Samuel B. Van Boven

Samuel Buell Van Boven, 92, of Battle Creek, Michigan, died peacefully on Friday, November 15, 2024. 

Sam was born on September 27, 1932, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Leonard and Ida (Buell) Van Boven. He grew up in Ferndale, Michigan, and after graduating high school and attending Albion College honorably served his country from 1953 to 1955 in the U.S. Air Force, discharged with top secret clearance. Sam then graduated from the University of Michigan with an economics degree and entered the field of banking, starting work at Ann Arbor Federal Savings & Loan. After a distinguished career that took the Van Bovens to Battle Creek, Sam retired as a regional president of Great Lakes Bancorp. 

Sam served on the Boards of Directors for Battle Creek Symphony Orchestra and the Battle Creek Area Habitat for Humanity, was an active member of the Rotary Club of Battle Creek, and, with his wife Jo, was a member of the University of Michigan President’s Club. Sam was also an avid fisherman and woodworker. 

Samuel Van Boven and Joan May “Jo” Voss were united in marriage on April 27, 1957. Jo, his wife of more than 66 years, preceded Sam in death on February 1, 2024. He is survived by two sons, Gregory Van Boven (David Beck) of Boston, Massachusetts, and Andrew “Andy” Van Boven of South Lyon, Michigan; his grandchildren Emma, Zachary, Grace, and Katherine Van Boven; and cousins, nieces, and nephews and their families. 

In addition to his wife Jo, Sam was preceded in death by his parents; three daughters, Lynda Van Boven, Julie Van Boven, and Diane Van Boven; and his siblings, Sally Jerue, Charles Van Boven, and Gretchen Howe. 

Sam’s family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where the Rev. Dr. James Gysel will officiate a service to celebrate Sam’s life at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday. Inurnment will be held later at Fort Custer National Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.