By presenting this information we hope to assist those close to these families with planning for their service. If you have questions or comments about any of the information found on this page, please let us know by e-mail or telephone.

Mrs. Beulah Groenendyk,
, - February 07, 2010
Tracy, Iowa
Funeral services are pending at this time.
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Mrs. Rua Vander Linden,
August 23, 1931 - February 04, 2010
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Sunday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Sunday from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday, February 8 at 11:00 a.m. , at Second Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Rua Anita Alban was born on August 23, 1931 in Pilot Mound, Iowa to Neil Alban and Grace (Benson) Alban. She lost her father when she was very young and was raised by her mother and, for a time, her paternal grandparents. After graduating from Ogden High School at Ogden, Iowa in 1949, she attended nursing school at Iowa Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa and the University of Chicago in Illinois. Rua began her work as a registered nurse and instructor in Des Moines. She trained as an obstetrics nurse and loved working with mothers and babies. Rua met Lee Marvin Vander Linden of Pella, Iowa, a son of Martin and Lulu (Schakel) Vander Linden, in the late 1950’s and was married to him on January 10, 1960 at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Des Moines. Upon marriage, she left her nursing position and moved to the Vander Linden farm south of Pella, Iowa. She and Lee had two children, Keith Neil, born February 7, 1961, and Ann Kathryn, born April 9, 1964. In 1968 she moved with her family to 1431 Broadway Street in Pella. Rua’s husband, Lee, died on March 29, 1976, at the age of just 46 years. With two children in secondary school, she returned to nursing at Mahaska County Hospital in Oskaloosa, Iowa and worked there until 1993. Upon retirement, she remained active as a volunteer at the Pella Regional Health Center, at her church, Second Reformed Church in Pella, and elsewhere in the community. A long-time diabetic, she faced health-related issues throughout her life, but met with more serious health problems in the summer of 2009. After several months in assisted living and nursing care, she died suddenly, but peacefully, at the Pella Regional Health Center, on Thursday, February 4, 2010, at the age of 78 years, attended by compassionate staff whom she knew and cared about. She was preceded in death by her parents, her parents-in-law, her beloved husband, Lee, and two brothers, Keith and James Alban. She is survived by two brothers and their families, Ron and Carla Alban of Orland, California and Gary and Sharon Alban of Odgen, Iowa; and her two children and their families: Keith and Brenda (Roorda )Vander Linden of Grand Rapids, MI, Lukas and Christian; Ann and Grant Fee of Melcher/Dallas, IA, Natasha, Andrew and Lacey. She was acquainted with sorrow, but also joy. She was a quiet but active Christian throughout her life and laid her faith in things eternal. She doted on her five beloved grandchildren, loved her family and friends, and gave of herself to the community. She will be greatly missed.
The family prefers memorials for Second Reformed Church or the Pella Regional Health Center.
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Dr. Maxine Huffman,
August 18, 1928 - February 03, 2010
Pella, Iowa
Dr. Maxine C. (Fish) Huffman, 81, of Pella, Iowa passed away Wednesday evening at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House. Dr. Huffman was a former Professor of Biology and English at Central College and is survived by her husband, Dr. Donald M. Huffman; two children: James D. Huffman of Pleasant Hill, IA, Kimberley L. Huffman of Pella; and two brothers: John Fish of Raleigh, N.C. and Lance D. Fish of Des Moines, IA.
