Honoring Tradition.
Celebrating Life.
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Stephen VanderBos Jr.

June 29, 1990 - September 29, 2021
Grand Rapids, MI

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Visitation

Thursday, October 7, 2021
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM 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

Visitation

Thursday, October 7, 2021
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM 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

Visitation

Friday, October 8, 2021
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

Friday, October 8, 2021
11:00 AM EDT
Live Stream
Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes
Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel
2120 Lake Michigan Dr., N.W.
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
(616) 453-8263
Driving Directions

Flowers


Below is the contact information for a florist recommended by the funeral home.

Ball Park Floral
8 Valley Ave.
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
(616) 459-3409
Driving Directions
Web Site

Life Story / Obituary


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Wise beyond his years, Stephen James VanderBos Jr. was a beloved son, nephew, grandson, cousin, and friend to many. His charismatic personality could light up any room. Gone too soon, his brilliant sense of humor and easy going personality will be greatly missed.

On June 29 1990 Stephen James VanderBos Jr. began his life, the son of Stephen J VanderBos Sr. and Belinda M. Taggart. Stephen was a sweet baby boy and brought much happiness to them. Even an early age Stephen’s never ending smile could melt hearts. Stephen’s life started out on the NW side of Grand Rapids. His dad was a shipping manager for Nichols Plastics before working his way to become the plant manager for Williams Form Engineering in Comstock Park. His mom worked at Evergreen Lawn care. During that time Stephen was ironically bitten by a dog, giving him a scar on his lip just like his dad had gotten when he was younger. Stephen was proud to able to be a part of his parents wedding and looked very handsome in his tuxedo. When he was nearly eight years old, he was joined by his younger sister, Jordan, but sadly she later died as an infant.

Stephen was especially close with his cousins and formed close bonds with his grandparents and great-grandparent which affectionately called him Little Stephen. They made many happy memories together. Stephen especially looked forward to celebrating Christmas which was spent with family. Surrounded by people he loved, meant the most to him. Stephen enjoyed many lasting memories camping at Tyler Creek Campground. Stephen also took many trips as a family to Mackinac Island, Niagara Falls, Florida and Texas with his mom to visit his grandpa. Stephen also traveled to San Diego with his grandmother to visit special relatives. On each of these trips, Stephen enjoyed taking in the sights and exploring new areas. He loved each and every moment spent with his family and always looked back on these special times.

In 1998 Stephen’s family moved to the NE side of Grand Rapids where he attended Aberdeen Elementary and played football on the Creston High School team. In 2008, Stephen graduated from Creston High School. He followed in his dad’s footsteps landing a position with Williams Form Engineering. His strong work ethics and loyalty resulted in quickly being promoted to shipping and receiving manager. As a manager Stephen was well respected by his coworkers. He would always go the extra mile. He was proud to be able to purchase his first home, which was his grandmother’s house. And he was able purchase his very first brand new vehicle. He loved his independence and there was no greater satisfaction to him than being able to provide for himself.

Stephen had many special pastimes. He enjoyed the professional NFL teams and was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions. Season after season, win or lose, he was a loyal fan. Together Stephen and his dad attended several Lions games over the years. Stephen loved cooking and especially loved to try new and unique recipes in which he tried to get his mom to make .Some of his favorite dishes were Mexican, steak, crab legs, barbecue or anything spicy. When it came to eating out, Stephen loved take out from the Grilling Company. All in all, electronics were his favorite hobby. Stephen was extremely gifted with computers and typical of adults his age, he loved gaming.

Optimistic as well as outgoing, Stephen leaves behind a wonderful collection of happy memories and good times over the years. May his loved ones look back fondly on the imprint he left on their hearts and may his memories endure forever.

The service to remember and celebrate Stephen's life will be held on Friday, October 8, 2021 at 11:00 AM at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel (2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504) with Pastor Brett Boomsma officiating. Friends are invited to visit with his family from 2-4 and 5-7 PM on Thursday October 7, 2021 and at 10 AM until the time of the service on Friday. To share a memory or to sign his guestbook, visit www.heritagelifestory.com

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