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Joseph Eric VanderVlucht

In one of those stars I shall be living. In one of them I shall be laughing. And so it will be as if all the stars were laughing, when you look at the sky at night. And when your sorrow is comforted (time soothes all sorrows) you will be content that you have known me. You will always be my friend…I shall not leave you.
― Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince

Born in Toledo, Ohio on December 30, 1973 to Carol (Whitson) and Larry VanderVlucht, Joe peacefully, and surrounded by his family, took his last earthly breaths and made his way home to his Lord on Tuesday, November 28, 2017. What a treasure – our Joe. In 43 years he touched the lives of so many – with his tender heart, his insight, his sense of humor, and his generous spirit. Everyone loved him; he had the rare ability to make those in his presence feel instantly warm and at ease. He was one of those people that others just want to be around, want to spend time with. Joe spent his childhood in Bedford, Michigan, the forth of six busy and boisterous children. He was the cherished baby boy, who captured the hearts and attentions of most everyone who knew him. Joe graduated from Bedford High School in 1992, and went on to work for a time with his Father and Brother, building houses. He spent some years searching for his niche, and lived for a time in a few different parts of the country, but Home was always here in Bedford with his family. Eventually, he found his calling, and settled into a job with Acceptance Capital Mortgage Company, where he helped countless people accomplish the dream of owning a home. He loved his job, and was rightfully proud of his work. In his 30s, he had his beloved son, Calen, who brought to his life the abundant joy of fatherhood. Also in his 30s, he met his love Lisa (Slominski). They married on March 23, 2012. Together had have a daughter, Lindey.

Joe’s faith is something to be marveled at. He was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer less than 1 year ago, but his pure belief in God’s Plan never waivered. It was astounding and beautiful to witness. He fought hard to be physically well, but his absolute belief that God protected and cradled his soul made it possible for him to live these last months with joy and love in his heart. He never worried about himself; any anguish that he had came from knowing the sorrow his family would feel without him here on Earth. But he knew that no matter what, his spirit would always hold our hands and help us on our way.

Joe is survived by his wife, Lisa Marie (Slominski) VanderVlucht, and his two children, Calen and Lindey. He is also survived by his Mother, Carol VanderVlucht, and his siblings, Jim (Shelly) VanderVlucht, Laura (Ted) Keller, Susan (Dennis) Johnson, Amy (Troy) Travis, and Sarah (Justin) Centers. Additionally – he is survived by an army of nieces and nephews and extended family, and countless friends. Joe was preceded in death by his Father, Larry VanderVlucht.

We’ll see you later, Joe. We know you’re with Dad, undoubtedly fishing and having a beer. You’re looking down from Heaven, talking lovingly and proudly about the family, about our closeness and devotion to each other. Both of you with those tender eyes and sweet smiles. We love you.

Joe’s family would like to express love and gratitude for the incredible support from Hospice of Northwest Ohio. You are angels.

Visitation will take place Sunday, 12/3/2017, 3-8pm, at Pawlak Funeral Home (1640 Smith Road Temperance, MI 48182). Joe’s Funeral will be held on Monday, 12/4/2017 at 10am (also at Pawlak Funeral Home). Joe will be buried at Ottawa Hills Memorial Park (4210 West Central Ave. Toledo, OH 43606).