Roger Harwin VanderMeulen

Roger Harwin Vander Meulen
11/04/1943 – 11/09/2020

It is with great sadness for those of us left in his absence, but with great joy for him in his eternal home, that we announce the unexpected passing of Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather, Roger Vander Meulen.  Roger died from complications of the Covid 19 virus.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis, whom he was married to for 39 years.  He is also survived by his son, Thomas Roger (Susan) VanderMeulen, and daughter Tamara Joy (Dave) Laninga.  He was also ‘Dad’ to 4 stepchildren, Greg DeVries, Peggy (Mike) Meulenberg, Pam (Randy) Lubbers, and Amy DeVries. Roger also enjoyed spending  time with his 12 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren.
Roger also leaves behind a brother, Don (Deanna) Vander Meulen, Sisters: Jean Baas Tacoma, MaryAnn (Lou) Kehr , Sister in laws, Judy Vander Meulen, Marge Baukema, Bonnie Betten, Brother in law, Cal (Roxanne) Betten and several nieces and nephews.

Raised on a farm in northern Michigan, Roger got up ‘before the chickens’ to do his chores, then went to school, and came home to more farm chores.  He left the farm to move to Grand Rapids to work at Keeler Brass, and to raise his family.  He enjoyed several years of camping, boating, and trips with family and friends. Phyllis and Roger also spent time in their 5th Wheel in Florida during the Winter months. Until Roger became ill, he took great  joy in mowing several lawns for his neighbors, handyman jobs, and helping out others whenever he had the
opportunity.  It was almost impossible for him to ‘put his feet up’ and relax.

We are  sure and certain that Roger is in his final resting place, for all eternity, surrounded by the love of Jesus Christ. “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”  Romans 6:23

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Roger’s name to Love, Inc., 3300 Van Buren St. Hudsonville, MI 49426.

At this time there is no visitation or service planned.  A celebration of life is anticipated in the future when it will be permitted.