Bert A. VandenBos | Graphic artist, 60

Bert A. VandenBos, 60, of Willow Grove, a graphic artist, died of cancer May 31 at Abington Memorial Hospital.

Mr. VandenBos grew up in Grand Rapids, Mich. When he was 15 and summering in Holland, Mich., he dived into shallow water and was paralyzed from the neck down. With therapy, he regained some use of his arms but not of his legs or fingers. He learned to write and paint with a pen or a brush strapped to a palm.

Mr. VandenBos earned a bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University, where he met Marlene Hage. They married in 1978 and moved to the Philadelphia area in 1980 when he became an art director for Bible Centered Ministries. Later he established his own graphic-arts firm. Since 1999, he had been graphic artist for Handi Vangelism Ministries International in Akron, Pa. He was also an inspirational speaker for the organization.

His watercolors have been exhibited at local art shows. He enjoyed nature and the Jersey Shore, and loved painting lighthouses, his wife said. Despite his discomfort in his final days, she said, he told her, "God has given me abundant joy."

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two nieces.

A memorial service will be held at 10:45 Saturday at Chelten Baptist Church, 1601 Limekiln Pike, Dresher.