In the quiet hours of October 20, the world lost one of its brightest lights. Tina VanderWaal — known to many as a creative soul, a generous heart, a fierce mother, and a “Superwife” — passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord after a courageous 17-month battle with cancer. She was surrounded by love, faith, and the family she so cherished.
Tina’s life was a living mosaic of beauty, artistry, and selfless devotion. Married for 27 years to her husband, Dave, the two built not just a life together but a home full of laughter, learning, and unwavering love. Together, they raised three extraordinary children — Jakob, Olivia, and Grace — each of whom carries a part of Tina’s light into the world.
A gifted jewelry designer and creative mentor, Tina used her talents not just to create, but to inspire. She taught others to embrace their own spark, and in doing so, cultivated a community of beauty and bravery. Her holidays were legendary, her smiles unforgettable, and her heart limitless. She gave endlessly — to her family, to her friends, and to those walking the same difficult cancer journey she faced with such incredible grace.
Her family shares that throughout the long, often painful road of her illness, Tina remained a beacon of positivity — not just for herself, but for others. Even in the darkest days, she chose light, humor, and hope.
“Tina truly was the heart of our family,” Dave wrote in a loving tribute. “She brought light and joy to everything she touched. She was a laser beam of light to all who knew her.”
In the coming days, the VanderWaal family will share a Celebration Page where friends, loved ones, and admirers can honor Tina’s life and — if they feel led — contribute in her memory to a cancer organization close to the family’s heart.
Though Tina’s physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit — bold, brilliant, and full of love — continues to shine in the lives she touched. Heaven gains a radiant soul, and Earth holds its breath in sorrow and gratitude.
Tina VanderWaal was 52.
She is survived by her husband Dave; her children Jakob, Olivia (and husband Patterson), and Grace; and an extended community of those who were forever changed by her kindness, creativity, and strength.
May her light never dim.