funeral Detail from Battle Creek, MI. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Memorial Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to www.OperationSmile.org.
Sign the online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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