Richard C. Vandersluis

Richard (Rick) Cornelis Vandersluis, age 60, of Chicago, Illinois, left his earthly life on Monday, October 2nd, 2023. He died suddenly of a heart attack while biking. He is survived by his wife Megan Vandersluis (Bieritz), daughter Vivian Vandersluis, brother Bill Vandersluis (Kim), nieces Bethany Vandersluis-Johnston (Micah), Jenna Vandersluis-Hoogstra (David), Kendra Vandersluis-Kallemeyn (Craig), mother-in-law Joyce Bieritz, father-in-law Gary Bieritz (Deborah), brother-in-laws Blake Bieritz (Jillian) and Mark Owen, nephew Grey Bieritz and many great-niblings.

Rick was born in Chatham, Ontario, Canada on May 22, 1963. He grew up in a small Dutch community of post-World War II immigrants which included his grandparents and dozens of aunts, uncles, and cousins. His mother raised Rick and Bill after their father died at a young age. It was in this setting that he learned by example the principles of hard work, responsibility, moderation, and frugality.

After high school, Rick attended Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he studied hard (too hard he would tell you), was an outstanding goalie on the hockey team, and met many lifelong friends. He went on to earn an MBA degree in accounting and finance at Western Michigan University and was a licensed CPA.

Upon completing his education, Rick was able to stay in the United States by winning a green card lottery through the Department of Immigration. He spent much of his professional career working for Chase Bank where, most recently, he enjoyed the challenge and honor of managing, training, and mentoring underwriters. Rick sincerely cared for the lives of his coworkers. He participated in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives in the workplace, and mentored young professionals through the Fellowship Institute.

Rick met Megan in 2009, the second lottery win of his life. He fully embraced a new life with her in Chicago, quickly falling in love with the city’s busy and lively pulse and involving himself in positive community initiatives in their neighborhood.

Rick and Megan joyfully welcomed Vivian Cornelia in October of 2013. Rick was in awe of the daughter God provided him. He treasured his time with Vivian, spending hours exploring the city and ice skating with her, helping to coach her soccer team, and reading books together. As Rick grew into his family life, it was evident to all that knew him that he had gained and cultivated a true spirit of contentment. His role as a committed partner and father will have a lasting impact on the family.

Rick regularly expressed deep love for his extended family and friends. Throughout his life he cherished and sought out time to be present with them. He was a good listener, reflective, loyal, supportive, understanding, and adventurous. He loved to plan activities and trips and make memories. Biking and attending sporting events were some of his favorite experiences to share with family and friends. Great food, drink, laughter and meaningful discussions ensued, and Rick would always want to hear about the important things in his friends’ lives. Mealtimes included a blessing, and upon departures an “I love you, brother”.

Rick was profoundly and continually transformed by the love of God. He was committed to the work of the local church and faithfully gave of his time, talent and treasure to honor God and love people. His faith was central to how he lived his life. His level-headedness, kind spirit, and loving manner is a legacy that will live on and be greatly missed by those who knew him.

Rick was preceded in death by his father Cornelis (Case) Vandersluis, and his mother Saapke (Sally) Vandersluis.

The visitation and memorial service will be held at North Park Covenant Church, 5250 North Christiana Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, on Saturday, October 14th, 2023. Visitation will be held from 11:00 am- 12:30 pm CT, with the memorial service to follow from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm CT. All are invited to attend the reception following the memorial service (location to be announced).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider a donation to Potter's House Guatemala: www.pottershouse.org.gt/ or Together Chicago: www.togetherchicago.com/. Please indicate “In Memory of Rick Vandersluis” in the note section when submitting a donation.

To view livestream, visit live.npcovenant.org