Gilbert Gerrit Vanderlip

Vanderlip, Gilbert Gerrit Sr. Age 88 Of Kalamazoo Passed away Monday, June 28, 2010 at Rose Arbor Hospice Residence. Gilbert was born February 5, 1922 in Cleveland, OH, the son of Thomas and Jennie (Steenstra) Vanderlip. Gilbert was a tool and die maker before he moved to MI and attended Calvin College and Seminary. He graduated from Calvin Seminary in 1960 and served Christian Reformed churches in Lucas, MI and Kalamazoo, MI. His next career was VanDee puppets where he and his wife, Dolores, performed marionette puppet shows of classic fairly tales for elementary school children, finally retiring at the age of 82. Gilbert had been attending Reformed Baptist Church of Kalamazoo since May of 2008. Gilbert's surviving family include his wife Dolores (Schram) Vanderlip, his sister, Jean Herwerden, his children and stepchildren: Thomas (Barbara) Vanderlip; Gayle (John) DeRuiter; Gail (Jim) Brumfield; Gilbert, Jr. (Laurie) Vanderlip; Terri (Marc) Karns; Jennifer (Perry) Westerman. His 17 grandchildren: Michele (Bob) Lee; Carrie (Mark) Meyers; Tom (Debra) Schoonover; Barbara (Doug) Pine; Amy (Clayton) Keeler; Brenda (Todd) Duyser; Julie (Mark) Sigafoose; Cheryl ( Adam) Gerke; Kim (Lloyd) Duncan; David (Richelle) Dodde; Christopher Vanderlip; Stephen Vanderlip; Andrew Vanderlip; Lauren Westerman; Taylor Karns; Michelle Westerman; Rachel Karns. 31 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his former wife, Barbara (Nelson) Vanderlip, a granddaughter, Jennie Sue Dodde, great-granddaughter, Sarah Nichole Meyers, and great-grandson Jacob Allen Pine. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place through Avink Funeral Home Cremation Society of Schoolcraft. To leave a message for the family, please go to www.avinkcremation.com A Memorial service will be held at Reformed Baptist church of Kalamazoo (708 Nichols Rd) on Saturday, July 10, 2010 at 4 PM with Rev. Allan Kenitz officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Rose Arbor Hospice or the charity of your choice.