Sam passed away Monday, November 21, 2022 at his home in Kalamazoo.
Sam was born February 3, 1941 in Shelbyville, the son of Johanas “Joe” and Bertha (Scholten) Vander Ploeg. Sam worked as a lithographer at Battle Creek Litho for many years until his retirement in 1996. In his free time he enjoyed hunting, bowling, square dancing, traveling and spending the winters in Florida. On May 1, 1999 in Traverse City he married Norma James who survives.
Also surviving are his children, Kim (Craig) Reed and Tim (Jane) Vander Ploeg; grandchildren, Angela (Dan) Smith, Ashely Reed, Adam (Vanessa) Reed and Cody Vander Ploeg; 8 great-grandchildren and siblings, Shirley Knowlton, Alvin Vander Ploeg, Judy Oglesbee and Duane Vander Ploeg along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Jake Vander Ploeg, Cornie Vander Ploeg, Jerald Vander Ploeg, Alice Kraima, Josephine Vander Ploeg, Henry “Hank” Vander Ploeg and Bonnie Earl.
Friends may visit with Sam’s family starting at 12:00 P.M., Friday, November 25, 2022 at Grace Harbor Church in Kalamazoo, until the time of the funeral service at 1:00 P.M., with Pastor Bill Ferguson officiating.
A time of fellowship will follow.
Burial will take place at 3:30 P.M., at East Martin Cemetery.
Contributions in memory of Sam may be made to Grace Harbor Church in Kalamazoo.
Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.
Julie Alles
Norma I am so sorry about Sam’s passing rate of sympathy for you need us call us love you Julie Alles
Pat McGuire Miner
I’m truly sorry to hear of your loss. Sam was a great classmate of mine. I’m sure his memory will live long in his family and friends.
Judy Wheeler
So sorry to hear of Sam’s passing.
Gloria Shulin
OMS days were fun and I remember Sam from our square dancing days there. He was always very pleasant and fun.
Marilyn Rumney
My heartfelt sympathies go out to Norma for the Loss of Sam. Enjoyed their friendship and the many good times we had Square Dancing.
Ernie D
Sam was our dear friend. We loved him.
Fond memories of him rounding the corner of our 5th wheel saying ” is it coffee yet?….” You will be missed.
Ernie & Glenna DeRouchie
Mary A Scott
Norma, I am sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. Sam was a great guy. I thought of you two just the other day. My love and prayers are with you. Mary (Dale) Scott