Gary D. Vandenberg

Gary Vandenberg, 70, of Cape Coral left his home and family suddenly on the last journey of his life Wednesday, April 10, 2013. He was born December 16th 1942 to Ruth and Dean Vandenberg in Battle Creek, MI

And as a young man, Gary was raised by his parents in the Christian Reform church and later went to college in Grand Rapids, MI studying engineering at Calvin College.

Gary is survived by his wife of 27 years Kathy; daughter Kirstin (Richie); grandchildren Matthew and Courtenay; son Ben (Tanya); grandchildren Jacqueline and Mason; stepson Darren (Carmen); grandchildren Michael and Kiera; brother Wayne (Sue); nephews Jason, Dan, Ben and Jon.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Craig and stepson Michael.

Gary had an adventurous soul. He loved traveling and with his career in construction supervision, it took him and Kathy to several places around the world, always ready for a new adventure. Gary liked to say that he failed at retirement many times as he had a difficult time saying no to a new offer in a mysterious far off place. When retirement finally set in, Gary was not happy to just sit around. He volunteered for different boards for the city. He was a police volunteer once a week at city hall, where he sat at the information desk with his buddy Rana. Recently Gary volunteered for the Seniors versus Crime position and he was really enjoying that. Gary was also the treasurer for the Cape Coral Irish American club. But the one thing that made Gary the happiest was having family and friends around. As Gary’s wife, there has never been a second that I doubted his love for me. As a husband, a father, a grandfather, a brother or a friend, you always knew that you count on Gary.

A gathering will be held on Sunday, April 14, 2013 at Coral Ridge Funeral Home at 11am with a memorial service to follow at 12pm. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Make a Wish Foundation.