Richard D. VanWieren Sr. age 87, of Beaverton, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025. He was born on April 17, 1938, the son of Joseph and Mary (Podbilski) Van-Wieren, in Cadillac.
Most people reading this know him as “Coach,” and he was a great one. But he was also a loving husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, uncle and friend. But first, he was a son.
He was born in Cadillac Michigan, to Joe and Mary Van Wieren in 1938. He was the youngest of three sisters and two brothers.
Not knowing how strong he was himself, or handsome, or talented in athletics. He worked hard, so I’m sure he didn’t see it as talent. He was adored and mothered by Mary, along with his three sisters. He remained close to them all throughout his life, maintaining a special bond with his brother Gordon.
He loved his coaching. He was firm, but fair. Encouraging, knowing anyone can be good if they just work hard enough.
A man of few words, but words that meant something when he said them. A person who you knew entered a room, when he entered a room. As a high school teacher and administrator, he was stern but fair, and all the kids knew that. Come on, we all remember the look up into the bleachers at a pep assembly! Or the figure standing by the weight room doors while cruising the halls. He looked for the best in people, and often helped them find it too.
In 1961 he married Donna Harris. They had three children: Deborah Jo Elizabeth (James) Brushaber, Richard Jr. (Tonia), and DeAnne Van Wieren Glenn. He is survived by his wife, Donna; his children; grandchildren: AshLee and Michael Satkowiak, Joseph and Loni Brushaber, Tara and Phillip Rowley, Jesse Brushaber; great-grandchildren: Tenley, Kaylin, Lane”Van”, Jason, Abigail, Emersyn, Lexie. Dick was predeceased by his parents, three sisters, and two brothers.
Visitation was held on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025 from 12-4 p.m. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home in Beaverton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in accordance to the wishes of the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome. com.