An Informal Gathering will be Sunday, February 28, 2010 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Graham Conference Center at Central College in Pella, Iowa. There will be no formal visitation or services.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Central College
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Rev. Henry Vermeer,
March 01, 1913 - January 24, 2010
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Thursday morning , at First Reformed Church
Visitation: family present ,Thursday from 3:00 to 5: 00 p.m. , at First Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Thursday, January 28 at 6:30 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Graveside Service: Saturday, January 30, 2010 , at Hull, Iowa
Henry J. Vermeer, a Servant of God, was taken to be with his Lord on Sunday morning, January 24, 2010, at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella, Iowa. The legacy of this faithful man of the covenant began on March 1, 1913 in Sioux Center , Iowa. He was the eldest of three children born to Jacob and Anna(Huitink) Vermeer. His formal education began in various schools in Sioux County, Iowa continuing at Northwestern Junior College in Orange City, Iowa, and Hope College in Holland, Michigan. Answering God’s call into Christian ministry, he began his training at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan. On August 10, 1939, he married Alberta Kooiker, daughter of Lubert and Pearl (DeWild) Kooiker. To this union, two children, Lorna Joy and James Henry were born. Henry and Alberta faithfully served in Falmouth and Moddersville, Michigan, Central Park Reformed Church, Holland, Michigan, First Reformed Church of Roseland, Chicago, Illinois, Hope Reformed Church, Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Hope Reformed, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Reformed Church, Denver, Colorado, First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa, and First Reformed Church, Hospers, Iowa, from where he retired in 1977. Henry was honored as “Minister Emeritus” from First Reformed Church in Pella. Henry and Alberta made additional places of residence were in Hull, Iowa, Bradenton, Florida and Vriendschap Village in Pella following their retirement. While in active pastorate, Rev. Vermeer served his denomination, the Reformed Church of America, and the kingdom of God on the following boards and agencies: RCA Board of Domestic Missions, Editorial Council of the Church Herald, Executive Council of the World Home Bible League, General Synod Executive Committee, Central College Board of Trustees, and Northwestern College Board of Trustees. Upon retirement he and his wife, Alberta, also served as senior pastor for retired ministers, spouses and missionaries in the Midwest region of the denomination. His love for Christ reflected Henry’s desire to preach and teach God’s Word and manifest his pastoral heart and love for people world wide. Those left to cherish his memory are his two children and their families: daughter, Lorna and Mike Schrier of Montgomery, Alabama,and their two children: Marc and Nancy Schrier and their daughter, Macie, of Carrollton, Georgia, Marylynn and Bruce Williams and their daughter, Holland Joy, of Prattville, Alabama; son, Jim and Pam (Menninga) Vermeer of Pella and their three children: Nicole and Brad Chiafos and their two children, Lily and Cooper, of Waukee, Iowa, Molly and Dustin Hugen of Chicago, Illinois, and Jonathan Vermeer of Pella; along with his sister-in-law, Johanna (Harvey) Vermeer, Sioux Center, Iowa and several nieces and nephews. Henry also leaves a loving friend and companion, Valda Vander Waal, of Pella. Henry was preceded in death by Alberta, his wife of 65 years, on October 10, 2004; his parents, Jacob and Anna Vermeer, his parents-in-law, Lubert and Pearl Kooiker, his sister ,Dorothy, and her husband George Addison, his brother, Harvey Vermeer, a brother-in-law, Arthur Kooiker and his wife, Billie, and a brother-in-law, Dr. Anthony Kooiker. Henry lived a full and active life of almost 97 years and was ready to (his quote) “Go to glory”. His witness can be found in II Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Rev. Henry J. and Alberta Vermeer Scholarship Fund at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, MI, the Hospice of Pella Comfort House, or KCWN Christian radio station in Pella, IA.
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Doris Geels,
, 1932 - January 23, 2010
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Tuesday afternoon , at Sully Christian Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Funeral Service: Wednesday, January 27 at 1:30 p.m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Interment: Sully Cemetery
