H. Dean VanderVeen

Rev. H. Dean VanderVeen of Birch Run, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully in his sleep with his family by his side on Wednesday, December 15, 2021, at his home. He was 93 years old. Dean VanderVeen was born on August 15, 1928, in Alma, Michigan, to the late Joe and Althea (DeCamp) VanderVeen. He was a graduate of St. Louis High School. Following graduation, he attended college to become a licensed barber. Dean also attended Owosso Bible College and became an ordained elder in the United Brethren in Christ. He married the love of his life, Annabelle Strouse, on August 12, 1951, by his father, Joe VanderVeen, in Clare, Michigan, at the Colonville Church of God. Dean was the founder of Calvary Community Church in 1971; faithfully serving until 1992. Following his retirement, Dean barbered for several nursing homes. Dean enjoyed fishing and the peace and tranquility it brought to his life. He left his indelible mark in this world for being a devoted Christian and minister, his kindness and selflessness toward his family and the church, and for being a funny, wonderful, and loving soul.

Surviving are his wife, Annabelle VanderVeen of Birch Run; three children: Robin Lynn Tyndall of Saginaw; Gary Dean (Margarite) VanderVeen of Harrison; Deanne Rae VanderVeen of Birch Run; 10 grandchildren: Joshua, Christopher, Stephanie (Mark), Tucker (Rachel), Marsha, Justin (Maria), Jason (Heather), Chad (Angie), Jamie, and Tim (Pam); 21great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Jim Tyndall; brother, Glenn VanderVeen; two sisters: Joyce and Betty.

A funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 18, 2021, at Calvary Community Church, 2895 E. Moore Road. Dean's son, Rev. Gary VanderVeen and Rev. Ted Doolittle will officiate. Burial will follow at Cook Cemetery in Taymouth Township. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Calvary Community Church. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the church or through www.casefuneralhome.com.