Twila Renee VanSpronsen

Twila Renee VanSpronsen passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, January 9, 2025.

Twila was born on March 26, 1956, in Volga, South Dakota, to Howard and Carol Clapp. After high school, she attended Calvin College and later graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in education.

Twila had a deep and lasting influence within the Christian church, where she led numerous groups and organizations, including youth groups and summer camps. She was especially known for her love of children and her ability to make every kid feel seen and valued. It was not uncommon for neighborhood kids, particularly those from difficult home situations, to call her “Mom.” Influencing others in a positive way wasn’t just something she believed in; it was how she lived.

Professionally, Twila spent many years working in school districts, first as an aide and later as a teacher, where her patience, firmness, and compassion left a lasting impression on students and coworkers alike.

Outside of work, Twila loved being in her yard. While weeds had plenty of freedom in the grass, they were not welcome in her flower beds. Her greatest pride and joy, however, was her boys. She made countless sacrifices to ensure they experienced life fully, whether that meant driving them to endless sporting events, cheering faithfully from the stands (despite not being a sports fan), or ruling the household with an iron fist to make sure school assignments were completed. She deserves full credit for at least two of those boys making it to graduation.

Twila was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Carol Clapp, her sister-in-law Lee Clapp, and her husband of 48 years, Gerard VanSpronsen. She is survived by her three sons: Jeremy (Natalie), Stephan (Ashley), and Benjamin (Anne); and her three grandchildren, Taylor, Kolton, and Trystan.

She is also survived by her five brothers: Mike (Tonya), Kent (Mary), Reginald, Roland, and Mark (Lori), along with many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday March 21st, 2026  at 2:00pm at New Life Church at 5115 Portage Rd, Portage, MI 49007.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson Research Foundation. Twila will be deeply missed by all who knew her, and especially by those lucky enough to be loved by her.