Irene Vander Wal, age 97 of Grand Rapids, went to be with her Lord and Savior surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, July 29, 2015. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Sidney who passed away August 13, 1993; 5 brothers, one sister and many in-laws.  Surviving are her 6 children, Pat (George) Nobel, Lavone Smith, Wayne (Ruth) Vander Wal, Louis (Jan) Vander Wal, Lois Austin and Ruth (Dick) Laman; nine grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters, Cora Vogel, Julie Vogel, Esther Meeuwenberg; sister-in-law, Annette (Herm) Dikkers. Irene was a deeply religious, loving woman who lived out the commandment to “Love Your Neighbor”; She was a sociable caring person who loved entertaining, especially family. She loved her grandkids, and great grandkids and enjoyed spending time with them.  The family will meet relatives and friends Sunday, August 2, 2015 2:00 – 5:00 at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Kentwood) 4646 Kalamazoo SE, Kentwood and one-hour prior at the Church.   Funeral services will be held Monday, August 3 11:00 AM at First Protestant Reformed Church, 2800 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids with the Rev. Bill Langerak officiating.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Faith Hospice.

Leave Your Tribute Message

July 31, 2015 9:20am
To the family of Irene Vander Wal, I am sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in knowing that "Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted; He saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18) With sympathy,

- kelsey lee

July 31, 2015 5:23am
Wayne and Ruth and family, So very sorry to learn of the passing of your mother, mother-in-law and grandmother. What a precious gift that she lived to see so many great grandchildren. You are in my prayers.

- Barbara Ford

July 30, 2015 3:27pm
Our sincere sympathy to the whole VanderWal family. Your Mom was a wonderful person who has left a great legacy through each of you. Our prayers during the next few days for God's peace to be with you.

- Tim & Marilynn Hoebeke




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