Steven VanGrouw ’58

Steven Van Grouw, age 92, died February 20, 2024, at a local care facility. He was born July 20, 1931, to Jake and Anna (Zwagerman) Van Grouw in Sheldon, Iowa, graduated in 1948 from Sheldon High School, and served four years as a clerk at the U.S. Naval Air Base in El Centro, CA. He graduated from Hope College in 1958 with a BA in psychology, and Eastern Michigan University in 1961 with an MA in education. Steve taught special education and seventh grade English at E.E. Fell Junior High School from 1959 to 1990. In retirement, he worked as a part time aide in the psychiatric ward at Holland Hospital. Not only did Steve play softball, basketball, and tennis for much of his life, he umpired Holland Recreation softball and was an avid Hope College sports fan. He was a Community Mental Health Helpline volunteer for more than 25 years.

Steve served Third Reformed Church as an elder, a Stephen’s Ministry counselor and trainer and sang in the choir for more than 40 years. He is survived by his widow, Margaret (Foster) Van Grouw; sons, Todd Van Grouw and Rick (Tammy Hillen) Van Grouw; grandchildren Claire (Austin Rouwhorst), Erin, Alison (AJ) Rietberg, and Max; two great-grandchildren; siblings Anna Mae (John) Barrett and Larry (Judy) Van Grouw; sister-in-law Helen Van Grouw; brother-in-law Stan Foster; and numerous nieces and nephews.