William (Bill) Roy Vanderbilt, age 76, well-loved husband, father, grandfather, professor/coach, businessman, and community leader, died on Fri, Apr 15, 2016 surrounded by family.
He was born in Sheboygan, WI on Jul 15, 1939 to William and Mabel (Knuth) Vanderbilt. His early years were spent working in various family business, singing with his father, running from sport to sport, and creating life long friends. After graduating from Oostburg High School, Bill earned a bachelor’s degree from Hope College in 1961, at Hope College he participated in athletics, dreamed of becoming a teacher and coach, and met is first wife, Patricia (Winchester). Higher Education accomplishments include a master’s degree from University of Michigan in 1963 and a PhD from University of Utah in 1971. Bill returned to Hope College and became the Chairperson of the Department of Physical Education and Athletics, Professor, and Head Cross Country Coach. His runners remember Bill as an innovative, encouraging coach and mentor, in addition to being a lot of fun. After 21 years at Hope College, he left his alma mater to become a founding partner of Freedom Village retirement complex. There he hired a staff of some good people, who worked hard and laughed harder, as they brought Holland an outstanding facility where people continue to enjoy the “Best of Life for the Rest of their Life.” In 1994 Bill became the Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Holland and then the Zeeland Community Foundation. Under his leadership, the two foundations merged into one stronger unit which grew in assets to more than $25 million.
Life long passions that Bill continued to enjoy into retirement included golfing with buddies, singing in the Christ Memorial Deformed Church choir (where he was an active member), riding his bike, and spending time with family.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife of 37 years Patricia (Winchester) Vanderbilt.
His love, laughter, and hugs will be greatly missed by his wife of 12 years, children, step children, sisters, in laws, nieces, and nephews.
Visitation will be Fri, Apr 22, from 5 to 8pm at the Dykstra Funeral Home Mulder Chapel, 188 W 32nd St. A celebration of life service will be held at 11 am Sat, Apr 23 at Christ Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Rd., Holland, with Bill Boersma and Gary Matthews officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bill Vanderbilt Fund at the Community Foundation of the Holland/ Zeeland Area.