Vivian VanDis

Vivian Mary Van Dis, born March 3, 1926, age 99, passed into the arms of her faithful Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 23, 2026.

Vivian was a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo. She attended South Westnedge School and Old Central High School. Vivian graduated Western Michigan College and went on to work for the Graphic Arts Research Laboratories of Time, Inc. She met her future husband, Mel Van Dis, at Old Central High and cheered him on through his Bronco Basketball career. After WWII, Viv and Mel were married on August 27, 1948 and shared 67 cherished years together.

Vivian enjoyed life. As young girls, she and her sister, Virginia, loved music and tap dance. Vivian also enjoyed painting, bridge club, crossword puzzles, baking, golf and paddle tennis.

Vivian and Mel were longtime members of First Reformed Church where they served in many leading and teaching capacities. Vivian especially enjoyed singing and her bible study groups. They treasured being part of and serving the greater Kalamazoo Community where they built life-long friendships.

Vivian was a devoted wife, dear mom, "grammie," great-grandma, sister and friend. Her kind, generous and caring spirit touched the lives of many.

Vivian was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Melvin; son-in-law Robert Eichorn; brother, Harold Phillips; sister and brother-in-law Virginia and Delford Gronholz; and in-laws, Nancy and Claude Santinga.

Vivian will be lovingly remembered by her children, Patricia Eichorn, Jane (Jim) Karsh, Sarah (Craig) DeNooyer; her grandchildren, Annie (Bill) Cahill, Joe (Palmer) Karsh, Jessica (Brett) Dekkenga, Caroline (David) Bartels, Andrew (Samantha) DeNooyer; her 10 great-grands--with one on the way; and several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express their sincere thanks for the loving and patient care-givers of Meilland Square Memory Care at Heritage Community of Kalamazoo and Centrica Care Hospice. Their positive support for over 10 years has been a true gift for our family.

Even though dementia took away our dear mom, she continued to have a beautiful singing voice and Jesus' song in her heart.

Private interment will be at Ft. Custer National Cemetery on February 2, 2026, officiated by Centrica Chaplain Jeff Schmidt.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to Heritage Community Foundation, Centrica Care Navigators or Kalamazoo Christian Schools.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family visit https://www.langelands.com.