Final Salute

Charles Albert Vanderlaan, 89, of Montague, passed away Friday, February 9, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his family.  He was born October 31, 1934, the son of Charles J. and Florence (Campbell) Vanderlaan.  He spent his youth in Muskegon.

Chuck proudly served our country in the United States Navy. After his military service he continued his education at Muskegon Community College and then received his Bachelors degree in teaching from Western Michigan University.  He taught for one year in AuClare, MI, before accepting his position at Montague High School in 1962.  During his 30 plus years at MHS, “Mr. V” taught Biology, Driver’s Ed, Adult Education two nights a week, and was instrumental in introducing computers into the classroom.  He also took pictures for the yearbook, was a class advisor, and a union rep for the teacher’s of Montague Area Public Schools. He was on the board of directors for the Teachers Credit Union and was a member of St. James Lutheran Church.  Chuck retired from Montague in the Spring of 1993.  That same year he took a position with Grand Valley State University as an instructor on the W.G. Jackson Water Research Vessel.  He worked for 19 more years doing what he loved.

Chuck was very passionate about the environment.  In October 2014, the EPA announced that the White Lake Area of Concern (AOC) was removed from the international list of Great Lakes AOC, following  successful restoration efforts.  He was very encouraged with this as he had been involved for years in this clean up effort.

He met his wife, Louise Olstrom, and they were married on February 14, 1959.   While Chuck was completing his education, they bought a mobile home that they moved to Kalamazoo, then to Benton Harbor, and finally to Whitehall.  In 1964, they bought their home on Fruitvale Road where they raised their four children surrounded by great neighbors.  Fruitvale Road was their home for the remainder of their years.

Chuck is survived by: his children, Eric (Vicki) Vanderlaan, Julie (Ray) Grow, Terri (Randy) Zeller, and Cassie (Todd) Batterbee; grandchildren, Travis (Emily) Vanderlaan, Michael (Hannah) Vanderlaan, Kyle (Laure) Grow, Kirt Grow, Chelsey (Joshua) Soderborg, Sean (Kaley Weaver) Zeller, Corey (Gillian Tate) Batterbee, Brandon (Aubrey Jenkins) Batterbee; great-grandchildren, Payton Parker, Liam, Wyatt, Gavin, Cameron, Laila, and Otto; sisters and brothers through marriage, Neil & Lynda, Bill & Anne,  Susi & John; nieces and nephews who knew him as Uncle Bud; and his best friend and constant companion, his loyal dog, Coco, who brought him great joy.

Chuck was proceeded in death by: his wife, Louise (Olstrom) Vanderlaan; his parents; and his in-laws, Wilmer and Ann Olstrom.

He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and dearly loved by his family.

Funeral services will held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at St. James Lutheran Church, 8945 Stebbins Street, Montague, MI 49437, with visitation taking place one hour prior to service at the church, with Pastor Mark Gilson presiding. Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Monday, February 12, 2024, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, 413 South Mears Avenue, Whitehall, MI 49461.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Muskegon Harbor Hospice https://harborhospicemi.org/ or St. James Lutheran Church.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com