Joseph "Joe" Chester VanderLaan

Joseph “Joe” Chester VanderLaan, age 68 of Holton & formerly of Fremont, went to be with his Lord and Savior unexpectedly on Friday afternoon, June 27, 2025.  He was born on April 25, 1957 in Muskegon, Michigan to Forrest & Helen (Jazdzyk) VanderLaan.  Joe grew up in Fruitport where he was active in sports and graduated from Fruitport High in 1975.  He had been a Corrections Officer for the State of Michigan for 28 years until his retirement.  After his retirement Joe had several other jobs, including working for NCRESA.  He attended Blue Lake Community Church, and he enjoyed being outdoors; from taking care of the yard, camping, boating, riding side by sides.  He loved staying active and spending time with family and friends. Joe was known to joke around a lot, always playing pranks on others.  Joe is survived by his wife Vickie, who he married on May 27, 1995; 4 children:  Jason (Mona) VanderLaan of Springfield, Virginia, Elizabeth (Ken) Johnson of Twin Lake, Kevin (Kristi Winslow) Panyard of Greenville, Colleen (Jacob) Copley of Tipp City, Ohio; 8 grandchildren & 1 great-grandson.  He is also survived by 2 brothers, Jim VanderLaan & John VanderLaan; 1 sister, Debbie (Bill) Terpstra; and by many nieces & nephews.  Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest & Helen VanderLaan.  According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be a time of visiting with the family from 9-11 AM on Saturday July 5, 2025 at Blue Lake Community Church, followed by a celebration of Joe’s life at 11 AM with Pastor Kevin Pycraft officiating, and lunch afterwards. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given to Blue Lake Community Church, or to Hand2Hand at Holton Public Schools.  You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com.  Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont.

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