William Arends

William Arends, age 66, of Sparta, was called home to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 11, 2015. He was preceded in death by his brother and sisters: Bernie, Pat and Irene. He will be lovingly remembered by his children: Cassandra (Rob Egeler) Arends, Matthew Arends; longtime companion, Donna Berry and her children: Michelle (Brandon) Hyde, Nick (Natalie Funk) Berry and her grandchildren: Madelyn and Derek; brother and sister: Thomas (Barb) Arends, Sue (John) Nelson; sister-in-law: Pat Arends; very close friends: Ron and Mike; many nieces and nephews. Bill proudly served in the US Marine Corp during the Vietnam Era. He retired after 43 years from Keebler and served the union for many years and later as president. Known to many athletes as “Mr. A.”, and he was their #1 fan. Bill also enjoyed the outdoors with his dog, River. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday 11 am at Holy Redeemer, 2700 Baldwin St., Jenison, with Fr. Ronald Hutchinson Celebrant. Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday 2-4 and 6-8 pm at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville), 4145 Chicago Drive SW. A prayer vigil will be held at 6pm on Tuesday at the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Toys for Tots.