Donald VanderKooy

Donald Jay VanderKooy, 86, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 28, 2026, leaving behind Mary Jo, his loving wife, and a life defined by faith, family, service, and an extraordinary capacity to care for others.

Don was born February 27, 1940, in Kalamazoo to Jacob and Gertrude (Van Someren) VanderKooy. He graduated from Calvin College and later earned his master's degree from the University of Michigan, preparing him for what would become his life's work: serving people, strengthening families, and making his community better.

On June 22, 1963, Don married the love of his life, Mary Jo Bonnema. Their high school romance continued through Calvin College and grew into a remarkable 63-year marriage. Together, they built a life centered on faith and family, filled with adventures, countless memories, and a love that endured through every season.

Of all the titles Don held, none meant more to him than husband, Dad, Grandpa, and most recently, Great-Grandpa. His family never had to wonder whether they mattered to him. Don showed up. He never missed his kids sporting events, concerts, his grandkids events and was present all the time. He listened, encouraged, supported, and never judged. He accepted people as they were and had a way of making those around him feel heard, valued, and cared for.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Gertrude VanderKooy; his brothers, Calvin (Marilyn) VanderKooy and Vernon (Nella Mae) VanderKooy; and his sister, Marjorie (Rud) Scheffers.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Jo (Bonnema) VanderKooy; his children, Steven (Katherine) VanderKooy and Julie (Daniel) Reisner; his grandchildren, Payton Reisner, Ashley VanderKooy, Samuel Reisner, and Aaron (Gennavieve) VanderKooy; and his brand-new great-granddaughter, Magdalene "Maggie" VanderKooy.

Don also knew how to enjoy life. He loved golfing, bowling, and camping with his family across the country. He proudly visited all fifty states, traveled internationally, and enjoyed four memorable family cruises. But given the choice, Don would almost always take the road trip over the airplane.

And then there was ice cream. Don never met many flavors he wasn't willing to try-a simple pleasure he never outgrew and one that will always bring a smile to those who loved him.

Don dedicated 37 years to Family & Children Services of Kalamazoo, serving as Chief Executive Officer from 1968 to 2005. His work helping children and families through adoption, foster care, family support, and crisis intervention was more than a career-it reflected who he was. He also served as an adjunct professor of social work at Western Michigan University, worked closely with United Way, and after retirement served as interim CEO of the Kalamazoo Community Foundation.

His commitment to his community continued through service on the boards of Kalamazoo Christian Schools and South Christian Schools and as an active member and council member of Southern Heights Christian Reformed Church. His faith was reflected not simply in what he believed, but in how he lived, loved, served, and treated others.

Don was also a proud veteran, serving in the United States Army and later in the Army Reserves.

Visitation will be held at Langeland Family Funeral Home, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street, Kalamazoo, on October 6, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. A funeral service celebrating Don's life will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m., with a luncheon afterward for family and friends. Don will be laid to rest at Fort Custer National Cemetery in a private family ceremony.

Don's legacy lives in the people whose lives he touched-the families he helped, the professionals he mentored, the friends he cared for, and the family he loved beyond measure. He showed us what it means to live with faith, lead with compassion, serve without seeking recognition, and simply be there for the people you love.

He was deeply loved. He will be deeply missed. And countless lives are better because Don VanderKooy was part of them.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Family & Children Services, Kalamazoo Christian Schools, or Southern Heights Christian Reformed Church.

Online condolences may be shared at www.langelands.com.

Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, Westside Chapel, is honored to care for the VanderKooy family.