Michael John VanZuiden, 72, of Ottawa, passed away on Sunday, October 9, 2022 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday October 14, 2022 at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa, with Rev. Duane Kaufman officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park, where Full Military Rites will be accorded by the American Legion Post 33 Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. on Friday, at the funeral home.
Michael was born on February 13, 1950 in Fulton, IL to Marvin and Margaret (Schaver) VanZuiden. He was a graduate of Fulton High School Class of 1968. After high school, Michael enlisted in the US Navy. He served in Vietnam and was Honorably Discharged in 1972. Michael married Regina Jensen on October 28, 1972 in Morrison, IL. He worked at Caterpillar for over 35 years, starting on the plant floor and working his way up to Engineering Supervisor. He was a member of the American Legion Post 33. Michael enjoyed fishing and golfing, but more than anything he loved spending time with his grandchildren and attending their activities.
Michael is survived by his wife, Regina; four children, Jon (Rhonda) VanZuiden of Oglesby, Gary (Rose) VanZuiden of Ottawa, Angela VanZuiden of Ottawa, and Kevin (April Catlin) of Leonore; four grandchildren, Hayley VanZuiden, Gavin Jonassen, Maddison VanZuiden, and Gracie VanZuiden; a brother, Don (Terry) VanZuiden of Rio Rancho, NM; two sisters, Linda Davis of Fulton, IL and Arla (Ron) Tomman of Fulton, IL; and one great granddaughter on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Larry.
Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.
Michael has been laid to rest in the Garden of Prayer at Oakwood Memorial Park.