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George Van Zwalenberg

August 7, 1930 - January 28, 2022
Grand Rapids, MI

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George Van Zwalenberg, born September 7, 1930 in the Oldebroek, Netherlands, passed away on January 28, 2022.

He is preceded in death by his wife Shirley Dunk Van Zwalenberg, father John Van Zwaluwenburg, mother Aaltje De Leeuw Van Zwaluwenburg, stepmother Louise Unema Van Zwaluwenburg, and sisters Jenny (Severn) Dole and Lucy Van Zwaluwenburg.

In 1947 his father and uncle and families immigrated to California where he worked on a ranch and went to high school. He studied mathematics at Calvin College, the University of Florida, and the University of California at Berkeley where he received his PH.D. He taught at several universities but mainly at Calvin College from which he retired in 1999. He served as department head at the Egyptian Air Force Academy in Bilbeis, Egypt from 1986-1988. He was active and served as an officer at the Michigan Section of the Mathematical Association of America.

He was grateful for the opportunities available to receive an education in this country and to achieve the position of professor of mathematics. He enjoyed the exchange with young people regarding mathematics.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren:

Alisa (Rick) Anderson, Amanda, Eric; Doreen (Dave) Kresnak, Chad, Katie, Becky; John (Vicky) Van Zalen, Jake, Ryan; and 18 great grandchildren. Stepchildren: Randy (Pat) Dunk, Alex, Parker, Riley; Sheila (Sam) Mulliken, Tyler, Hunter; Scott (Traci) Dunk, Spencer, Cristen, Ben. He is also survived by his brother John (Sharon) Van Zwaluwenburg of Manteca, California.

At George’s request, cremation has taken place. Memorial service details will be available at a later date.