Gary Jay VanLeeuwen

Gary Jay VanLeeuwen passed away peacefully at his home in Lake City, Michigan on December 5, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 70 years old.

Gary was born on March 11, 1955 in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Gary was married to Sylvia Anna VanLeeuwen on September 12, 2015, in Lowell, Michigan.

He is survived by his wife, Sylvia and his children and stepchildren: Jim and Hillary Van Leeuwen, Geoff and Kristen VanLeeuwen, Betsy VanLeeuwen, Sandy and Kelly VanBrouwer, Heather and Cole Laughlin, David and Margret Petitpas, and Gabe and Mariah Ruell. His sisters, Mary and Don Postma, Janice Devries, and sister in law, Terri VanLeeuwen also mourn his passing.

Gary was a beloved grandfather to Kyah, Norah, Natalie, Elaina, 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; his mother, Eleanor VanLeeuwen; his father, Gerritt VanLeeuwen; his brothers, Randy and Kenny VanLeeuwen; and his brother-in-law, Alvin Devries.

Gary dedicated a significant portion of his career to STEELCASE, an office furniture manufacturer, where he made a lasting impact. He earned his Master’s degree at Western Michigan University in his 50s and previously attended Calvin College after graduating from high school.

Gary cherished spending time with family, riding his pontoon around the lake, hunting, vacationing in Florida, and meeting friends at The Taphouse and Town Pump. He was known for his warm hugs and gentle chuckle, which made those around him feel welcomed.

His strong faith in the Lord Jesus guided him throughout his life, and he enjoyed hymns, musicals, live music, and reading.

Gary fell in love with Lake City, Michigan, and, in December 2016, he and Sylvia purchased the Lake City Taphouse, formerly the Hollywood Bar. He became a memorable figure to many guests and regulars, often found sitting in his Steelcase chair at the end of the bar with a cold mug of beer and a friendly smile.

A devoted Chicago Bears fan, Gary loved tailgating with his sons, Geoff and Jim. He had many lifelong friends in Grand Rapids, spanning elementary, high school, college, church, and work. Gary will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life and Memorial Service will be held at The Lake City Taphouse on Monday, December 15, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. with a gathering, special meal and memory sharing. The Taphouse will be closed to the general public on this day.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, December 18 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, Memorial Contributions be made to a local food pantry in your area to help provide Christmas dinners.

The Young-Holdship Funeral Home in Lake City is serving the family. Words of comfort and memories may be shared on www.holdshipfuneralhomes.com.

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