Pamela Yvonne VanDam

Pamela Yvonne Van Dam passed away on June 5, 2025, at the age of 74 from complications related to Alzheimer’s disease. She grew up in Holland, Michigan, where she developed the strong roots that would guide her throughout her life.

A graduate of West Ottawa High School, she continued her education to earn an Associate's degree in Business, which served her well in her professional career at Holland Public Schools. From her earliest days, horses have held a special place in Pam’s heart. As a young person, she proudly showed her horse in Ottawa County 4-H. Her passion later expanded to Quarter and Buckskin horses, where she found joy attending horse shows and serving on association boards.

Over the years Pamela served as a dedicated 4-H leader, a Cub Scout leader, a Brownie leader, and coach of the Holland High School Equestrian Team. She enjoyed helping young people learn a new skill and sharing her love of horses where she could.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Yvonne Rhudy, father, Ted, sister and brother-in-law Linda and Len Jansen.

Pam is survived by her husband, Jerry Van Dam; her son, Reuben (Megan) Van Dam; her daughter, Adeline (Todd) Hambley; and her six grandchildren. Her spirit will continue to ride on in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.

Family and friends can join Pam's family for a celebration of life on Wednesday, June 18 from 5:00pm – 8:00pm at Brew Merchant in Holland, 442 Washington Ave, Holland, MI 49423.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Equine Advocates (https://www.equineadvocates.org/support/one-time-donation/) in her memory.