Wayne Van Weelden

Wayne Van Weelden was called by the Lord on Friday, November 6. He was 98 1/2 years old. He was determined to make 100 and he was so close.

Born in May 1928 in Kalamazoo, Michigan as an only child of his loving parents, Cora Boot-Van Weelden and Paul Van Weelden. As an only child, he spent most of his formative years with many friends playing any sport as it came along. His great love of all sports, but an avid player of basketball, softball, and tennis, kept him busy through his formative and high school years. There wasn’t a sport Wayne didn’t try nor didn’t play and didn’t love.

Wayne attended Western Michigan University(Western Michigan College) studying Business Administration. His time at college was halted as he was called into service in 1950 to assist the United States in the Korean War. Just before leaving,he married his greatest love, Beatrice (Bea) Brown, in Georgia. He kissed her goodbye and went off to war. On his return and for the next 75+ years, he loved and adored this woman with all he had. They led a healthy, wonderful life in Portage, Michigan. He enjoyed living and boating on Long Lake, then Austin Lake. He also enjoyed boating on Lake Michigan. Wayne and Bea were active members of North Park Reformed Church, Kalamazoo, since the 1960s. They were active in the church in many areas and events. Wayne was the coach for the men’s softball league for many years.

They raised three adoring children. Their first child, Dennis Van Weelden and spouse, Pamela Drenth, Portage MI, both preceded in death. Their son, and Wayne‘s grandson, Jeremy, was able to spend time with them in their later years. Wayne also had two strong and loving daughters. Daughter, Cindy Boven and spouse Brad Boven, Pensacola, Florida, with their four children/grandchildren, Matt, Justin, Chris, and Andy Boven. These four grandsons gave Wayne a run for his money playing sports as they grew. Daughter, Linda Moed -Van Weelden and Life-mate Tom Smith, Burnsville, NC (Western North Carolina) with her three children/grandchildren; Tiffany Sullivan, Jordan Moed, and Kelly Griffin. Wayne is also blessed with seven great - grandchildren; four granddaughters and two grandsons who will continue to be his legacy.

Wayne was employed by the KVP/Brown Company/Three Rivers Corporation, Parchment, for most of his entire successful career as a Sales Manager. He then spent the next 36 healthy years enjoying retirement with his wife Bea.

During their retirement, they were able to enjoy many cruises and “snowbirding” at their condo in Bonita Springs, Florida. There they were able to enjoy life with many old and new friends, and family. There, Wayne became an avid Pickleball player. Wayne and his wife Bea,were able to have an amazing retirement and time together. So few can cherish and enjoy such a span of time.

Bea and Family will be celebrating Wayne‘s life and meeting with the Lord Wednesday, November 18 at Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Plainwell, Michigan, 120 South Woodhams St, beginning at 10:15am - 12:15pm. The procession with Wayne being laid to rest will follow at East Cooper Township Cemetery. Pastor Paul Fazio, North Park Reformed Church will be officiating.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Wayne’s guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Van Weelden family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 120 South Woodhams Street, Plainwell, MI 49080. 269-685-5881.