Patricia Louise Vander Weide

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VANDER WEIDE (Vander Ven, Houlihan) Patricia (Pat) Louise

March 11, 1943 - June 2, 2021

Pat is no longer bound by her physical limitations and was able to walk unassisted to continue her walk of faith. Pat was married 52 years to her Red Hat Romeo, Robert (Bob) on March 12, 2018. We are so grateful to our dad for the care and assistance he provided for mom. Our parents taught us well and we are grateful they are together again. Beloved, devoted and proud mom to 5 K’s: Karen (Jeff) Lynema, Kevin (Sabrina), Kenny, Keith, Kim (Jamie) Karwowski; Grandma Pat to Justin, Alexis, Trevor, Jordan, Kaylee, Jared, Brady, Ryan and Gavin; great-grandma to Jackson.

Pat maintained a joyful spirit despite many years of chronic pain. She was a fierce advocate for those with different abilities. She rarely used the word disabled. Mom volunteered for numerous community, religious, and educational causes. She was very involved with dad for the retirees of UAW 167 and Region D. She served as the AARP Grand Rapids chapter president. Mom and dad enjoyed being part of the Grand Rapids Griffins booster club. She enjoyed working with VBS (Vacation Bible School) and SWIM (Summer Workshop in Ministries) through Ridgewood Christian Reformed Church. Mom and dad also helped on committees for Jenison Public Schools.

Pat enjoyed many years working as a receptionist/greeter in the office at Van Andel Arena. She would also occasionally usher. She worked in health care serving all ages in a variety of settings from Pine Rest Children’s Hospital to Waldon Woods to home health care and as a sitter in hospitals. She was a Jenison crossing guard. She had an in-home daycare. She provided loving care for Grandma Vander Ven in our home for 5 years. Mom and dad were avid fans of the Grand Rapids Griffins and enjoyed trips to AHL conventions. Pat attended Reformed Bible College and South Christian High School.

Mom and Dad enjoyed their table times at Marge’s Donut Den where the staff would have a cup of hot chocolate waiting. Pat was always an uncertified counselor, friend, and listening ear to everyone she met. She encouraged others, smiled often, had a wonderful laugh, giggle or grin and would almost always end conversations with “Love You”.

Our family thanks the staff at St. Ann’s Home for providing loving care, as well as, the doctors and staff that provided mom’s care over many years.

Isaiah 40:31 (NIV) but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Revelation 21:4 (NIV) He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.

Relatives and friends may meet the family at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr., on Friday, June 4, 5-8 pm and on Saturday from 10-11 am with a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 am. Please join the family after for refreshments.

Donations may be made to St. Ann’s or Ridgewood CRC Benevolence fund.