Gloria Nellie Van Putten

Gloria Nellie VanPutten, age 88, while surrounded by her children, went to be with her Lord July 14, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Kenneth VanPutten; parents Frank and Jeanette Vereecken; and brothers Charles, Frank, and Richard Vereecken. She is survived by her four children Terri (Ernie) Skidmore, Mark (Kim) VanPutten, Michael (Leigh) VanPutten, and Steven VanPutten; eight grandchildren Steven Skidmore, Megan (Elliot) Repko, Kathleen (Josh) Kasnowicz, Amanda (Travis) Gregg, Joshua (Anna Hilton) VanPutten, Shawn (Kaitlyn) VanPutten, Connor VanPutten, and Austin (Seth Buit) VanPutten; 12 great-grandchildren Elise, Felicity, Bria, Axel, Titus, Zack, Chloe, Jett, Adelaide, Kollins, Addison, and Matthew; brother, John (Julie) Vereecken; and sisters Nancy Martin and Deloras McDonald; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and a special friend, Mary.

Born April 27, 1937, Gloria was one of seven siblings in a bustling and loving home. Her childhood was full of life, laughter, and animals. As a young woman, Gloria worked at American Seating where she met Ken, a young engineer who would become the love of her life. Their marriage lasted 67 years, until his passing last year. Together they raised four children: Terri, Mark, Michael, and Steven. Gloria poured her heart into motherhood, ensuring her family had a loving home. She expressed her creativity through painting and decorating cakes for every family celebration. She enjoyed transforming the house for each holiday and loved all babies and little children. Gloria’s faith in Jesus was the bedrock of her life. She studied her Bible, prayed diligently, and raised her children in that same belief. Even as years passed, Gloria’s zest for life never dulled. She rollerbladed, rode bikes, hiked, and stayed active in many ways. Her joy was contagious, her presence comforting, and her love unconditional. She leaves behind not only memories, but a legacy of faith, family, and of a life beautifully and fully lived. Gloria was loved and will be missed, but we rejoice in knowing that she is whole again and in the presence of the Savior she loved. We look forward to the day when we will see her again.

A celebration of life service will be held 12 p.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan 49418, with visitation prior to the service beginning at 11 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service. Gloria will be interred at Rosedale Memorial Park with her husband at a private family service. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.