- Date Of Death: May 20, 2012
- State: Michigan
Vermeulen, John Douglas of Kalamazoo, Michigan. Passed away at his home Sunday, May 20, and is the son of the late Leslie and Eloise Rickman Vermeulen. He attended the University of Michigan School of Engineering, was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and was commissioned in the US Air Force upon graduation in 1956.
He enjoyed a passionate career in aerospace engineering for 31 years, retiring from National Water Lift in 1997. John then took the helm of the family business, Vermeulen Furniture, founded by his father and finally enjoyed many years with friends at Pete’s B-Line Auto perfecting his mechanical techniques. He was a life long member of First Presbyterian Church in Kalamazoo where he married Kay Cutshaw Vermeulen on September 29, 1956, who survives him. Together, they had three daughters and a lifetime of memories created by traveling and entertaining with many, many friends.
A lifetime fascination with trains led John to build his own live steam locomotive. John shared his confident approach to problem solving with all who knew him, helping to fix anything. He was often heard saying “Not to Worry” while selflessly giving of himself and his time to tackle another’s dilemma.
Surviving are three daughters; Julie John Addy of Lincoln, NE, Sara Vermeulen of Charlotte, N.C. and Betsy Matt Young of Plainwell; nine grandchildren, Nicholas and Collin Monika Lytle, Ian and William Addy, Joshua Lange, Desmond and Abigail Waters and Jack and Ava Young; his brother-in-law, Frank Eichelberg of Kalamazoo; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and many dear friends. John was preceded in death by his sister, Leslie Eichelberg.
