Robert John VanderWeele

Robert VanderWeele, a devoted Christian, loving father and husband, died at the age of 84 on February 21, 2021, at home under hospice care. He was born March 11, 1936, in Kalamazoo, the son of Anthony and Grace (VerMeulen) VanderWeele. Bob was a 1954 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1955-1957. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from Western Michigan University, where he was a member of Delta Epsilon Fraternity. Bob married Mary Jane Messany on May 27, 1961 and they shared 68 wonderful years, until her death in 2019. They were members at Southridge Reformed Church, since 1966. Bob worked as an engineer in production at General Motors for 38 years. His family includes his children: Robert (Chris) VanderWeele and Robin (Wesley) Lentz; his grandchildren: Elena Lentz, Riley Lentz, Elijah Lentz, Marielle Lentz, Easton Lentz, Andrew VanderWeele, and Kyan VanderWeele; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Jane, his sisters: Elizabeth Koning, Marguerite Osterman, Eleanor Bussema, Carol Hamming, and Mary Jean "Mimi" Drenth. A private service with military honors will be held at Southridge Reformed Church, 6726 Texas Drive, Kalamazoo, with Pastor Mark Vanderson officiating. A private graveside service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be directed to the Alzheimer's Association. Please visit Bob's webpage for directions, online guest book or to leave a condolence. http://www.langelands.com