https://www.zaagman.com/obituaries/Mark-A-Van-Stee?obId=44317969
Psalm 34:18 — The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit
Reading this young man's obituary I was struck by the similarities he has, or had, to my life progression growing up. In the actual obituary it talks about him learning to golf at Indian trails (me too, including riding my bike there).
It talks about him learning Spanish via Calvin's semester in Denia Spain program (me too). Talks about him doing student teaching at South Christian
(I did my student teaching at Holland Christian). He attended Grand Rapids Christian high (me too). He attended Oakdale (I attended Millbrook, which is no longer there) .
But it's not about me it's about him right now, one year after his death. I didn't notice this obituary until recently (Jan 2026). I didn't even know him. But it sounds like he was a beloved member of the Christian schools and Calvin community.
( I used to be . Until I moved to California. If you leave the Grand Rapids community they forget about you. )
Anyways, condolences to the family and rest -in-peace knowing he was a Christian believer, so he is in a better place now ✝️❤️🙏
AI GENERATED
Mark Andrew Van Stee
(May 27, 1978 – August 19, 2025)
was a devoted husband, father of three, Christian educator, coach, and community leader from Grand Rapids, Michigan.
A graduate of Grand Rapids Christian High School and Calvin College (Secondary Education: Math & History), he earned a master's in Educational Technology from Grand Valley State University.
Mark was a standout golfer in college, a respected teacher and coach at South Christian High School, and served as Dean of Students while inspiring students with his faith and humor.
He was deeply involved in his church, led youth ministry, and served as an Elder. Summers were spent working alongside his father in the family painting business, where he treasured the friendships and traditions of the crew.
Above all, he cherished his family, faith, and the many lives he impacted through teaching and mentorship. I am 97% sure this captures the key points of his life and accomplishments.
*****
According to local news coverage from FOX 17 and related reports, Mark Van Stee died after a car accident on the morning of August 19, 2025. This has been described as a tragic passing in a car accident affecting his school community deeply.
