Lori Joan Jacob

Lori Joan Jacob (VanderStel), age 59, of Grand Rapids, was called home to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Lori was a devoted, loving and caring wife and mother. After losing her first husband, Gerry VanderStel, she married Tom in 2013. Lori was recognized throughout the Diocese of Grand Rapids for her wonderful talent for uplifting, joyous, musical worship at Mass and other Catholic religious services. The loss of her talent and her ability to praise God through music will be felt by her church families and their children that she taught at The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Belmont and St. John Vianney Church in Wyoming. She was a courageous, optimistic, beautiful, humble, giving woman who thoroughly enjoyed gardening and being out in nature. She also loved cooking. Her family says they never had the same meal twice, nor did any of her friends at the many parties she hosted. Through her music and example, she built many friendships in both parishes. Lori loved to travel, especially with her children. She loved to travel to Costa Rica, Traverse City, Georgia, and many other places. Above all, she enjoyed her family. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 9 years, Tom; children: Gerry and Jennifer, Salem and Ansley, Kitty and Ryan, and Tom’s children; Mike and Kristin, Tony and Kourtney, Christopher and Meredith; siblings: Kitty, Dorie, Sue, Ed, Steven; step-dad, Big Steve; her grandchildren: Caleb, Maggie, Allie, Easton, Vince, Grace, Louis, Ella, Annabelle, Emberly, Isla Jo; many nieces, nephews and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Marilyn Szarkowski; and sister, Mary Lou. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Monday, June 27, 2022 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 4101 Clyde Park Ave. SW, Wyoming. Relatives and friends may meet the family Sunday from 3 - 6 pm at St. John Vianney Church, as well as from 9:30 to 11:00 am prior to the service at the church on Monday. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to St. John Vianney Music Education.