Del Wayne VanBruggen, Sr.

Del Wayne VanBruggen, Sr. of Otsego passed away on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at the age of 81. Del was born on May 15, 1942 to George and Irene (Miller) VanBruggen, both deceased, in Kalamazoo, MI.

He graduated from Comstock High School, where he was named as an honorable mention all-state basketball player. On February 10, 1962, he married Sharon Compton, his high school sweetheart. Del entered his career as a paper maker and quickly rose to superintendent of Georgia Pacific at a young age. He worked in the paper industry at various places until his retirement at age 65.

In his free time, he enjoyed socializing and golfing at Lake Doster Golf Club, fishing, and playing poker with his buddies. He cheerfully passed his knowledge and skills, as well as several of his hobbies, onto his family. Years of cherished family memories were made at Del and Sharon's home on Lake Doster before they relocated in their retirement. Del was a steadfast source of comfort and laughter even in difficult times. He was a great man and is already dearly missed by his many friends and family members.

Del is survived by his wife Sharon (Compton) VanBruggen, his sons Del (Tami) VanBruggen Jr., of Kalamazoo, Doug (Ly) VanBruggen of Mattawan, and Tim (Dawn) VanBruggen, of Hesperia, and a daughter Brenda Devine Tucker of Plainwell. Twelve grandchildren: Del VanBruggen III, Robert VanBruggen, Caley VanBruggen, Brook VanBruggen, Andrew VanBruggen, all of Kalamazoo, Kurk VanBruggen of Plainwell, Jake (Jamie) VanBruggen of Orangeville, Ellie VanBruggen of Richland, Darby Sayles, Joseph Devine, Daegen Devine, and Danika Devine, of Plainwell. Two brothers, Claude (Janet) VanBruggen of Kalamazoo, and Don (Sherry) VanBruggen of Hickory Corners, two sister-in-laws, Toni Compton and Louise Anson; as well as dozens of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law Clayton Compton, mother-in-law Sue Compton, and grandson Jay Sayles.

Per Del’s wishes, a celebration of life will take place in the Spring of 2024. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Dementia Society of America or the American Cancer Society.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Del's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The VanBruggen family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 120 South Woodhams, Plainwell, MI 49080 (269) 685-5881.