Gerald L. VanVleet

Gerald Lee VanVleet, age 81, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on November 27, 2020. He was born April 23, 1939 in Battle Creek, the son of Eva Mae Butler and Robert Stevens VanVleet. He married his loving wife, Shirley, on July 26, 1969, and they have been married for 51 years. He enjoyed his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
An avid race fan, Gerald could be found at Spartan or Springport speedway every weekend during the summer. He also enjoyed fishing, being outdoors, and taking rides on his John Deere tractor.
Gerald is survived by his wife, Shirley; his children, Rebecca Reid of Eaton Rapids, Marjorie (Chris) Bashaw of Charlotte, and Jeremy (Jennifer) VanVleet of Petaluma Cal.; four grandchildren, Thomas Reid of Eaton Rapids, Samantha (Deren) Hoag of Coldwater, Jake Smith of Coldwater, and Richard Harris Jr. of Angola, Ind.; four step-grandchildren, Christopher (Brittany) Bashaw Jr. of Quincy, Samantha Bashaw of Owosso, Hailey Bashaw of Traverse City, and Rose Smith of Ocean Side, Cal.; nine great-grandchildren; his brother, Robert (Donna) VanVleet Jr. of Lake Lavine; and sister, Ruby VanVleet of Coldwater; and many nieces and nephews. Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, David VanVleet of Battle Creek and Ronald VanVleet of Bellevue; son-in-law Michael Reid of Eaton Rapids; and great-grandson Jayden Smith of Hillsdale.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday December 8, 2020 at Faith Assembly of God in Olivet, with Pastor Todd Mclane officiating. Interment followed at Perry Cemetery.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Gerald on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.