Barbara Vander Wal, 81, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, May 8, 2019.  She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Robert Vander Wal, and two children, Randy Vander Wal and Jillon (Jill) Vander Wal.  Barbara taught private piano lessons for several years, having worked as a clerk in the drug store to earn money to buy her piano from a music store, where she would also play for customers in the front window.  Barbara earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and eventually her master’s degree in reading.  She taught at Grandville Christian Elementary School for 18 years where she specialized in teaching children to read.  She was also a long-term member of the chancel choir at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church.  Her contributions to the education of others and her musical talents will be missed.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, May 15, at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church, 107 LaGrave Ave., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, with Rev. John Steigenga officiating.  Interment Rest Lawn Memorial Park.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday, May 14, from 6-8 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, and also from 10-10:45 am prior to the service at church.

Leave Your Tribute Message

May 13, 2019 6:21am
Our deepest condolences and prayers are with you.

- Betty & Devin Ortega-Furgeson




Order flowers for Barbara's service.

Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement

White Wonder

Thinking of You Basket

Tender Touch

Stargazer Garden

Stargazer Easel Spray

Sincere Sympathy Garden

Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)

Remembrance Easel Spray

Natures Glory

Loving Embrace

Gerbera Greetings

Colorful Memories Wreath

Classic Sympathy

Blooming Duo

Bells of Beauty

Beautiful Memories

Beautiful Blessings Wreath

Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.

 

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