In Memory of Dr. George Vander Velde ’63

The College mourns the passing of Dr. George Vander Velde ’63, former vice president for campus development, on April 1, 2015. He was 71.

Vander Velde served faithfully as he provided oversight of two of the largest expansion projects in the College’s history—the DeVos Athletics and Recreation Center and the George and June Schaaf Athletics Complex (Rt. 83 athletics fields). His joyful personality prevailed as he battled cancer even during his service to the College. 

Vander Velde instituted the College’s Maurice Vander Velde Junior Scholar Award in honor of his father, a former trustee and curator of Trinity. The Vander Velde program has supported scores of original scholarly research projects in the exact sciences, humanities, social sciences, and fine arts. 

Vander Velde is survived by his wife, Harriet (Wiersma); his children, Anya (Jeffrey) Herlien, Erica Vander Velde and Jonathan (Jennifer) Vander Velde; as well as his grandchildren, Tyler and Justin Herlien.

For those who would like to leave a lasting tribute to George’s life, memorials may be directed to Trinity Christian College, 6601 W. College Dr., Palos Heights, IL 60463. 

Donation Link: https://connect.trnty.edu/give