Kenneth VanEk Obituary

With a mix of sorrow and serenity, we announce the passing of Ken VanEk, who has found his final peace after 68 years of life. While we grieve our loss, we also take solace knowing he now rests in the presence of his Lord, whom he deeply loved and faithfully served.

Ken is reunited at the table of the Lord with his father (Howard), his younger brother (Vince), and his brother-in-law (Bob).

Ken's memory survives through his loving family: his children K.J., Evan, Caleb, Karina (Chad), Trevor, and Hannah, and their mother Fran, his grandchildren Misha and Genesis, his mother Lorna, his siblings Joyce (Don), Dee, Marvin (Shareen), and his spiritual family at Harvest OPC.

Professionally, Ken spent many years working in finance. He had a keen mind for numbers and brought a thoughtful, quiet diligence to his work.

Personally, Ken truly enjoyed a no frills lifestyle. He found happiness in simplicity… and the economic savings that came with it. Nothing better exemplifies this than his passion for cycling. Ken loved to routinely bike from Grand Rapids to Wayland to see his grandchildren, and to Sparta to visit his mother – enjoying the time he spent in the fresh air (while undoubtedly keeping a mental tally of all the gallons of gas he saved by biking instead of driving).

Though his relationships with his family were at times complicated, he always cared for us and held us close in his heart. He is remembered as someone who was unapologetically himself, comfortable in solitude, and deeply loving. Although he preferred the tranquility of an insulated life, he always found joy in the moments he spent with his children and grandchildren.

What defined Ken most, however, was his unwavering faith. He loved the Lord with all his heart, soul, and mind. He found purpose and peace in worship, prayer, and service. His spiritual devotion shaped the way he lived, and he remained steadfastly rooted in his beliefs until the very end. For him, nothing mattered more than praising God and striving to live a life that honored that calling. Though his path through life was not a straight line, he never strayed from his belief.

Ken's legacy is one of quiet devotion, spiritual depth, and a deep desire to walk in alignment with his faith. He now rests in peace, held in the eternal embrace of the One he loved most.

A memorial service will be held at Harvest OPC, located at 930 52nd St SW, Wyoming, MI 49509 on Monday, September 22nd at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon to follow.