Gary Stuart Van Dongen

Gary Stuart Van Dongen, age 81 of Zeeland, MI, passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2023 at Holland Hospital. He was born on August 13, 1941 in Muskegon, MI to the late Gerald and Elizabeth (Bosma) Van Dongen. Gary married Diane Frietchen on September 2, 1967 in Grand Haven. She preceded him in death on May 23, 2021 after 53 years of happy marriage.

Upon his graduation from high school, Gary proudly served his country in the US Navy from 1960 to 1964, during the end of the Vietnam War Era. Gary secured a position working for the State of Michigan Liquor Control Commission, which he did 21 years before his retirement in 1992. He later worked as a bus driver for the City of Grand Rapids.

Gary was a member of the American Legion, Charles A. Conklin Post 28, as well as A.A.R.P. He loved all sports, with golf and University of Michigan Football being among his favorites.

Gary is remembered and missed by his three brothers, Eugene (Barb) Van Dongen of Belmont, James (Deb) Van Dongen of Grand Rapids, and Charles (Dawn) Van Dongen of Muskegon; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Diane; sister, Dolores Van Dongen; and brother and sister-in-law, Wayne (Charlene) Van Dongen.

The Memorial Service for Diane and Gary will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 2, 2023 at Grand Haven Twp. Lakeshore Cemetery. Full Military Honors to be provided by the American Legion, Charles A. Conklin Post 28.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Gilda’s Club-Grand Rapids or Trinity Health Richard J. Lacks Cancer Center.

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