Barbara Vander Wal

Barbara Vander Wal, 81, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, May 8, 2019.  She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Robert Vander Wal, and two children, Randy Vander Wal and Jillon (Jill) Vander Wal.  Barbara taught private piano lessons for several years, having worked as a clerk in the drug store to earn money to buy her piano from a music store, where she would also play for customers in the front window.  Barbara earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and eventually her master’s degree in reading.  She taught at Grandville Christian Elementary School for 18 years where she specialized in teaching children to read.  She was also a long-term member of the chancel choir at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church.  Her contributions to the education of others and her musical talents will be missed.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, May 15, at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church, 107 LaGrave Ave., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, with Rev. John Steigenga officiating.  Interment Rest Lawn Memorial Park.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday, May 14, from 6-8 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, and also from 10-10:45 am prior to the service at church.