Robert Vander Wal

Robert Vander Wal, age 90, passed away December 17, 2025. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Vander Wal (De Vries) to whom he was married for 59 years, as well as by his brother, Douglas Vander Wall, and his parents, Peter Vander Wall and Jessie (Bos) Vander Wall. He is survived by his son, Randy Vander Wal, his daughter, Jillon Vander Wal and her husband, Dennis Boman.

Robert graduated from Calvin College (BA) in 1957 and from the University of Michigan (MBA) in 1959. He began working as a stockbroker at Hudson White Company which became Peninsular Securities Company in 1974. He became a partner in 1982, purchasing it with his business partner, Don Karpinski. He worked there for 51 years (1959-2010) before selling to Robert Baird in 2010. He worked for a few more years, retiring at the age of 74. He viewed his work as an opportunity to help others share in the promise of America and build futures for their children. 

Another large part of Robert’s life was his service at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church where he served as an elder and also as Treasurer of the Benefactor’s Trust Fund. Dad enjoyed learning, often taking notes during sermons. He very much appreciated the music ministry finding it spiritually uplifting.

Robert will be remembered for his work ethic, devotion, and congeniality, often sharing colloquialisms that made others smile. Dad enjoyed gardening and reading. He loved horses, calling them the founders of America. 

Robert will be greatly missed, we rejoice that he is at home in heaven, free from pain and struggle.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at LaGrave Christian Reformed Church, 107 LaGrave Ave. NE, Grand Rapids with Pastor Chad Boorsma officiating. Burial will take place at Rest Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Monday, from 5-7 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW and on Tuesday from 10-10:45 am at  the church prior to the service. If you would like to contribute flowers, Robert enjoyed planting flowers and gardening and would appreciate them, especially bright, vibrant colors. Those who wish may make memorial contributions are asked to consider LaGrave Ave Christian Reformed Church or the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary. 

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