Steve Curtis Vander Ploeg

Steve Curtis Vander Ploeg, born February 23, 1948, returned to the arms of Jesus on October 18, 2024 after a lingering illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Mark Vander Ploeg, brother Tom, and sisters-in-laws Doris and Mary VanderPloeg.

He is survived by his wife Mary, his high school sweetheart and wife of 56 years. Steve is also survived by six children he loved, and their families: Fr.Jon Vander Ploeg; Amy Demers, (Frank), Grace and Jacob; Melissa Fischer, (Brad) , Krystal, Leah, Josh (Leah Sarnicola),Ty, Hilary (Dustin VanKrimpen), Leo and Max; Jeff Vander Ploeg, (Lisa), Landon, Chloe, Olivia and Ashton; Luke Vander Ploeg; Matt Vander Ploeg, (Katie) and Mila. Also surviving are his brother Michael Vander Ploeg, his sisters and brothers- in-law Elizabeth and Stan Teliczan, Jim and Cindy Wheeler and several nieces and nephews.

Steve meticulously planned his career, completing a tool and die apprenticeship at Jarecki and working at Riviera Tool and Die, Walker Tool and Die, before retiring from Steelcase. Active in his Catholic Church community, he was pivotal in establishing a young couples group and worked with engaged couples through Marriage Encounter and FOCUS assessments.

Steve was an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion for over 40 years and was instrumental in the leadership of the local Charismatic Movement beginning in 1974, and later in Servants of the Lamb Community.

Steve valued his Church, family life and hard work. He was a great storyteller and had the ability to create a park wherever he lived. A self taught handyman, he could fix anything that needed repair and always had a spare part for any household crisis. Steve was a man who never complained- a blessing for 56 years of marriage- but complicated his treatment later in life.

A memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 24,2024 at Saint Thomas the Apostle Church, 1449 Wilcox Park Dr. SE, Rev. Jon Vander Ploeg presiding. Friends may visit the family Wednesday, Oct 23, 2024 from 4:00 -7:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m. Vigil Service at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield Ave NE, 49505.

The family sincerely thanks the Heartland Hospice staff for their many visits and unwavering kindness and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to God’s Kitchen or Heartland Hospice.