John Egbert VanderWal

VanderWal, John E. John Egbert VanderWal, age 62, of Byron Center, was surrounded by his family as he peacefully entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on November 1, 2014.  He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jan, of 40 years.  All who witnessed their relationship knew they were the love of each other’s lives.  John was born on October 29, 1952 to John Sterling and Margie Ann VanderWal.  John is survived by his children, Jenifer (Joel) Fields, J.R. (Rachel) VanderWal, J.D. (Heather) VanderWal; his seven beautiful grandchildren, Wesley, Ashlie and Casey Fields, Emma and Henry VanderWal, Keira and Braya VanderWal; sister, Marie (Scott) Andrews; brother, Don (Phyllis) VanderWal; parents-in-law, Robert (Mary Ann) Mulder;  brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dann (Michelle) Mulder, Mark (Virginia) Mulder; several nieces and nephews.  John was a respected business owner in the Hudsonville community, having started his own business, Reefer Service, Inc. in 1982.  He was highly admired by his employees and adored by all who knew him.  John loved his country and as a Vietnam Veteran served in the US Army from 1971-1973.  John’s smile and laughter were contagious and the twinkle in his eye will never be forgotten.  Funeral services will be held on Thursday 11 am at Jamestown Baptist Church, 2472 Quincy St., Hudsonville with Rev. Shawn DeJong officiating.  Interment Winchester Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday from 6-9 and Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 pm at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW.  In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to Life Matters, Wounded Warrior Project or Transport for Christ.