Theresa A. VandenBerg

Theresa A. VandenBerg, age 92 of Fremont, passed away Saturday, October 6, 2007 at the Newaygo Medical Care Facility in Fremont. Theresa was born on April 26, 1915 in Bay City, Michigan to Luther and Sara (Fase) Yakes and later graduated from Fremont High School in 1933. She met and married Arthur VandenBerg on June 29, 1935 in Fremont and they later moved to Muskegon. Art preceded her in death on April 27, 1978. Theresa and Art moved back to Fremont in 1950 where she was an active volunteer in the Fremont community for many years. She was a founding member of the Gray Ladies which started in 1955. She had been a American Red Cross Service Representative for over 55 years and served as the Red Cross Chapter President for 17 years where she assisted many military families and others in the community. Theresa also served as cafeteria director at the Fremont Public Schools from 1961 until her retirement in 1967 and was a former Girl Scout and Boy Scout Leader. Theresa was also a longtime member of the Church of the Living Christ in Fremont.

She is survived by her children, Robert (Trena) VandenBerg of Newaygo; Terry (Jill) VandenBerg of Fremont; Dixie Lee (Fred) Dawe of Fremont; 5 grandchildren; Troy (Michele) VandenBerg; Paige (Ray) Troyer; Quinn (Carrie) VandenBerg; Shannon (Peter) Shepphard; Thor (Kimberly) VandenBerg; 7 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur; her son, Kevin Mark VandenBerg on March 5, 1978; her sister, Dorothy Crankshaw; her brothers, Robert Yakes and Mathew Yakes.

VISITATION : Tuesday, October 9, 2007 from 5-8pm and Wednesday 1:30 – 2:30pm. FUNERAL SERVICES : Wednesday at 2:30pm at the Crandell Funeral Home – Fremont Chapel. INTERMENT : Maple Grove Cemetery. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS : Kevin M. VandenBerg Fund at the Fremont Church of the Living Christ. Friends may send a condolence or share a memory online at www.crandellfh.com. Arrangements by Crandell Funeral Home – Fremont Chapel.

Mrs. VandenBerg was a caring mother and mentor to all the friends of her children. She was outspoken and let you know if you were out of line. She was understanding when you needed some 'slack', but forceful and intimidating when you were wrong. She could remember you after 30 years without seeing you in between visits. She was a wonderful cook and shared everything with everyone who showed up at a mealtime. She was a great influence over many people who knew her and her family. She lived a long life and I'm sure that her family is very proud of what she gave to them all.

We were saddened by the news of Aunt Theresa's passing. However, we are very thankful for our time with her only a couple weeks ago during our visit in Michigan. She was so happy in her lovely new room at the Care Facility.
Our thoughts and prayers will be with your family in these difficult days. May God Bless you all and give you Peace!
Rowland & Shirley Crankshaw, Morris Plains, New Jersey

My heart & prayers are with you in the loss of Mom Theresa Vandenberg. It
hurts no matter how old they are. My recollection of Theresa & Art are
with my folks, Jim & Grace Bekkering. I know my mom appreciated her
friendship beyond words. I remember my folks going to, I believe, Alabama
visiting them. And then, to feel the pain of losing Kevin. Theresa was a
"mom" to many of us growing up. When that last parent is gone, memories
really become cherished. May our Lord Jesus be your strength going
forward. -In Christ's love, Jeanne

We are so sad to hear of Theresa's passing. She was a good heart and we enjoyed her telling us tales of the family events that happened in our house which was where she and the family lived many years. Sadly we never got the chance to give her the tour she wanted. We will remember her as a good neighbor and will keep her and all the Vandenberg family in our prayers through this time of loss.
Your neighbors, Francis & Lynn Stankus

I remember working with Theresa in scheduling blood drives and using the Career-Tech Center as one of her sites. What a joy she was to work with, and her enthusiasm was endless!!! I can only imagine how difficult it is to lose your mom, but I know you must have many wonderful memories. Hold on to them, and we’ll keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Holly Moon and Family