Tom Vanden Elst

Tom Vanden Elst, age 74, of Kentwood, was called to his heavenly home on Wednesday, March 28, 2018.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecilia and Gerrit Vanden Elst.  He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of almost 50 years, Patty; daughters, Amy and Lisa Vanden Elst; grandsons, Adam and Aaron Gravelin; brother, Gary and Sally Vanden Elst; niece, Tammy Erksitz; and several cousins.  Tom was a loving, caring husband, father and grandfather.   Tom’s career as a buyer for Meijer, Inc. spanned 32 years and gave him and Patty many opportunities for travel.  He loved to travel to different countries such as France, Belgium, the Netherlands, China, Istanbul and many more to learn the culture and the people.  Tom served his country in the National Guard during the late 1960’s.  Funeral service will be held Wednesday 11:30 am at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Kentwood) 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, with Fr. Phil Shangraw officiating.   Relatives and friends may meet the family Wednesday from 10:00 am to 11:30 am at the funeral home.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the family or a charity of your choice.