With mischief in his eyes Anson (Sonny) VanEpps II lived his life to the fullest, making everyone around him smile and roll our eyes until he left us on January 1st, 2024. Throughout his long battle with prostate cancer, Sonny kept his sense of humor and love for telling stories, some more true than others.

Sonny is proceeded in death by his parents Anson and Myrtle VanEpps and his brother and sister. He is survived by his wife Diane, 3 children Cindy (Kevin) Fleck, Denise (Nicholas) Laraque, and Andy (Kelly) VanEpps. His 7 grandchildren Mandi, Chris, Carrie, Jason, Nick, Kyle, and Ellie along with 6 great-grandchildren and several nieces & nephews.

This playful outdoorsman began his adventure in Battle Creek where he raced whatever was available; winning awards for racing canoes, dirt bikes, and cars. As an Eagle Scout he found a love for fishing, camping, and hunting. Passions he gladly shared with the next generation.

As a member of the Navy he earned his Shellback on the USS Cromwell, during the Cuban Missile Crisis. However, his greatest honor was winning the hand of his wife, Diane.

Together they moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan to raise their family of 3 children and countless stray animals. Through the years he taught Cindy how to ride and show horses, Denise to love nature by raising rabbits and catching snakes, and Andy how to hunt and process deer.

Spanning four decades his grandchildren spent hours playing in his bountiful garden, helping him cook often in ways that their parents would not have approved. All while falling victim to his tall tales and nose thievery.

Diane and Sonny went on many adventures including several cruises and an annual trip to the Merriweather in Florida to bask in the sun with Marilyn and Burt Cushing.

Sonny’s joyful impishness brought smiles to all who knew him. He made many lasting friendships, working as a tool and die maker for Mol-Son and as lifetime member of the Elks and Moose Lodges. Even those who provided him care in his later years were touched by his shine. 

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