Wilhelmus van der Stappen

June 10, 1948 — June 5, 2023

Ogden — Wilbert van der Stappen, 74 passed away on Monday June 5, 2023 while fulfilling a long time adventure in Spain. He was born on June 10, 1948, to Lambertus and Petronella van der Stappen in Tilburg, Netherlands. His family emigrated to Ogden, Utah in 1957, and he made this his home.

His greatest joy in this life was his family. He loved them fiercely and would do anything for them. He was blessed with three children. When he became a grandpa, his title changed from dad to Opa, a name he would wear with great pride. Nine grandchildren in total, and two great grandchildren.

His childhood was full of mischief and adventure, and he successfully avoided getting caught much of the time. He attended Ben Lomond High School and Weber State. He served in the US Army and was proud to be a veteran.

Wil was a successful businessman as the owner Advanced Paving and Construction. Through this he met countless friends. If you went somewhere with him, he always ran into someone he knew.

He was instrumental in the building of the Lantern House and proudly served on their board of directors.

He loved adventures, especially traveling. He explored the world any chance he could. Since retirement he could be found on his Harley with his friends traveling across the US. His hobbies included skiing, hunting, fishing, and just about anything outdoors.

His final adventure took him to Spain to walk the 500-mile French Way of the Camino de Santiago. He had completed eleven days at the time of his passing. A few loved ones will return to Spain later this month to retrieve his remains and complete the final 100km spreading his ashes along the way.

Wil was larger than life. His stature and voice commanded attention, yet he was the kindest and most generous person. You always felt safe when he was near.

He is survived by his children: Bart (Stephanie) van der Stappen, Mjika (Tommy) Conine, and Tyler van der Stappen. His sisters: Gerri Archuleta, Marianne Nelson, Mia (Rudy) Williams, and Hetti Jensen. His grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who all adored him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Antonius (Tonny) van der Stappen, and Duncan…his dog.

His children would like to invite you to an ice cream party to celebrate his life on Saturday June 17, from 6-9 pm. The Barn Golf Course, Pleasant View, Utah.