James “Jim” Vaandering, a businessman, devoted family patriarch and proud first-generation American whose life was defined by hard work and deep loyalty to loved ones, died peacefully at home Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in North Muskegon. He was 92 and surrounded by people who loved him dearly.

Born Jan. 30, 1934, in Muskegon, Jim was the son of Cornelius and Lena (Wilderom) Vaandering, who immigrated to the United States from the Netherlands in search of opportunity and a better life. Their determination and faith helped shape the values that would guide Jim throughout his life.

From an early age, Jim displayed an extraordinary intellect and work ethic. He attended Muskegon Christian School before skipping high school entirely and enrolling at Muskegon Junior College, then housed in the former Hackley School building across from Hackley Park in downtown Muskegon. By just 17 years old, he had earned his four-year degree.

While attending college, Jim began preparing taxes for local residents. He would travel to Teledyne Continental Motors, where his father worked, offering tax services to employees there for whatever they could afford to pay. What began as a way to help others became a lifelong calling. Long after retirement, Jim continued assisting people with their taxes, reflecting both his affinity for numbers and his willingness to help others.

The defining moment of Jim’s life began in downtown Muskegon, where he met a pretty waitress named Betty at a local restaurant frequented by Jim and his brother Case. Jim and Betty’s marriage lasted more than 70 years — a partnership marked by devotion, resilience and unwavering commitment to family. Together they raised six children and built a family whose roots and traditions remain a testament to their lifelong partnership.

Their home served as the Vaandering family’s epicenter for nearly three-quarters of a century. It was a place where holidays were celebrated, grandchildren later brought their own children to visit, and Jim always had a fresh pot of coffee ready for anyone who stopped by.

Over the years, Jim built a varied and successful professional life. He worked as production manager at Brunswick, where he spent 17 years before retiring. Even there, his knack for numbers frequently led him to assist in the accounting department.

He and Betty also owned Vaandering Draperies for many years.

But while Jim worked hard, he also knew how to enjoy life. In his younger years, he shared many adventures with his brothers, Arnold and Cornelius “Case” Vaandering. Devoted Tigers fans, Jim and Case even hitchhiked to Detroit to watch the team play. Jim treasured trips to the Netherlands with his brothers to visit family and fondly remembered fishing on the dam. He also loved Hank Williams and would hitchhike to concerts if he had the chance to see him.

One of the enduring joys in Jim’s life were family traditions and Michigan summers. He cherished taking his wife and children to the family cottages up north, where countless memories were made over the decades. He and his beloved wife, Betty, were longtime members of Marquette Trails Golf Club in Baldwin, where Jim golfed in a league and wrote a weekly column titled “Chip Shots” for the Lake County Star newspaper. The column offered updates on league play, always infused with the humor and wit that friends and family knew so well.

Golf became one of the great connective threads in Jim’s life. In later years, some of his children joined him in league play, and his enthusiasm for the sport spread to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He took enormous pride in following their accomplishments — from local records to honors such as Mr. Golf and even professional careers in the sport. Watching their success brought him tremendous happiness.

Jim was baptized at First Christian Reformed Church in downtown Muskegon and later became a longtime member of Immanuel Christian Reformed Church, where he faithfully served on numerous committees over the years.

Jim is survived by his wife, Betty Vaandering; son Larry (Penny) Vaandering; daughter Cherylann (Michael) Natte; son James A. (Peggy) Vaandering; daughter Betty Schaub; daughter-in-law Kathy Vaandering; 23 grandchildren; more than 40 great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Judy Vaandering; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son Gale Vaandering; daughter Diana Johnson; granddaughter Marri Natte; and brothers Arnold and Cornelius “Case” Vaandering.

Those who knew Jim will remember his intelligence, humor, generosity and the deep pride he took in his family. His was a life built not around recognition or attention, but around showing up — for his church, his work, his community and especially the people he loved.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel

www.beaconfh.com