Stella May VanHeck, born June 28, 1932 to Loren and Effie Dickson, was called home to her Heavenly Father on April 23, 2022. She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Gerrit VanHeck; son, Timothy VanHeck; siblings Lorenzo (Juanita) Dickson, Orland “Red” Dickson, Carrie (Carl) Gleason, Pearl (Vernon) Bigger, Rudy (Rita) Dickson; and lovingly remembered by her daughter, Leela McMullen; son, David VanHeck; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and her special friend, Gene Garseau.
Stella was a generous, loving woman who enjoyed her church family, baking cookies, and the joy of sharing them with others so much that she was known as "The Cookie Lady." Stella will be remembered for her generous heart and vibrant, sassy personality, among other lovely qualities. She enjoyed her participation in the Wayland Garden Club and was impactful in the community with her work with 4-H, earning many awards over her years of service and volunteer work. During her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), she influenced countless lives with her loving heart. She always knew how to make people feel cherished and important, and she was an active social butterfly. Her smile was her crowning glory, consistently lighting up a room.
Stella's funeral will be held 1 p.m. Friday, April 29, 2022 at Calvary Church (304 S. Main St, Wayland, MI 49348), with a two hour visitation prior starting at 11 a.m. at the same location. In lieu of flowers, please make checks available to Wayland Area Ambulance or Calvary Church Youth Group. The family welcomes memories and messages online at www.kubiakcookwayland.com.
