Harriet Jean (VanDam) Stanaback

Harriet’s 99 years with us left a permanent positive impact on the lives of her family, friends, co-workers, and people that came across her path. We have a saying about our Grandma, “Though she is tiny, she is mighty and fierce.” She knew what she wanted, and forged ahead to make it possible. She was not afraid to lead, even in an era when women in leadership was rare.

Harriet’s greatest love was for her husband, Kenneth Stanaback, who preceded her in death in 1988. After his passing, she became the owner and president of their company, Conical Tool & Die, retiring at 80 years of age.

Harriet’s passions and hobbies were genealogy, sewing and everything to do with the great outdoors.

She was blessed to enjoy nature and walks through the woods every day on her 56 acre parcel of land she lived on. She donated 33 acres of this property to the city of Kentwood, with the express desire that it be for the sole purpose of others to enjoy also. It was developed into Stanaback Park in 2008 and is now considered a hidden gem, enjoyed by many.

Genealogy research gave her great pleasure, leaving us a rich history of connection with our heritage and ancestors as far back as the late 1700’s.

She was an incredible seamstress. No one believed that the clothing she sewed for her children was handmade because she was so skilled. Several of her quilts, doll clothes, and pin cushions are enjoyed by many.

Our Grandma loved us well and will live on forever in our hearts and through our lives.

Harriet is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Stanaback; Karen VanDyke (daughter), Richard Veldhuis (son); her stepchildren, Barbara (Jack) Taylor, Lynn Stanaback and David Stanaback; three of her four siblings, Dorothy Mesbergen, William VanDam, Norman VanDam, and two of her grandchildren, Mitch Veldhuis (grandson), and Isabella Sasso (great-granddaughter). She is survived by her stepchildren, Barry (Diane) Stanaback and Abby Wilde; her grandchildren, Kelly (Rick) Martinez, Amanda (Gus) Haynes, Steve (Jeana) VanDyke, Jason (Jamie) Veldhuis, Mindy (Doug) Mench, Holly (Jon) Holthof, Ellen Hirvela, Shawn Taylor, Marianne Taylor, Barry Allen Stanaback, Neven Zolenski, Josh Hoye, and Travis Keena. She is also survived by 26 great grandchildren, 13 great great grandchildren; her brother, Ron (Mary) VanDam; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 11 am Saturday, August 19 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood, with Rev. Greg VanderMeer officiating. Burial will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 6-8 pm and Saturday from 10-11 am all at the funeral home.