Willard J. Van Van Singel

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 61 years, Jane; his sisters, Gladys Alles, Jeanette Elzinga and his brother Robert Van Singel.

Willard is survived by his children Karen Dan Van Zalen, Mary Tom Niewiek, John Linda Van Singel, Gordon Anne Van Singel; 12 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; his brothers Harris Connie Van Singel, Gordon Tena Van Singel; his sister-in-law Gertrude Russ Fifer. He is also survived by his loving wife Josephine DeJong Van Singel and enjoyed having a second family in the DeJong children.

Willard was born July 4, 1918, a child of The First World War, whose character was shaped by the Great Depression and by service to his country during The Second World War in the European Theatre. Willard was a son of Byron Center. He always had a strong desire to give back to his community. Willard joined the small staff of Byron Center State Bank in 1938. For 56 years as a community banker, he took great delight in helping local families and businesses get established and prosper. Due to his dedication and leadership, including decades as President, the bank grew from a three person office to a nationally recognized community bank. In his retirement years he continued to find opportunities to contribute to the development of his beloved community. He had the pleasure of watching the progression of the Van Singel Farms development. Willard and Jane donated property on which his alma mater, Byron Center High School, could build its new building; which, in turn, became a catalyst to upgrade facilities throughout the Byron Center School District.

We wish to express sincere appreciation to Willard's caregivers. The staff at Metro Health Hospital, especially ER and Level Four, expertly cared for Willard and his family. The staff at Railside Living Center readily welcomed him into their family and he often spoke of their kindness. And Mary Woltjer, with her tender devotion, has been a true blessing to Willard and Jo.

A time for relatives and friends to visit with Willard's family will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Cook Funeral Home in Byron Center, 2067 – 84th St. SW. Funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday at Heritage Christian Reformed Church, 3089 – 84th St. SW.

In honor of Willard, contributions may be made to South Christian High School or Byron Community Ministries.

The family welcomes memories and messages in their guestbook online at www.cookfuneralservices.com.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Visitation January 20, 2009 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM January 21, 2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM Cook Funeral & Cremation Services - Byron Center Chapel 2067 84th St. Byron Center, MI (616) 878-9744

Funeral Service January 22, 2009 11:00 AM Heritage Christian Reformed Church 3089 84th Street SW Byron Center, MI

Interment Thursday January 22 2009 Winchester Cemetery - Byron Center Byron Center, MI (616) 878-3428

Funeral Home Service Cook Funeral & Cremation Services - Byron Center Chapel 2067 84th St. SW Byron Center, MI 616-878--9744