Harry Vanderkooi

Mr. Harry Vernon "Van" VanderKooi, age 82, passed away Thursday, March 29, 2007. Mr. VanderKooi was born August 13, 1924 to John and Lucille (Walker) VanderKooi in Muskegon. He served his country in the US Army during WWII and was a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal of Honor. On September 4, 1948, he married the former Ernestine Lambert in Muskegon Heights. Mr. VanderKooi was the owner of Van's Appliance, before retiring in 1986. He was a very active member of both the Muskegon and Grand Haven Gospel Chapel where he taught Sunday school, youth group, and served as an elder. He enjoyed membership in the Muskegon Camera Club, the Michigan Woodcarvers Association, and Lakeshore Carvers. Mr. VanderKooi is SURVIVED by his beloved wife, Ernestine; 2 daughters, Janet (James) Pascavis of Muskegon and Terri VanderKooi of Middleville; 2 grandchildren, Jim and Jessica Pascavis; 4 brothers, Leo (Carolyn), Jack (Donna), Lyle (Eleanor), and John (Thelma) VanderKooi; 2 sisters, Dora Schutter and Jeri (John) Hamil; sister-in-law, Elfriede VanderKooi; very special friend, Joyce Domire; and many nieces and nephews. Van was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan K. VanderKooi in 1999; his sisters, Ida Cline and Lucille Hoffman; and brothers, Don and James VanderKooi. A FUNERAL SERVICE will be held 12 noon Monday, April 2, 2007 at Grand Haven Gospel Chapel (1805 Waverly Ave., Grand Haven) with Pastor Ken Shady officiating. VISITATION will be 2-4 & 6-8 PM Sunday at The Sytsema Chapel Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. 737 Apple Avenue 231-726-5210 Burial will be in Mona View Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Bair Lake Bible Camp (12500 Prang St., Jones, MI 49061) or Harbor Hospice.