Alvin (Al) Raymond VanderWoude, 87, of Grant and Newaygo, died Thursday, Oct. 5.

He was born in Martin on May 21, 1930, to Samuel and Elsie (Stiemsma) VanderWoude. Al was a well respected, long time cement contractor and owner of Newaygo Wood Stove and Fireplace Shop and of Jensen’s Flowers and Gifts with his wife Marilyn for many years. He enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, fishing and playing shuffle board.

Al is survived by his wife Marilyn VanderWoude who he married Oct. 2, 1953; their children, Rick (Katherine) VanderWoude, Scott (Karen) VanderWoude, BrianVanderWoude, son-in-law Ken Kruithoff, 9 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and mother-in-law, Jean Sheldon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Debra Lynn Kruithoff, siblings Richard, Ruby, Josephine and Bea. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8, and Monday, Oct. 9, and one hour prior to the service on Monday at Grant Christian Reformed Church. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 9, at the Grant Christian Reformed Church with Pastor Ben McKnight, officiating.

Memorials are suggested to the Grant Christian School or American Cancer Society.

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