Dawn Marie Sullivan

Dawn Marie Sullivan (VanderGeld), 66, passed away surrounded by family and friends on April 17, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and is now home in the everlasting arms of the Lord. 

Born on March 25, 1960, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Dawn lived a life centered around her faith and the people she loved most—her family. She had a strong personality, a deeply kind spirit, and a loving heart. 

Dawn welcomed everyone without judgment. No matter who you were or where you came from, you were always met with acceptance, warmth, and love. She had a gift for making people feel like they belonged. 

She showed up for her people when it mattered most. In moments of need, celebration, or hardship, Dawn was there—reliable, present, and fiercely devoted to those she cared about. She was an expert hugger; her embraces were warm, steady, and often exactly what was needed. 

Dawn was a pillar in her community. She worked as a special education aide in Caledonia, just another example of her immeasurable love and giving nature. She loved her Caledonia students immensely. She was also a devoted member of Banner Church, where she worshiped with her beloved church family. 

Her life was written in loving, consistent gestures—the kind that build trust and comfort without motive. She will be deeply missed by her family, church family, friends, and all who had the comfort and honor of knowing her love. 

Dawn is survived by her husband, Theodore Sullivan; her sons, Delano VanderGeld (Jennifer) and Keith Tuffelmire (Angie); her stepchildren, Christopher Sullivan and Christina Sullivan; her brothers, William VanderGeld (Sondra), Mark VanderGeld, Vince VanderGeld, and William Bauder; her sisters, Stacy Bauder, Nellidene Bauder, and Tammy VanderGeld; and her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her mother, Patricia E. Carillo; her father, Benardus VanderGeld; her brother, Benard VanderGeld; and her daughter-in-law, Moneeka VanderGeld. 

A funeral service and celebration of life will be held on May 9, 2026, at Banner Church, located at 1111 68th Street, Byron Center, Michigan 1pm visitation and 2pm service. Flowers in remembrance of Dawn are gratefully received and deeply appreciated. 

Dawn’s legacy lives on in her faith, the love she gave so freely, and the many lives she touched with her presence. Even in her earthly absence, she endures—woven into our memories and, for some, into the very fabric of our being.