James M. (Jim) Vander Ark

JAMES M. VANDER ARK (Jim), Age 75 of Central Lake, MI., passed away peacefully at home on August 25, 2022. He was surrounded by those who cared for and loved him during the last few years while he drifted slowly away in mind and body. He was born on December 27, 1946, in Worthington, MN to Reverend Clifford and Geneva (Klooster) Vander Ark, both preceding him in death. Growing up as a ‘preacher’s kid’ meant moving to different Christian Reformed Churches in Iowa, Washington, Wisconsin, and Michigan. As an adult, he resided in Holland, MI, Grand Rapids, MI, and his favorite place on the shores of Torch Lake in Central Lake, MI.

Born prematurely and having polio as a young boy taught him to be fiercely independent, private, and self-sufficient. These attributes contributed to his professional success in the automotive leasing business, Vander Ark Leasing, and owning a variety of rental properties. In addition to enthusiastically cheering for the University of Michigan and Green Bay Packer football teams – “Go Blue!”, he enjoyed cooking, golfing, fishing, boating, traveling, singing, and anything social. He will be remembered by many for his sense of humor and infectious laughter. He held firm to his faith and belief in the Lord God Almighty throughout his lifetime and was attending Community Reformed Church in Charlevoix, MI.

He is remembered and survived by his daughters, Tamara (Bob) Vander Ark-Potter (Grand Haven, MI), and Michelle (Chad) Hoffman (Holland, MI). His grandchildren, Alexander, Jagger, and Gabrielle Hoffman. His brothers, Corwin (Marilyn) Vander Ark (Fox Lake, WI), and Clifton (Nancy) Vander Ark (Tucson, AZ). Several nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be held at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St. Holland on Wednesday, August 31, from 5 pm-7 pm. A private family service will be held on Thursday, September 1, 2022. Burial will be in Overisel Cemetery. Memorial and tribute contributions may be made to Calvin College (https://connect.calvin.edu/giving/give-to-calvin , James Vander Ark Scholarship) or Hospice of Michigan https://www.hom.org/donations/ . To leave condolence and more information, please visit www.langelandsterenberg.com.