Timothy VanderMey

Timothy Marc VanderMey, of Portage, MI passed away on October 9th, 2024, at the age of 69. He was born on May 18th, 1955, in Grand Rapids, MI, and was the son of Edward and Helene (Tanis) VanderMey. Timothy was not only known for his friendship, faith, and work ethic, but for his love of music and good times.

A graduate of Portage Northern High School in 1973, Timothy had also attended Kalamazoo Christian Schools from K-11 and adopted by the VanderMeys at 6 months of age. He retired from XL Machine Co. after 30 years.

Timothy was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his younger brother, Keith (Robin) Vander Mey, younger sister, Amy (Jim) Wallace, his three children, Joseph, Katherine, and David Vander Mey, and 5 biological grandchildren Luna, Jacob, Levi, Jaxsen, and Mariella with one granddaughter still on the way. Timothy always loved his blended family with a passion which included many stepchildren, step-grandchildren, and step-great grandchildren from his two marriages. They were all very dear to him.

Timothy has worked many jobs in his lifetime, making him a jack of all trades. His intelligence was admired by all who knew him. His sweet and caring demeanor gained the love of people young and old. He was driven by his faith and zest for life. Timothy loved to ride motorcycles any chance he got and collected many of them. He loved to travel the U.S. and internationally. Timothy picked up guitar at 12 years old and was always the musical life of the party. He was a man of many talents such as singing, playing guitar, mandolin, fiddle, banjo and was a member of many different bands. He would either show up on a Harley or with an instrument in hand, sometimes both. He also loved to play a good game of cribbage after a long night of drinks around the bonfire. He was also passionate about being outdoors, and especially loved camping, hunting and fishing locally and in Michigan’s upper peninsula.

He was a compassionate man who walked in faith. He would give the shirt off his back and the last dollar in his wallet to anyone in need. He sponsored children from foreign countries who did not have the means to buy basic supplies and always made sure the neighborhood children had a chance to attend church camp.

His energetic personality drew people in creating countless friendships that lasted a lifetime. If there was fun to be had or memories to be made, it was safe to count Tim in. Above all things, he was proudest of his family and enjoyed gatherings with his precious grandbabies. His family will miss his culinary expertise and his musical entertainment that he would graciously provide at each and every visit.

As family and friends gather to celebrate this remarkable life, they will carry forward the legacy of joy he instilled within them. His impact spans through his personal connections that enriched the lives of many. Timothy will be missed deeply and remembered forever.

Timothy has been cremated. There will be a celebration of life held at 328 W Milham Ave. Portage, MI 49024 on Sunday October 27th from 2pm-5pm. 

While visiting Timothy’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home; 5975 Lovers Lane in Portage 269 344-5600.