Janice Vander Molen

Janice Vander Molen, age 75, passed away peacefully with her husband by her side on Sunday, May 14, 2017, after a long journey with Alzheimer's. She was born on May 16, 1941 in Chicago. Jan was preceded in death by her parents, Gerrit and Grace Vander Bent; her sister, Marilyn; and her brother, Ron; sister-in-law Jean Vander Molen. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 53 years, Ray; children, Tim and Patty Spykstra, Randy and MaryBeth Vander Molen, Brad Vander Molen, Rich and Christine Duell, Mike and Shannon Vander Molen; 10 precious grandchildren; siblings, Gary (Barb) Vander Bent; Ken (Connie) Vander Bent, David (Sally) Vander Bent; sisters-in-law, Joyce Vander Bent Davids, Shirley and Rich Van Vuren; and several relatives and friends. A celebration of Jan’s life will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Haven Christian Reformed Church, 541 Alice St, Zeeland, with Rev. Tim Spykstra and Rev. Art Van Wolde officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family Saturday from 10-11 a.m. at the church prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in memory of Jan to Mission India or Oceans Ministries.

Leave Your Tribute Message

May 20, 2017

Ray, I was saddened to hear of Jan's passing. I didn't even know that she was struggling with Alzheimer's. It's such a wicked illness. I have such fond memories of the both of you. Jan's smile in the hallways of CCES always brightened my mood. She was such a steady, compassionate person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of your family. Know that you are held in His arms.

- Jan Damsteegt DeJong

May 18, 2017

Ray and family Our deepest sympathy to you. May you feel God's loving arms around you. We are praying for rest and peace.

- Jay and Lyn Bos Zylema

May 17, 2017

Ray, our sympathies and prayers to you and your family in this time of great grief and loss. I remember Jan as full of sweetness and kindness. Greet your children for me, especially Randy. I still see him as a cute, smiling little blonde six year old!

- Cheryl and Bob La Fleur

May 16, 2017

Ray, We're glad to "ran into you" not long ago at the beach boardwalk. It was a good thing to know you both. May God's grace be sufficient for you and the family as you make even more adjustments. Blessings!

- George & Shirley Vink

May 16, 2017

I'm so sorry to hear this. We had such fun together along with Jan's sister Marilyn and our cousin Carol Vander Bent when my aunt and Uncle lived in Wheeling, Illinois. We played numerous games of croquet and took turns falling out of a hammock. We also spent time at my cousin'sGrandma and Grandpa Meyer's house and also with our Grandma Vander Bent and our Aunt Jean. Jan was always kind and showed the rest of us up at catacism when we were teenagers. She always memorized correctly the large portions of the original Heidelberg catacism we were required to learn! I'm happy to have these good memories to share.

- Paula Ballast

May 15, 2017

Our sympathy to you and your family in the loss of a precious wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Praying for you that you may feel God's peace today and in the days ahead.

- Rick & Kim Koll Family

May 15, 2017

Ray, our sincere sympathy to you. Didn't know she had Alzheimer's! I remember when you 2 came to my garage sale about 10 years ago. Janice was always so fun to talk to. But of course always enjoyed both of you at Calvin Christian. May you feel God's loving arms enfolding you now and always!

- Phil & Deb Ouwinga

May 15, 2017

Our sympathy and prayers to Ray and the family.

- Roger & Evelyn Feikema