Matthew Vanderwood

Matthew William Vanderwood, age 46, was swept into the arms of Jesus, his Lord and Savior, Saturday, November 13, 2021. Matt was preceded in death by his grandparents. He will be lovingly remembered by ex-wife and mother of his children, Maria Beard-Vanderwood; children Alexander (Jenna) and Molly Vanderwood; parents Kent and Beverly Vanderwood; brothers Bryan, Timothy, and Bradley Vanderwood; nieces Vayda and Marley Vanderwood; and all his aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Matt graduated from Tri-unity Christian School and lived in West Michigan his entire life, where he worked various jobs in the construction trades. He loved nature and being outdoors; he was drawn to woods, beaches, streams, rocks, trees, and clouds. He saw his God in nature. He loved camping with his brothers and children. He loved to golf. He also loved his family and being together for holidays or just hanging out, watching sports with his dad and brothers or playing cards. Matt was a real “people person;” he could talk at length with anyone, even strangers he met for the first time. His optimism and enthusiasm for life will be sorely missed.

Please celebrate the life of Matt Vanderwood with his family and friends at a Memorial Service 4 p.m. Sunday, November 28, 2021 at River of God Church, 4607 68th Street, Byron Center, MI 49315; the service will be followed by a time of fellowship and a meal. Matt’s friends, James Ruark and Dave Dishaw, will be officiating. In honor of Matt and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to help his children with their education, housing, and other needs as they move into adulthood; donations may be made out to River of God Church as they have established a fund in the children's names. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.