Howard Vander Poppen, age 85, passed away at home surrounded by family on Wednesday,
October 28, 2026.
Howard was born to Edwin and Geneva (Zoerhof) Vander Poppen on December 14, 1940. He graduated from Zeeland High School, class of 1959. He proudly served his country in the Army Reserves.
Howard was diagnosed with a brain tumor on September 16. He had surgery at Butterworth
Hospital and spent 15 days at Mary Free Bed before coming home.
Howard was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. His gentleness made him easy to
love, his sense of humor made him easy to be around, and his love of the Lord was evident.
Howard was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed hunting in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
since 1963, as well as locally. He also hunted in Idaho, Wyoming and Colorado. He and Carol
had been camping in the Upper Peninsula annually. Hutchins lake had been a favorite fishing
spot. He also liked driving his ’92 Camaro to fun spots around town and meeting friends for
coffee.
Howard retired from a career with Slickcraft and then Tiara Yachts, retiring in 2000 after 37
years.
He and Carol enjoyed traveling. Just last June visiting West Virginia, after touring many other
spots in the US including places in Alaska, Hawaii, France and the Netherlands. The Badlands
of South Dakota being a favorite. They also enjoyed a memorable work trip to Finland in 1969.
Howard was a member of Hamilton Reformed Church where he served as a deacon, elder, and
Kids Hope mentor.
He was preceded in death by his brother Delvin Vander Poppen; and sister, Shirley
Dangremond, both in 2021.
He is survived by his wife Carol Vander Poppen; daughter LeAnn and Brad Waide of Knoxville
Tennessee; son Ryan Vander Poppen; grandchildren Danny and Elizabeth Waide; brother Dale
and Carla Vander Poppen; brother Mark Vander Poppen; sister-in-law Mary Vander Poppen;
brother-in-law David Dangremond; sister-in-law Arla and Juergen Richter; brother-in-law Mark
and Devota Johnson; brother-in-law Ward and Wendy Johnson; and many nieces, nephews,
and extended family.
A committal service was held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, in Riverside Cemetery.
Visitation with the family is planned for 10:00-10:45 am on Friday, November 27, 2026, at Hamilton Reformed Church at 3554 M-40, Hamilton, MI 49419.
A memorial service is planned for 11:00 am that same day also at Hamilton Reformed Church with Rev. Ron Lugten officiating.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Kids Hope USA or audio Bibles for Mozambique at
Audio Scripture.
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