Bruce Vanderweele

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Bruce, who departed this life on Jan. 19, 2026 in Surprise, AZ. Bruce was born on Jan. 15, 1953 to John and Ruth (Sootsman) VanderWeele in Kalamazoo, MI.

Bruce attended Parchment schools, where he participated in Boy Scouts and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. In High School he earned Varsity letters in basketball and tennis. He attended Michigan Technological University and became a Civil Engineer. In 1986 he opened his own firm, VanderWeele Design Consultants in Kalamazoo.

After graduating from MTU, he married his college sweetheart Denise “Dennie” (Morrill) VanderWeele. They resided in Kalamazoo for 47 years, raising four children: Kim (Jason) Mida, Brian (Briana) VanderWeele, Beth (Eric) Laninga, and Kristin (Michael Garth) Gower. He was a caring grandfather to Ella, Sam, Hayden, Ashton, CJ, Cody, and Eva. Always available, he touched each of his grandkids hearts as only he could.

His life was defined by quiet generosity, steady love, and a joyful blend of wisdom and wit. Bruce could be perceived as quiet and serious, and then his playful side would emerge at opportune moments, especially when he was spending time with loved ones and friends.

Bruce lived his Christian faith with a servant’s heart. Being active in his church, he served as a youth group leader, Deacon, Elder, and on many building committees. Additionally, he worked with Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners, a charity that processes surplus produce and feeds the hungry globally.

In his “retirement years”, Bruce continued to be active in the outdoors with family members and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his wife, children and grandchildren, Bruce is survived by his brother Paul (Barb) VanderWeele and sister Judy VanderWeele.

Join us for a Life Story Visitation on Friday, January 30, from 5-7 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 60280 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, where snacks and stories will be shared. A funeral service will be held Saturday, January 31, at 11 AM at The Bridge, 7200 Angling Road, Portage. A reception will follow at the church. Private burial. Celebrate Bruce’s life online by sharing stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial donations in honor of Bruce may be directed to the Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners at https://kalamazoogleaners.org