Gary Lee VanHulzen
Passed: February 14, 2022
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Gary Lee VanHulzen
Passed: February 14, 2022
Obituary
Gary Lee VanHulzen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, coach, and friend entered into eternal glory on February 14, 2022.
Gary was born on October 16, 1946 in Artesia, California to Gerrit and Annetta VanHulzen. He graduated from Valley Christian High School. A football scholarship brought him to Central College in Pella, Iowa where he earned a teaching degree and met his wife, Mary. They were married in January 1968. Gary spent his career teaching at his alma mater, Valley Christian High School (Cerritos, CA) and at Lynden Christian High School (Lynden, WA). He positively impacted the lives of hundreds of students through both his teaching and coaching. After his retirement, Gary continued to serve others by volunteering at the Whatcom Hospice House, and then serving as chaplain at the Christian Health Care Center in Lynden.
Gary is survived by his dearest wife Mary, and his children: Jennifer (Joel) Gontjes and Jon (Leanne) VanHulzen. He deeply loved each one of his grandchildren: Jaymes (Kendra) Gontjes, Jansen (Amber) Gontjes, Emma Gontjes, Riley VanHulzen, and Ellie VanHulzen. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy (Jerry) Westra, his brother, Jim (Laura) VanHulzen, along with brothers- and sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, their families, and many friends.
Even though Gary struggled with Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s at the end of his life, he remained strong in spirit and lived out his signature blessing: “Keep the Faith.”
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, February 19th at 11:00am at Sonlight Church in Lynden.
Memorials in Gary’s name may be made to: Lynden Christian Schools – 417 Lyncs Drive, Lynden WA 98264, or to Christian Heath Care Center – 855 Aaron Drive, Lynden, WA 98264.
“One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.” Psalm 27:4
Please share your memories of Gary in his online guestbook.
Memorial Service
- Date & Time: February 19, 2022 (11:00 AM)
- Venue: Sonlight Church
- Location: Lynden, WA - (Get Directions)
19 responses to Gary Lee VanHulzen
Jake Kalma says:
February 16, 2022
Wasn’t able to finish. Gary was my History, Government teacher. He was my baseball and football coach. He was the inspiration to graduate. Love that guy. He will be truly missed. 😔
shari sorenson lowell says:
February 16, 2022
My sincere condolences to all. Mr. VanHulzen was my history teacher and I do remember a time or two when he taught standing on top of his desk or a students desk.. ha!. I currently serve on my local school board in Arizona and I have the opportunity to recognize great teachers which I couldn’t do without having several myself – including Mr. VanHulzen, he set a great example.
Thank you!
Ben Kornelis says:
February 17, 2022
“Good morning, covenant youth – time for more thrills and high adventure in Reformed theology!” I’ll forever hear this in Gary’s big voice. May his memory be a blessing.
Douglas James says:
February 17, 2022
Mr. VanHulzen was my football coach and teacher of History and Government. A person who was strong in is belief of Jesus. Taught us young men to be men of Christ and how to walk with Jesus daily. I am thank you for this. May God blessings shine on your family at this time. Love in Christ,
Patricia Verhoeven says:
February 17, 2022
Our deepest sympathy to your family. Gary was a great man. Loved him as a teacher at Valley Chr High school in Cerritos. He cared about his students.