Richard H. Vander Velde

Richard H. Vander Velde, age 90, was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Beloved husband for almost 68 years to Annamae, nee Ipema. Loving father of Richard (Lorilee), Randall (Debra) and Russell (Lauren) Vander Velde. Proud grandfather of Jori (Joe) Wegner, Kami (Steve) Vinke, Hollin (Bobby) Dompeling; Ryan (Amie) Vander Velde, Brittany (Bennett) Vander Veer, Kaylee (Samuel) Bettinardi; Brett (Martha), Bradley (Hailey) and Austin (Kirstynn) Vander Velde. Cherished great-grandfather of Henrik, Theo, Everly, Arlo, Allyn, Huntleigh, Brooklyn, Bristol, Bennett, Ryder, Adalynn, Charlotte, Jackson, Matteo, Luciana, Dominic, Zoey, Daphne, Suzanna, Claire, Boaz, Jude, Henry and one more on the way. Dear brother of Wilma Steenland, Ellie (Homer) Wigboldy, Ron, and the late John, Jerry, Katherine Lenderink, and William II. Fond brother-in-law of the late Hank (late Sharon) Ipema and Annamae’s twin brother the late Rev. William “Bud” (late Donna) Ipema. Dearest uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.

Rich was the longtime owner and operator of General Refuse Disposal in Alsip, Illinois, a business he built through years of dedication and hard work. Deeply committed to his faith, he was an active and devoted member of his church, serving faithfully as both a deacon and an elder over the years. He was a loving and devoted husband and best friend to his wife, Annamae. Rich took great pride in his three sons and their families, and treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He especially cherished his time spent at their trailer in Holland, Michigan, where he enjoyed many summers surrounded by family, creating memories that will be cherished forever. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation Sunday, February 15, 2026 from 3-7PM at Colonial Chapel 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. Lying in State Monday, February 16, 2026 at First United Reformed Church of Oak Lawn, 9350 S. 54th Ave., Oak Lawn, IL 60453 from 10:00 a.m. until time of Funeral Service 11:00 a.m. A live stream of the service will be available. Please visit Rich's obituary on Colonial Chapel's website at colonialchapel.com to view the live-stream of the service. The link will be posted shortly. Interment Chapel Hill Gardens South, Oak Lawn, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to First United Reformed Church of Oak Lawn are appreciated.  

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400