Barbara VanderVliet

Barbara Gayle VanderVliet, age 80, of Jenison, went home to be with her Lord on Monday, January 12, 2026. Barb had a servant’s heart, faithfully caring for her family and lovingly supporting her husband in ministry throughout their years together. She found great joy in serving others through her involvement in Coffee Break Ministry and Crossroads Bible Ministry, where she encouraged many through her quiet faith and dedication. Barb was gifted with many talents and especially enjoyed sewing, music, cooking, and baking—often sharing these gifts as a way to bless those around her.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Rev. Dr. Marvin VanderVliet; and sisters-in-laws, Mary Zoerhof and Bev Zoerhof.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Lisa and Bob Howell, David and Donelle VanderVliet, Michael and Kara VanderVliet, Jonathan and Charlie VanderVliet, Nathan VanderVliet; grandchildren, Chloe, Mya, Brianna, Hannah, Collin, Micah, Alex, Oliver, Asher; brothers, Wayne Zoerhof, Gene Zoerhof; sisters-in-law, Ruth and Bert Vander Meer, Shirley and Peter Pijnappel; and many nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, January 19, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Rev. Brandon Haan officiating. The burial will take place at East Saugatuck Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Sunday, January 18, from 2-4 p.m. at the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Crossroads Prison Ministries or Mel Trotter Ministries.