Theodore “Ted” VanderPloeg

Theodore “Ted” S. VanderPloeg, age 84, of Grandville, went to be with his Lord on Friday, July 31, 2015. He taught Industrial Arts at Grandville High School and Driver’s Education for over 30 years. Ted also proudly served his country in the Air Force during the Korean War. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, David and Lori VanderPloeg, John and Judy VanderPloeg, Laura and Brian Nielsen, Mary and Brian Matthiessen; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Randy, Karyn, and Alexandra VanderPloeg, Jonathan Nielsen, Hunter Wilbur, Andrew, and Sara Matthiessen; and sister, Grace Brower. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday 11 AM at Grandville United Methodist Church, 3140 Wilson Avenue SW, Grandville, with Rev. Tom Pier Fitzgerald officiating. Interment Floral View Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Wednesday from 9:30-11:00 AM at the church prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Grandville United Methodist Church.

Leave Your Tribute Message

August 05, 2015

My condolences and prayers to Mr. VanderPloeg's family. He was one of my favorite teachers in high school. Some of my best memories of school were in his class and in the parking lot for driver's education. May he rest in peace.

- Walter Bobeldyke

August 05, 2015

On behalf of American House we want to convey our deepest sympathy to you in the loss of your Father. We want to thank you for the privilege of caring for him. May God bless and comfort you as you grieve.

- Julie Ann Mesman

August 04, 2015

I only knew Ted for a short time, through the Historical Commission, but he was always very kind and supportive of everyone. I am honored to have known him.

- Melissa Carlon

August 04, 2015

I am truly sorry for the loss of Ted. I really enjoyed seeing him singing in the hallways at American House Assisted Living. My prayers go out to the VanderPloeg family. Leonore Nufrio, housekeeper at American House

- Lenore Nufrio

August 03, 2015

It was great to share time with Ted at Jon's football games. He was such a trooper through the cold. I liked his dry humor and the candy he always had. I'm so sorry for your loss. Marilyn Nielsen

- Marilyn Nielsen

August 03, 2015

To the family of Mr. VanderPloeg, you have my heartfelt condolences. He was one of my favorite teachers in High School. Shop class wouldn't have been the same without him. The first day of the Blizzard of 1978, I unfortunately cut my finger off while in his class. When I brought it to his attention, he told me to quit goofing off and go back to work. (He knew me well...sigh) Once I showed him the blood squirting from my hand, he sprung into action. Got me to the sink, washed it off so he could see how badly it was damaged, wrapped it with paper towel, and got me to the nurses office just in time for me to pass out. I will never forget him and the fun we all had in his class or just passing him in the hallway. Always made us smile and laugh! Thank you for making my childhood memories last, Mr. VanderPloeg. You were a positive influence on every student you taught and will always be remembered as a great man! Rest In Peace.

- Mike Thompson

August 02, 2015

My condolences and prayers for the loss of Mr. VanderPloeg. He taught me how to drive, and I have never forgotten how he taught - with passion and care.

- Shawn Gurk

August 02, 2015

I am truly sorry to hear of the loss of Mr. VanderPloeg. He was the best driver's ed. teacher anyone could ask for. Thirty years later, I can still remember our sessions together. He even taught us how to go through the drive-thru at McDonald's. He was also the one who helped my brother graduate when he had troubles with one of his classes. Please accept my condolences.

- Kim Johnson Blovits