John George Van Beynen
MARQUETTE, MI – John, or Van as he liked to be called, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, May 31st, 2026. He had just celebrated his 90th birthday with his wife, Ayleen, and seven children in April. John and Ayleen were to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary this summer.
He was an engaged father to his seven children, Charles (Debbie Hatcher), Joseph, Douglas, James (Brooke Geddie), Lynda (Perry Schermerhorn), Cynthia (Tom) Seiler and Sherrill (Steve) Retlick. He was grandad to 12 and great grandad to 5 along with many nieces and nephews.
John had a passion, he thoroughly enjoyed mathematics. A position at Northern Michigan University as an instructor brought his family to the Marquette area in 1967. He continued his educational advancements in mathematics. He retired after 30 years with the university.
Along with his classes he taught at NMU, he spent many hours in the K-8 classrooms across the Upper Peninsula developing and implementing his hands-on teaching approach. This approach often included blocks, yarn, coins or a deck of cards. Many elementary teachers gained new insights on strategies and models to enhance the classroom experience.
Professor Van Beynen was involved in many additional programs such as the Seaborg Center, in which select area students who demonstrated exceptional abilities and interest in mathematics would attend. He implemented the CSMP (Comprehensive School Math Program) into St. Michael’s School and some Marquette Public Schools. His involvement with MCTM (Michigan Council of Teachers of Mathematics) was extensive including being editor of the monthly Mathematics In Michigan newsletter.
When Van wasn’t in the classroom or traveling to a seminar or conference he enjoyed hiking with Ayleen and his children. Kayaking and flower gardening were also on the list. Although, even while engaged in his past times the gears were turning, thinking of new math activities and at the end of the day he would be putting his ideas to paper.
Van’s final gift to education was donating his body to the University of Michigan’s medical school.
The family is grateful for the support of Stacey, April and Ash from Home Health Care. We are also appreciative of Angela and Lisa from the Marquette Senior Center.
Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting John’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at canalefuneral.com.