Sara Vanbiesbrouck's Obituary
Beloved by many, Sara Vanbiesbrouck, age 95, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, April 3, 2026, in Grand Haven, MI. She was born December 28, 1930, in Naples, Italy, to Fernando and Antonia (Ranuaro) Fucci. At age 24, she immigrated to the United States, where she established her home in the Detroit area for 42 years. In 1957, she married the love of her life, Robert Vanbiesbrouck, who preceded her in death on April 26, 2011. Together, they enjoyed 25 years in warm Boca Raton, Florida, before his passing. In 2021, she relocated to Spring Lake, Michigan, to live with her son and be near family.
Sara worked for many years as a self-employed housekeeper extraordinaire. She was an excellent cook, especially known for her pasta and meatballs, and took great pride in hosting beautiful gatherings. She had a natural gift for gardening, and everything she tended thrived. Sara was an ardent fan of baseball and hockey, from the pros to little league and mites. Most importantly, this included her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether through volunteering or simply lending a hand, Sara's specialties were cleaning and organizing, or gifting delicious Italian meals, previously prepared or live and in-person lessons. Sara was also a faithful attendee of Harvest Bible Church, Spring Lake. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her. Because of her faith in Jesus Christ, the promised reality, rewards, and reunion of Heaven are now hers.
SURVIVORS include her sons, Julian (Donna) Vanbiesbrouck of Rochester, MI and John (Rosalinde) Vanbiesbrouck of Spring Lake; seven grandchildren, Alexandra Vanbiesbrouck, Patrick (Ashley) Vanbiesbrouck, Ian (Kristin) Vanbiesbrouck, Ben (Chelsea) Vanbiesbrouck, Nick (Lindsey) Vanbiesbrouck, Daniel (Cauryn Nowicki) Vanbiesbrouck, and Nicole Vanbiesbrouck, ; ten great-grandchildren; two sisters, Rosa Bounocore of Italy and Mary Fatia of South Africa; and many nieces and nephews.
Sara was also preceded in death by her son, Frank Vanbiesbrouck; four brothers; and a sister.
A Celebration of Sara’s Life will be held 11:30 AM Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Harvest Bible Church – Spring Lake Campus. VISITATION with her family will be from 10:00 AM until the service starts at 11:30 AM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Harvest Bible Church – Spring Lake Campus or Moody Radio will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at https://www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge Street, Spring Lake, MI 49456 (616) 842-6100.
What’s your fondest memory of Sara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Sara?
Share a story where Sara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Sara you’ll never forget.
How did Sara make you smile?