Shirley Marie VanDerBos, age 90, passed away on December 7, 2022 surrounded by her family. She was born on September 22, 1932 in Grand Rapids. She graduated from South High School where she was a drum majorette.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years William VanDerBos in 2019; her sons William Charles and Steven Mark VanDerBos; her parents Charles & Winifred (Stacey) Knight; her brothers and sister. Shirley is survived by her daughter-in-law Theresa VanDerBos; daughter Barbara (Bruce) Groh; son James (Laura) VanDerBos; her grandchildren: Jason VanDerBos, Mollie (Mel) Drake, James (Macey) VanDerBos, David VanDerBos, Alicia Groh, and her great-grandchildren Joseph and Jessica VanDerBos.
She spent her career working for General Motors sewing upholstery. Her sewing skills transitioned easily into her love for crafting. She was a talented seamstress who enjoyed knitting and crocheting. She was a creative artist. Shirley was an avid bowler and golfer and was the head of many of her sport leagues.
Shirley and Bill loved the beach and water. They spent a lot of time on Lake Michigan where her mother owned a cottage, and then later they purchased their forever home on Bostwick Lake where they enjoyed raising their children, and lived for over 50 years. Family and friends were always welcome. Shirley was devoted to her family, and will be remembered for being a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.
After retiring, Shirley and Bill enjoyed their winters in the warmth of Sarasota, Florida. Shirley's retirement years were very active, spent golfing, bowling, organizing dinners, teaching crafts, making her famous pies, and volunteering her services at Butterworth Hospital. She will be missed.
Visitation will be held on Thursday December 15, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Reyers North Valley Chapel where the funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. Burial, next to her husband, will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Park.
Please consider a memorial contribution in Shirley’s name to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church or Alzheimer’s Association.
