Henry Allen Vroegindewey

He was born in Grand Rapids, MI on May 31, 1933 to the late Henry and Alta (Waite) Vroegindewey.

He is survived by his beloved wife Melva, daughter Janet (James) Sanders, son Richard Vroegindewey, daughter Sandra (Kevin) Dougherty, and daughter Nancy (Keith) Albrecht. As well as 5 grandchildren, Ted Hanson, Eric Hanson, Lauren Albrecht, Abigail Dougherty, and Austin Dougherty.

Henry was a member of Oakview Community Church for over 50 years where he served as an elder, deacon and Sunday school teacher. He graduated from Creston High School before attending Grand Rapids Junior College. He then served in the Marine Corp for 2 years including 1 year spent in Korea. After leaving the service, he attended the University of Michigan on the GI Bill.

Henry was a 4-H leader for all 4 of his children, as well as many Rockford area youth with the Rockford Rancheros. He enjoyed his hobby farm in the country where he raised goats, cows, pigs, and chickens along with a large and amazing garden. He took pleasure in making stained glass windows, including the beautiful windows at Oakview Community Church. He loved photography and would often be found with a camera around his neck.

He treasured his friendship with the Bible Study group from their years at Garfield Park Reformed Church. This amazing group of friends have been together for over 63 years.

Henry spent most of his working life in construction management and retired from Constructors Inc. at the age of 65. He spent his retirement years volunteering at North Kent Connect. He also traveled extensively with Melva and with good friends Ron and Sharon Beld. Highlights from those travels include: US National Parks, Europe, China, and Hong Kong as well as wintering in Wauchula, Florida. He also loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will take place on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 11:00am at Oakview Community Church, 4242 PLainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525.

Henry’s graveside service is forthcoming where he will be laid to rest at Fairplains Cemetery in Grand Rapids, MI.

Please consider donating in Henry’s memory to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Your support will help accelerate progress toward a cure for Parkinson’s disease.