Herman Louis "Van" Vanderwal's Obituary
Herman Louis "Van"Vanderwal
Herman "Van" Vanderwal passed away Saturday, April 13, 2013 in Longview at the age of 91. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 57 year, Ans "Ann" Voorneveld Vanderwal.
Herman Louis Vanderwal was born to Harman and Bertha Vanderwal on November 24, 1921 in Pladjoe, Indonesia. He lived in Indonesia until the age of 7, and then returned to his parent's homeland of The Netherlands where he lived in the city of Haarlem. From a young age, he loved learning and studying about anything and everything. He spoke seven languages fluently and attended the University of Delft. His involvement with ham radio operation led him to his involvement with Underground Radio during the war, assisting British and American pilots with weather reports. He was arrested for this involvement and given the death penalty for aiding and abetting the enemy. After some research, he was allowed a fair trial and was given a 10 year term at a prison camp in Amersfoort. He was eventually released from Amersfoort on May 26, 1944 and walked out a free man. Herman immigrated to the United States in 1951, while his fiancé, Ans Voorneveld awaited her visa. After a three-year wait, with a visa finally in hand, Herman and Ann Voorneveld Vanderwal were married on April 23, 1954, in Shreveport, shortly after her arrival in the United States. They were married for 57 years. Mr. Vanderwal owned a TV service called Sunset TV in the 60's, worked for Phillips Medical Systems and eventually retired from AT&T. After retirement, they enjoyed travelling all over the world on passes from United Airlines.
Herman is survived by his children: Son, Jan Vanderwal and wife Ronda of Longview, TX; Daughter, Nannette Vanderwal Anderson and husband Matt of Greeneville, TN; Grandchildren: Amy Vanderwal of Austin, TX; Haley Vanderwal Jones and husband Garrett of Houston, TX; Matthew, Grace and Paul Anderson of Greeneville, TN and one Great Grand Child, Shepherd Van Jones of Houston, TX.
Jan and Nan would like to thank Whispering Pines and Heartsway Hospice for the tender care that their dad received by all of the staff.
Graveside Services for Herman Lois Vanderwal, 91, of Shreveport will be held at the Forest Park West Cemetery on Monday, April 22, 2013 at 11a.m. with Evangelist Claude Jones and Reverend John Whitehurst officiating. Abby Jorden will play a special violin piece.
What’s your fondest memory of Herman?
What’s a lesson you learned from Herman?
Share a story where Herman's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Herman you’ll never forget.
How did Herman make you smile?