Gerald Frederick Vanderwerff, of Bothell, Washington passed away suddenly at his home on August 31, 2017. He was born September 20, 1951 in North Bend, Washington. He is survived by his wife, Pat of 45 years and his children. Jessica & Dan Addink of Denver, Colorado and their children, Davis, Tucker and Crosby. Andrew & Jenny Vanderwerff of Shoreline, Washington and their children, Maddox, Jacob and Mia. Matthew & Heidi Vanderwerff of Washington, D.C. and their children, Elliott and Nora. Allison and Jeff Miller of Bothell, Washington and their children, Calvin and Josephine.
Gerald grew up on a dairy farm in Monroe, Washington and attended Monroe Christian grade school and graduated from Watson Groen Christian School in Shoreline, Washington. He attended Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, Illinois, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. He and Pat married in May 1972 and made their home in Chicago.
He taught 3rd and 4th grade and drove the school bus at Roseland Christian School in Chicago. In 1980, Gerald and Pat relocated to Washington to be closer to family and settled in Bothell. Gerald became a mechanic at Honda of Bellevue. He continued to support his family as a mechanic, receiving many awards for his efficiency and lack of mistakes.
Gerald enjoyed music, books, poems, loved a good joke or pun, and photography. He was a faithful friend, maintained childhood friendships and enjoyed making new friends up until he died. He loved fresh summer fruit, whipping cream in his coffee and seafood.
For the past 15 years, Gerald suffered with chronic pain, a result of Lupus. This was not easy, for him or those who loved him. Despite this he never felt abandoned by God.
He loved summertime and warm weather. This summer was especially sweet because Allison, his youngest daughter and her family moved to Bothell and lived with Gerald and Pat. He commented how fun it was to have grandchildren in the house.
Gerald will be remembered fondly by his family and friends.