Charlotte M. Van Der Bos Obituary

A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held at Joldersma & Klein on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends at the funeral home beginning at 10:00 AM, one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to The Seeing Eye, c/o the funeral home.

On September 20, 2025, Charlotte M. Van Der Bos passed away at Centrica Rose Arbor Place, surrounded by loved ones. She was born in Grand Rapids, MI, on February 8, 1936, the daughter of the late Frank and Gwendolyn (Silvernail) Di Piazza. Charlotte was born almost completely blind and though her blindness posed many challenges, it never limited her ability to enjoy life and live it to the fullest. On September 24, 1955, she married the love of her life, Ralph H. Van Der Bos who preceded her in passing in 2019. Charlotte attended the Lansing School for the Blind where she learned many of the skills which would help her navigate life. She also had a strong faith in the Lord which kept her filled with hope and joy. She worked hard as a wife and mother to provide a happy home. She was an excellent cook who was famous for her "red soup, mashed potatoes, and potato salad and Christmas fudge". She loved sharing these delicious dishes with others and was most happy when her family and friends gathered around the table. She was musically gifted and enjoyed playing the organ and accordion. She also enjoyed cross-country skiing. In later years she would spend winters in Florida where she made several close friends. Above all Charlotte loved her family and she was especially proud of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her smile, gentleness and quiet nature will be missed by all who loved her. She is survived by three children, Michael (Cathy) Van Der Bos, Laurie (Terry) Van Der Bos and Tracy (William) Yancy; grandchildren, Logan (Austin) Van Der Bos, Kacey Van Der Bos, Amber (Mike) Dickson, Brandon (Samantha) Start, Curtis (Adrienne) Start and Courtney (Ryan) Farnal, Keith Van Der Bos Yancy, Brooke (Jeff) McLean; many great-grandchildren; extended family and friends. She was also preceded in passing by a daughter, Robin Van Der Bos and ten siblings.