The Grand Valley State University community is remembering longtime
professor, friend and colleague Don VanderJagt, who died Tuesday,
March 10. He was 71.
VanderJagt taught mathematics at Grand Valley for 42 years and
served as chairman of the department for 25 years and faculty
representative to the Athletic Department. He mentored many students
and new faculty.
VanderJagt graduated from Hope College in 1959, received his master’s in Mathematics from Florida State University and his doctorate in Mathematics from Western Michigan University.
"Grand Valley is fortunate to have had a faculty member of the
caliber of Professor Don VanderJagt," said Gayle Davis, provost
and vice president of Academic Affairs. "Don made significant
contributions to the growth, development and quality of the
university. He will be deeply missed by students and colleagues."
VanderJagt was president of FARA for the NCAA Division I, II, III.
He also served on the Jenison Public School Board for 24 years, and as
president for eight years.
VanderJagt was a member of Central Reformed Church where he sang
in the choir and was actively involved in the RCA. He was the past
president of South Grand Rapids Classis and the Regional Synod of the
Great Lakes.
He is survived by his wife Barbara, four children and eight grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 14, at 11 a.m. at
Central Reformed Church, 10 College Ave. NE, Grand Rapids. Interment
at Georgetown Township Cemetery.
Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Dr. Donald
and Barbara VanderJagt Mathematics and Athletics Scholarship at Grand
Valley State University or Addie's Food Pantry of Central Reformed
Church.
Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday, from 2-4
p.m. and 6-9 p.m. at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home
(Grandville), 4145 Chicago Drive.
