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Cindy Vander Meer

April 15, 1954 - October 19, 2017
Grand Rapids, MI

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Visitation

Wednesday, October 25, 2017
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM EDT
Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes
Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel
2120 Lake Michigan Dr., N.W.
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
(616) 453-8263
Driving Directions

Service

Wednesday, October 25, 2017
11:00 AM EDT
Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes
Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel
2120 Lake Michigan Dr., N.W.
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
(616) 453-8263
Driving Directions

Life Story / Obituary


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Throughout her entire life, Cindy Vander Meer maintained a certain quiet strength about her. She was never one to judge others, yet she was always willing to teach how to love one another. She was a firm believer in treating everyone equally, for she cared deeply about everyone around her. We will miss her admirable selflessness and her ability to soothe the sometimes harsh moments in life. She was a dear mother, grandmother, sister, niece, and friend to so many.

For her mother, Marilyn Vander Meer, life was changing because she was expecting her first precious baby. Cynthia was welcomed to Grand Rapids, Michigan on April 15, 1954.

Her mother worked hard to support her daughter while working as a secretary for Dr. Vander Molen. In 1961, Cindy helped welcome her little sister, Shari to the family. Despite the age gap, the girls had a strong bond that became even stronger in adulthood. Shari said, she not only had a sister, but a best friend. They lived in many places around Grand Rapids, sticking to the Westside. Many holidays were celebrated in these homes as well as their grandparents’ home.

Cindy graduated from Kenowa Hills High School, and took pride in being a Knight. Her health issues began quite early in life, as she had major back surgery before she graduated from school.

Not long after graduation, she married Dale Triplett. In the next four years, the two celebrated their growing family with three children; Brandon, Kyle, and Sara were born in 1975, 1976, and 1978 respectively.

Cindy was an amazing mother who nurtured her children with guidance and love. She was fortunate to stay home with them when they were young. As they grew, she was their constant source of unconditional love and encouragement. Being their biggest supporter, they knew that she would always want to know what they were up to and how she could help. If the kids weren’t feeling well, she was quick to make their favorite comfort food, grilled cheese and tomato soup. Cindy would watch MTV with the kids and enjoyed listening to their favorite music with them. Some of their best memories included trips to Grand Haven and the Big Lake. Holidays were a special time for Cindy too, as she would decorate to encourage the magical feeling of the season. She would proudly showcase all of the kids' homemade ornaments, faithfully bake delicious treats in the oven, and save up for months to put plenty of presents under the family Christmas tree.

Once the kids were older Cindy continued to be an active part in their lives, but she also obtained a position working as a paraprofessional in Lowell schools for 12 years followed by a job as an office manager for LaBoite Company.

Cindy cherished her relationships with loved ones, she treasured the thoughtful small gifts in life rather than material possessions. She was blessed with grandchildren, Bella and Keegan who expanded her ability to love even more fiercely.

As a tradition, whenever the kids were home to visit, she loved to share breakfast at any local diner. In her leisure time, she liked to relax with reading novels but also spending time with her lifelong friend, Mary Cheslek, who always held a special place in her heart.

She loved the companionship of her animals, among her most special were: Katie, Little Bit and Joey. She loved animals and would often leave shelters with one new pet, but wishing she could have taken them all.

Cindy's greatest gift was her character. She suffered throughout her life with various chronic health issues, yet she never complained and always remained positive and strong. Sadly, Cindy passed away on October 19, 2017. We will always remember her for her kind and gentle nature. She leaves behind a legacy for her unconditional ability to love and her ever generous ways. As we look to one another to find comfort in our shared grief, we will hold our memories of Cindy close. We will never forget her place in our lives.

Loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend passed away October 19, 2017. Cindy was born April 15, 1954, in Grand Rapids. She was preceded in death by her mother, Marilyn Vander Meer; and grandparents, Peter & Grace Vander Meer. Cindy is survived by her children, Brandon (Kristin) Triplett of Caledonia, Kyle (Kym Bernazky) Triplett of New York, NY, Sara (Erik) Maniccia of San Antonio, TX; grandchildren, Bella & Keegan; sister, Shari (Bryan) Johansen and their children, Megan & Jake all of Wyoming; and aunts & uncles, Peter & Sherry Vander Meer of Grand Rapids, Larry & Karen Vander Meer of Idaho; and special lifelong friend, Mary Cheslek. According to her wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 25 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW. Friends may visit with the family beginning at 10 AM.

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