Vernon Zuverink, of Oakland Park, Florida, passed away unexpectedly at his home on his 83rd birthday on September 9, 2014. He was born September 9, 1931, to George and Jennie Zuverink in Holland, and was raised as the youngest of seven children. He graduated from Holland High School Class of 1949. He married his wife of 62 years, Ina May Hamm, on December 26, 1951, and she survives him.

He is also survived by his son, Mark Zuverink (Maurine); daughter, Mari Aker (Bret); his grandchildren, Sara Brant (Gerald), Laura Aker Reece (Jason), Noah Aker (Beth), Tyler Zuverink and Ashley Rushin; his four great-grandchildren, Lanie and Kyle Brant, Parker Reece and Alexandria Wood; his brother, Gordon Zuverink (Mary); and his sister, Bernice Dokter (Henry); several beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Alyce Maatman (Lloyd), Agnes Norman; and his brothers, Ben Zuverink (Evelyn) and George Zuverink (Betty).

Vernon served in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps from 1951-1954, as a Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Officer during the Korean War. He was discharged in San Francisco, California. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Hope College in 1958, and a Master of Arts from Michigan State University in 1964.

He was a committed teacher and Athletic Director for the school system in Grand Haven from 1958-1988, where he coached basketball.

Vernon loved spending time with his family. He also enjoyed traveling, gardening, was an avid golfer until weeks before his death. He loved watching all sports (both live and on TV). Always generous, willing to volunteer, and eager to smile and laugh, he brought joy to everyone around him.

The memorial service is Sunday, September 14, at 1 p.m. at his home church, First Christian Church of Wilton Manors, Florida, where he was an active member.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Holland Sentinel on Sep. 14, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Vernon Zuverink

Sponsored by Kraeer-Fairchild Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

12 Entries

Marc Blondin

September 25, 2014

Vern was my teacher, my drivers ed instructor, as well as my neighbor. He always had a smile and was a great guy.
God speed. My condolences to the family.
Marc Blondin

Mari Aker

September 25, 2014

I want to thank everyone who was part of my dad's journey through this life. By God's grace we will continue the journey with him once our time is up or Jesus returns, whatever happens first. My dad loved God and his family and friends!!

Bev Postema

September 25, 2014

Ina Mae and family, my love and prayers are with you. Vern was a great man..so kind and friendly..he touched many lives.. Bev Postema

Sara Brant

September 24, 2014

It is so neat to see how much others appreciated Grandpa too. In my book he was the best man in the world! He was there for our family at every twist and turn in our lives. He was always happy to see us kids, even though we were quite a hand full. I am going to miss his positive, life loving energy. He was a devoted follower of Christ and I saw God's love shine through him. It's going to be hard to carry on without him but God knew he was ready to go home.

Thanks for your love and support.

Laura Reece

September 24, 2014

Thank you all for sharing your great memories and messages of my grandpa, one of the best guys out there! It's nice to see the number of lives he touched during his time here. He definitely loved everything that he did and saw the best in every situation.

September 16, 2014

Dear Ina Mae and family,
Our love and many prayers are with you.
Ken and Bonnie Minier

Bruce Bishop

September 15, 2014

Mari and Zuverink Family Members;

My sincere sympathy on the passing your father Vern. He was a unique character and always seemed to find the joy in life. Know that many of your high school classmates are holding you in their thoughts and prayers. May wonderful memories comfort you all.

September 15, 2014

we will all remember Vern's enthsiasm and smile, and will remember his dedication to helping others. As a colleague and friend, I am thankful for having worked with and for Vern. He made a lasting and positive contribution to Grand Haven schools and athletics.
Tom and Linda DeKuiper

Jim Lothschutz

September 14, 2014

When we all brought in kazoo-like plastic noise makers to the basketball games at The Pit in 1985-86, we called them "Ka-Zoovies" in his honor. I remember him wearing "The Shoes" of the GH/Holland" football rivalry at the pep assemblies and getting the student body to chant "We've got the SHOES!" Nice man, who will be missed. Jim Lothschutz GHHS Class of 1986 and current Principal of Miras International School in Almaty, Kazakhstan

Jon Constant

September 14, 2014

Vern was one of my favorite teachers and coaches of my youth. I have very fond memories of him as my 9th Grade basketball coach at the old Grand Haven Junior High. He was a great role model for me when I became a teacher and coach. His positive attitude,, integrity, sense of humor, and great laugh will never be forgotten. My sincerest condolences.
Jon R. Constant

September 12, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Tade

Julie & Peter Cokinis

September 11, 2014

Dear Aunt Ina May,
Mark, Mari and all of your families.
I can't express how terribly sad I am. I sure wish I could be there with you all. I know how very difficult this has to be for all of you.
Uncle Vern was one of the nicest people I have ever known. He always had a great smile and his laugh was something that just made you feel good! Oh the memories of the family parties at your house in Grand Haven...
everyone always had so much fun!
He will surely be missed by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him.
Love and Hugs to you all,

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