Rick Vander Veen

With a life that spanned times of grief and joy, times of plenty and want, all who knew Rick VanderVeen will certainly agree that he kept sight of what mattered most through it all. He was a constant source of strength, and he faced every obstacle that came his way with unwavering determination, always staying positive and grateful. Nothing made Rick happier than surrounding himself with his family and friends. His willingness to serve others made him a shining light in his church and his community. Deeply loved, Rick will be forever missed by those who knew him best.

Rick was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, welcomed by his overjoyed parents, Bill and Lucille VanderVeen. The youngest of the three VanderVeen children, he was raised in the family home on Graceland Street alongside his older siblings, Jacqueline and Randy. Rick’s father supported the family by working at Monarch Printing and as a salesman. Rick’s childhood was filled with countless fond memories. He enjoyed going to the Kent County Club to go sledding, and his dad even built an ice rink in their yard so they didn’t even have to leave home to have fun on the ice. As a boy, Rick loved playing with the neighborhood kids and riding his bike around town.

Due to his vision problems, Rick was declared legally blind, but he never let that hold him back. His mother, Lucille, helped him get into a special education classroom at Brookside Elementary. Rick later attended Riverside Middle School and then Creston High School, graduating in 1975. Following his graduation from Creston, he went on to pursue further education at Grand Rapids Junior College for the next two years. Rick was then able to attend Aquinas College and graduate with a degree in business. Again, his mother was devoted to helping him through college, reading materials to him and offering any support he needed.

It was while Rick was attending Grand Rapids Junior College that he began working there through the CETA program, beginning a long and fulfilling career. He eventually became the facilities manager of the Ford Field House for the college. Rick handled the scheduling and managing of events, helping set up and taking charge of all events that took place. His career was very important to him, and his strong work ethic was admired by many. Rick poured his heart and soul into every job until he retired at the age of 63.

Of all the things Rick loved in life, he cherished his family above all else. He was thrilled to become an uncle to his nieces and nephews, Lauren, Corie, Colbi, and Bradd. Rick doted on the kids and often picked out thoughtful gifts for each of them. He lived with his parents for his entire life, and he was always there for them until they both passed away. Rick then moved to a condo, where he lived until settling down in Storypoint Forest Hills for more support.

In his free time, Rick could often be found at his lifelong church home, Free Reformed Church. He had an eye for appliances and gadgets and enjoyed purchasing them from time to time. Rick loved walking around the neighborhood and getting to know the neighbors. No one was a stranger for long. He was also able to travel occasionally, attending conventions for work.

As we gather to look back on the life of Rick VanderVeen, it is easy to celebrate a man who lived each day with such contagious joy. Steadfast in his faith, he exemplified what it meant to follow faithfully after the Lord he loved so much. A beloved son, brother, and uncle, Rick always made sure to hold those his family close. His legacy is one of kindness and compassion, and he truly made the most of every blessing he was given. Although he is already so greatly missed, Rick leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will always keep near and dear to their hearts.

Rick W. VanderVeen entered the arms of his heavenly father on September 12, 2025.Rick was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Lucille VanderVeen. Surviving are his siblings: Jacquelyn and Bennett West, Randall and Carol VanderVeen; his nieces and nephew Lauren West, Corie and Colbi Dykhouse, and Bradd VanderVeen. Funeral services will be held Wednesday September 17, 2025 at 11 A.M. at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home Van Strien-Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield Ave, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Interment will be in Fairplains Cemetery. Rick’s family will meet with relatives and friends Wednesday September 17, 2025 at Heritage Life Story Funeral home Van Strien Creston Chapel 1833 Plainfield Ave N.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49505 from 10 A.M. to the start of the service, a small lunch will be served following this service. For those who wish, memorial contributions to Word and Deed or the American Cancer Society would be appreciated. To read more of Rick’s Life Story, share a memory or sign the online register book please visit www.heritagelifestory.com.