Gerald (Gerry) Albert VanderPlas, 70, passed away peacefully at Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI on Monday, August 26, 2024.
Gerry will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Donna Lutz VanderPlas; children, Ben VanderPlas (Alyson), Sara Keller (Joseph), and Jon VanderPlas (Meghan); siblings, Thomas VanderPlas (Ruth), Mary Jo Huntington (Bill), Patti Brown, and Cindy Taylor (Steve); 11 grandchildren; 22 nieces and nephews; his friends and family; and his loyal dog, Bella.
The son of William and Margaret (Scheibelhut) VanderPlas, Gerry was born in Pontiac, MI, and raised in Berkley, MI. An energetic youth with a beaming personality, Gerry moved to Southern California in his early twenties where he met his loving wife, Donna. They moved back to Michigan and married in 1980. After welcoming their children into the world at their first home in Rochester Hills, MI, Gerry and Donna later settled into Grand Rapids, MI in 1988. They raised their children with family at the heart of everything and Ben, Sara, and Jon are proud to carry that legacy forward.
Gerry was loved by everyone who knew him. His bright, charming, and outgoing demeanor brought smiles and laughter to all those in his presence. From serving as an active President of the Cascade Acres Homeowners Association, where he organized regular community building events, to hosting a large gathering of his closest friends and family at his house every Christmas Eve, Gerry knew exactly how to bring people together to enjoy life’s happiest moments. He was in his element on a golf course, a dance floor, in the great outdoors, or at home in front of a cozy fire. A loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, Gerry left a meaningful impression on so many and we are all better for it.
Gerry’s visitation and funeral service will be held at St. Robert of Newminster Parish (6477 Ada Dr SE, Ada, MI 49301) on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. The visitation will begin at 10:00 am, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
7 Responses
I extend my condolences to the family. Gerry was always so kind and happy to have around.
I am in total shock, even though you moved away a few years ago, Carlee and I always considered you to be dear friends. Donna, you and the kids will be in our thoughts and prayers. Jim
Gerry always had a smile on his face. He was a loving and caring husband, dad and grandpa.
He will be missed and may his memory be a blessing.
Love to Donna and his children and grandchildren.
Gerry and I went to Shrine High together and grew up in the same neighborhood. Haven’t seen Gerry in many years but always thought of him as a good friend. Have seen him on facebook looking great, his passing is a shock.
RIP
Gerry was so kind to everyone. We were “going steady” in 8th grade and people always thought we were siblings . Rest in peace Gerry and condolences to your family
To the Vanderplas family and extended family.
My deepest condolences for the loss of Gerry. I will always cherish the memories. Whether it was camping or a wedding, Gerry always brought the “life” to the party. Thank you for sharing him and always making me feel like “family”
My deepest love to all of you,
Vickie
Gerry and I grew up in Berkley, Mi as next-door neighbors. I haven’t seen him in many decades but I’ll never forget playing together all day long through our youth.
My prayers go out to his wife and family. His memory is truly a blessing to all who knew Gerry. He passed too soon but we’re never ready when God calls us home.