Gary VanLeeuwen

03/11/1955 - 12/05/2025

In Loving Memory of Gary Jay VanLeeuwen.
Gary Jay VanLeeuwen, 70, passed away peacefully at his home in Lake City, Michigan, on December 5, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.
Gary was born March 11, 1955, in Grand Rapids to Gerritt and Eleanor VanLeeuwen. He was raised in Wyoming, MI, where he attended Calvin Christian, making many lifelong friends. While studying at Calvin College, Gary met Sharon Smits. The two were married for 36 years and raised their four children in Jenison, Michigan before Sharon's passing. Gary spent most of his career at Steelcase, where he created many memories and lasting friendships.
Gary married Sylvia Anna VanLeeuwen in 2015, and together they moved to Lake City in 2016 where they purchased the Lake City Taphouse (formerly Hollywood Bar).
His strong faith in his Lord Jesus guided him throughout his life, and he enjoyed hymns, musicals, live music, and reading. Gary cherished family time, pontoon rides, golfing, hunting, Florida vacations, and meeting friends Sunday afternoons, Monday nights, or whenever they wandered into the Taphouse. He was known for his warm hugs and gentle chuckle, making those around him feel welcomed. A devoted Chicago Bears fan, Gary loved tailgating with his sons, Geoff and Jim. Gary will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Sylvia and his children and stepchildren: Jim (Hillary) VanLeeuwen, Geoff (Kristen) VanLeeuwen, Betsy VanLeeuwen, Sandy (Kelly) VanBrouwer, Heather (Cole) Laughlin, David (Margret) Petitpas, and Gabe (Mariah) Ruell; his sisters Mary (Don) Postma, Janice DeVries, and Terri VanLeeuwen.
Gary was a beloved grandfather to Kyah, Norah, Natalie, Elena, Grant, Abigail, Liana, Asher, Lillian, Vivian, Felix, Zell, and Linken. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Sharon VanLeeuwen; parents Gerritt and Eleanor VanLeeuwen; brothers, Randy and Kenny VanLeeuwen; and brother-in-law, Alvin DeVries.
Celebration of Life and Memorial Services.
Lake City: A special meal and memory sharing event will be held at the Lake City Taphouse on Monday, December 15, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Grand Rapids: A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 18th, at LaGrave CRC Church, 107 LaGrave Ave S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. and a luncheon afterward.
Gary's final resting place will be at Grandville Cemetery, alongside his first wife Sharon and other family members.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local food pantry to help provide Christmas dinners.