Mary Jane Vander Weide (1929-2018) was a founding member of the Zeeland Historical Society and the director of the museum for many years. She also served on the Board of Directors for the Society and was its long-time treasurer.
"She was so important to the museum, the Society, and the community for so many years. Through her work and her presence, we were represented throughout the County as a leader in the preservation field."
Mary Jane (Hall) Vander Weide, age 89, passed away on Friday, May 18, 2018.
Mary Jane worked fulltime her entire life and was employed by Sligh Furniture for 37 years. She loved history, was a founding member of the Zeeland Historical Society and served as its Director for many years. She loved Zeeland, was an active resident, and a lifetime member of Second Reformed Church. She was even the 1st place talent show winner in the dedication for Lawrence Park amphitheater when it was first constructed. Mary Jane was very artistic and enjoyed china painting. She was a loving mother and grandmother and will be missed.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jason Vander Weide; her brothers, Leslie Hall, Willis Hall; and sister, Leona Hall.
She is survived by her children, John & Jacqueline Vander Weide (South Bend, IN), Laura & John Evans (Ft. Lauderdale, FL); grandchildren, Jennifer Vander Weide, John & Melissa Vander Weide, Julia & Michael Baich, Kathryn Evans, Andrew Evans; great-grandsons, Peyton Vander Weide and Matthew Baker; sister, Dorothy Riggs; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services are at 11:00 am on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St. Zeeland, MI 49464. The family will be available at 10:00 am that day for anyone that would like to greet them prior to the funeral service.
Memorial contributions may be given in her honor to Second Reformed Church or the Zeeland Historical Society.
Burial to take place in Zeeland Cemetery.