Brian Keith VanderKooi

October 11 , 1978 - October 08 , 2026

LIVE LIVE STREAM FUNERAL SERVICE

PanCAN

Brian Keith VanderKooi

October 11 , 1978 - October 08 , 2026

VISITATIONS:

Tuesday, October 13, 2026

1:30PM ~ 8:00PM
Michigan Memorial Funeral Home

SERVICES:

Tuesday, October 13, 2026

6:00PM
Michigan Memorial Funeral Home Chapel

SEND FLOWERS

Obituary

Brian Keith VanderKooi, born October 11, 1978, in Wyandotte, Michigan, passed away on October 8, 2026, in Detroit, Michigan, at the age of 47.

Brian was a devoted family man and a passionate enthusiast of many pursuits. He found great joy in coaching girls hockey within the Little Caesars organization, sharing his love for the sport with young athletes. An avid boater, he cherished time spent on the water and also delighted in riding scooters, mopeds, and jet skis. Brian had a deep passion for all things automotive, especially Mustangs. A true Ford man through and through, he loved driving and fixing cars, finding satisfaction in hands-on work and the thrill of the road. Above all, he treasured being a girl dad to his daughters, Sarah and Kristin.

He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Nancy Jezylo; his uncles, Roger Kleinheksel, Ron VanderKooi, and aunt Cindy VanderKooi; as well as his beloved grandparents.

Brian is survived by his loving wife, Kate VanderKooi; his parents, Jerry and Lois VanderKooi; his daughters, Sarah and Kristin; his siblings, Kristi (Eric) Bramlett and David (Kaisa) VanderKooi; his father-in-law, Ron (Rebecca) Jezylo; and many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will remember him fondly.

Brian’s warm spirit, dedication to his family, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Brian’s memory may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN).

Condolences

Kate, there are no words. I am just devastated for you and your girls. Brian was one of the best men I ever met. Always smiling, kind, funny. And he just loved you. The two of you were always just meant for each other. I am blessed to have known him. I pray for you, the girls, and your families. Danielle Tharp
I am so deeply sorry for the loss of dear Brian. I have so many fond memories of him hanging out with JJ st our house. Those two were always pulling pranks on me and kept me laughing. Brian will be remembered with love by everyone that knew him. You are all in my prayers. Deborah Whitman (JJ Weaks mother) Deborah Whitman (formerly Weaks)
I’m so sorry to hear about Brian. There are no words for the loss of a child at any age. I hope friends and relatives gather around you. Love Jim and Elaine Konopka Elaine Konopka
I’m so sorry for what you’re going through! I’ve been praying for Brian for a long time, and I’m keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers, It’s easy to see you were the joy of his life. He will always be with you, and I know he will be smiling down on you from heaven. Kerry Bonin
Hugs and prayers for the entire Vanderkooi family. We are so sorry for your loss. May the Lord through family, friends, and memories sustain you in the days and months ahead. ❤️ Scott and Cindy Kallgren
Our memories of Brian will never fade away. He was a real car guy, and we will never forget him hangin’ out with our son Dan, taking apart and putting back together motors of all sorts in our garage. But more than that, he was a loving and protective husband to Kate and to his daughters. We watched Brian grow into the man he became. He ‘s gone away from us too soon, and for that we are very, very sad. Phil & Marylee Kortas
I had the privilege of working with Brian on the Bronco on a number of occasions. A wonderful bloke with a huge knowledge and equally big heart. We had many laughs and the banter we had created a great mateship. I’ll never forgive him for leaving me stranded in Phoenix to build a car on my own😂😂. I am deeply saddened by his passing and will miss the messages we occasionally shared. GTM big fella! Condolences to everyone touched by his passing and big hugs to you all from Oz! Keith Turner (Australia)
Dear Jerry and Lois I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your son Brian.yous are in my thoughts and prayers I express my deepest sympathy 🙏💗 Lil weenum
I am very sorry for your loss. Brian was a great person and I don't think I ever saw the guy upset or angry. Brad - Justin - and now Brian. All way too soon. My heart is with his entire family. Bill Hasler
Kate, Jerry, and Lois, my heart goes out to you. Brian was an incredible person whose kindness and spirit will be remembered by everyone who knew him. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers. Vadim Matatov
With deepest condolence and very sorry for your loss, Brian was a great guy, a friend, and co-worker. I always bounce stupid ideas or thoughts, and we would have great conversation. He will be missed greatly especially in the break room. Michael Choi
We will miss Brian. He was always so full of life, and he was a bright light on our block. John and Kim Dunn
My thoughts and prayers go to Brian's wife, children and parents. I have many great memories of Brian from Gabriel Richard hockey. We kept in contact over the past few years. Definitely gone way too soon but he will never be forgotten. Rest easy now Brian! Robert Hellar Jr.
Very sorry to hear about loss. Brian was a great guy and I enjoyed our time coaching together. Our thoughts are with his entire family during this difficult time.. Nick Bowman