Gilbert Vandenbrink

Gilbert VandenBrink of Arlington, Texas, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on April 24, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on January 2, 1939, in Holland, Michigan, to Thomas and Frances (Vandegutche) VandenBrink.

Gilbert lived a life defined not by titles, but by the way he showed up for people. He spent many years working in the lumber industry before later becoming an over-the-road truck driver, a role that suited his steady nature and strong work ethic. In the mid-1990s, he made his home in Arlington, where he remained for the rest of his life.

To know Gil was to feel welcome. He never met a stranger, only people he had not yet had the chance to care for. You could expect a firm handshake and a genuine "have a good day," but if you were close to him, you were met with a hug and sent off the same way, always with a heartfelt "I love you." His generosity showed up in both the big and small moments. Whether it was helping remodel a kitchen, fixing something around the house, or simply changing a lightbulb, he was the first to step in. Doing for others was not an obligation to him, it was simply who he was.

He took pride in everything he did. From racing cars as a young man, to building a home for his family in Michigan, to the everyday responsibilities he carried with quiet dedication, Gil approached each task with care and intention. He made hard things feel manageable and gave his time freely, always with an open heart. While he was generous in so many ways, everyone knew one thing for certain: his garage was his domain.

Gilbert was also an avid NASCAR fan who loved following and attending races, often sharing that excitement with family and friends. It was one of the many simple joys that brought him happiness.

At the center of his life was his deep, unwavering love for his family. He was a devoted and caring partner to Betty Arnold, and a steady, loving presence to her children and grandchildren, who knew him as "Gee-pa." His pride in his family showed in the way he supported them, showed up for them, and spoke about them with love.

He is survived by his long-time companion, Betty Arnold; his children, Cindy (Brad) Dyksterhouse and Barb Erickson; his stepchildren, Linda Basch, Ellen Harris, and Mike Lang; his siblings, Audrey (Larry) Klynstra, Thomas VandenBrink, and Violet VanWingen; as well as 20 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Frances (Vandegutche) VandenBrink; his sister, Sandi Avery; his stepsons, Daniel Lang and Donald Lang; and numerous sons and daughters-in-law.

A celebration of Gilbert's life will be held at a later date, with details to be shared with family and friends.

Gilbert will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity, and the way he made people feel seen, cared for, and loved. The legacy he leaves is not only in the life he lived, but in the many lives he quietly lifted along the way.