Albert VanderVeen

Albert William "Al" VanderVeen, age 91 of Portage, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026. A lifelong resident of the area, Al was born on January 17, 1935, in Kalamazoo to Antoon and Bernice VanderVeen.

Al grew up along West Lake in Portage and graduated from Portage High School in 1953. During his high school years, he was an active athlete, participating in baseball, football, basketball, and track and field. It was also during this time that he met his high school sweetheart, Margaret "Rusty" Fletcher and they were married on July 12, 1957, and raised four sons together.

Al built a long and respected career as an electrician at Eckrich, where he was known for his dedication and skill. Outside of work, Al found great joy in the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who cherished time spent at the family cabin up north. Al took great pride in coaching his sons' Little League and Rocket Football teams. His involvement extended to other Portage Central High School sports as well, where he supported his sons' athletic pursuits with enthusiasm and care.

Al's legacy continues through his children Cary (Lynda) VanderVeen, Eric VanderVeen, Alex (Sara) VanderVeen, and Andrew VanderVeen; grandchildren Aaron (Laura) VanderVeen, Shawna (Matt) Clauser, Alex VanderVeen, Evan VanderVeen, Lee VanderVeen, Sullivan VanderVeen, Mei VanderVeen, Mia (Orion Spragg) VanderVeen, Grace VanderVeen, and Gwen VanderVeen; four great-grandchildren, and sister Betty Jene Peltz

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Margaret "Rusty" VanderVeen; his parents Antoon and Bernice; and siblings Herm and Laurie.

A memorial gathering will be held at Langeland Family Funeral Home 411 East Centre Ave. Portage, MI 49002 on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 1 to 3 pm.