Samuel VanValkenburg

His Legacy… Samuel Kenneth VanValkenburg, 66, passed away July 3, 2026.  He was born on December 15, 1959, in Paw Paw, Michigan, to Kenneth VanValkenburg and Anna (Beck) VanValkenburg. Sam married the love of his life, Bonnie Cottongim, on November 1, 1980 in Fowlerville, Michigan.   He will be remembered as a loving, one of a kind dad and friend who always had something to say. Sam always spoke his mind, and he didn’t hesitate to share his thoughts with anyone he encountered. It’s been said that Sam never met a stranger, everywhere he went he happened upon an old friend that he could catch up with. There is no doubt that his love stretched farther than anyone could ever realize.

Sam had a big heart; he’d give you the shirt off his back if you ever needed one. His generosity stemmed into the kitchen, keeping a snack and goodie drawer always stocked for his family and the neighborhood kids alike. Sam knew how to spoil his grandchildren; he always made a point to shower them with love when they were near. Sam will be remembered most for that very love and the way he used it to care for everyone he met.

His Family… Sam will be missed by his wife, Bonnie; his children, Troy (Charlotte), Quinten (Jennifer), Amanda (Jason); sister, Lisa (Randy); grandchildren, Austin (Alissa), Ashley, Ben (Kyra), Drake, Tylor, Savannah, Malia, Landyn, Eliana; great grandchildren, Memphis, Braden, Brody; close friends, Bill Hudson & Ed Eogler, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth & Anna.

His Farewell… Sam’s family and friends will gather on Saturday, July 11, 2026, 1:00PM - 3:00PM, at Borek Jennings Funeral Homes in Fowlerville, Michigan. His Community Farewell will follow immediately at 3:00PM.  Please leave a message of comfort for Samuel’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

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