Alberta Doris Jansen, a daughter of Evert and Gertie Fopma Jansen, was born on May 30, 1932, near Killduff, Iowa. She grew up on the farm near Killduff and attended a country school until 7th grade and finished the 8th grade at the Sully Christian Grade School in Sully, Iowa. She was baptized and made profession of her faith at the Sully Christian Reformed Church where she was a faithful, lifelong member. On December 29, 1953, she was united in marriage with Nelson Geels, a son of Rev. John and Betty Kempers Geels, at the Sully Christian Reformed Church in Sully, Iowa, and to this union five children were born: Gary Eugene, Beverly Jean, Norma Diane, Beth Joan and Bruce Nelson. Doris and Nelson lived near Lynnville and Kellogg, Iowa for a short time following their marriage and then moved into Sully where they raised their family. She held various jobs throughout her life which included daycare, housecleaning, and she was on the cleaning staff at the Central College Library. Then in January, 2009, Doris was diagnosed with a re occurrence of her colon cancer. Doris faced this diagnosis with the same quiet grace and courage that was evident throughout her life. On Saturday morning, January 23, 2010, at her home in Sully, at the age of 77 years, she completed her journey here on earth and met her Lord and Savior face to face. Those who will cherish her memory are her faithful husband of almost 57 years, Nelson; their five children and their spouses, 11 grandchildren and 2 step-grandchildren. They and their families are: Gary and Susan Geels of Panora, Iowa; Beverly and Mike Van Genderen of Lynnville, Iowa; Norma and Karl Bultsma of Waterloo, Iowa; Beth and David Van Maanen of Pella, Iowa; Bruce and Brenda Geels of Pella, Iowa.Of her original family Doris leaves the following brothers and sisters and their spouses: Charlie W. and Cornelia Jansen of Cutlerville, Michigan, Guysbert C. and Janet Jansen of Pella, Berdena E. and Junior Vos of Sully, Edwin E. and Arlyn Jansen of Cutlerville, Michigan, Wilma P. and Delmer Van Kooten of Pella, Melvin L. and Marilyn Jansen of Newton, Iowa; along with the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Lillian (Geels) and William Nikkel of Pella, Chester and Gretta Geels of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Barbara (Geels) and Stan Cole of Whittier, California, Betty (Geels) Lee LeFebre of Denver, Colorado, John and Linda Geels of Littleton, Colorado. Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Evert and Gertie Jansen; her parents-in-law, Rev. John and Betty Geels; her twin brothers, Edwin James and Earl Lester Jansen, who died at a young age, and her brother, Dick Rutford Jansen who died during World War II, and his wife Wilma Sparks. She was a loving and caring daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother. Doris was a great cook and enjoyed collecting dolls and reading. She loved sports and proudly followed her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting activities, as well as the Iowa Hawkeyes. Doris had a strong and simple faith and will always be cherished by those who loved her.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for ‘The Back to Hour’ radio ministry broadcast or Hospice of Pella, Iowa
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Dale D. Randol,
February 20, 1925 - December 31, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Monday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Monday 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, January 5 at 1:00 p.m. , at Pella Church of the Nazarene, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery with military honors
Dale Drew Randol was born on February 20, 1925, in Knoxville, Iowa. He was the youngest of two children born to Wilbur Cecil and Rea May (Pope) Randol. Dale attended the Knoxville Community Schools through the eighth grade.  As a young man he worked at the hammermill in Des Moines, Iowa grinding feed and loading sacks for delivery.  This work ethic remained with him.  Dale enlisted in the Army and served his country during World War II.  Dale was a surviving member of the Battle of the Bulge.   After the war, Dale returned to Knoxville and worked at the VA Hospital until the time of his marriage.  On May 29, 1946 he was united in marriage to Betty Miedema at Troy, Kansas.  Betty was a homemaker who made her home a happy one for her husband and two sons, Michael and Eric.  After marriage, Dale took advantage of the GI Bill and learned the carpentry trade.  Later he joined Robert F. Van Vark and formed Van Vark and Randol Construction.  They were both successful in this venture and were responsible for building many of the homes around Pella.  Dale retired at the age of 42, but didn’t quit working.  He would offer his assistance and advice, helping friends and neighbors with various building projects.  Betty died on March 15, 1972 at the University Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa.  On June 13, 1972, Dale and Grace Leola Knight were married at Pella, Iowa.  Grace’s two daughters, Shirley and Diane became a blended family with Michael and Eric.  After a life of retirement together, enjoying each others company and love, Grace fell ill and passed away on December 29, 2003 at the Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 80 years.  Dale later in life married Connie DeVries in 2004 and remained together until both of their health issues needed more attention. Dale became a resident of Hilltop Manor in Pella until moving to Griffin Nursing Home in Knoxville in 2007.  On New Year’s Eve of 2009, Dale passed away at the Knoxville Community Area Hospital at the age of 84 years.  Those left to cherish his memory are his two sons, two step daughters, and their families.  Mike and Kendra (Wineland) Randol of Pella, Iowa,Kelly and Dan Schakel,Brandon Schakel, Devin Pushor, Jordan Pushor,Chad and Tricia Randol,Tanner Randol, Brynn Randol; Eric and Debbie (See) Randol of Pella, Iowa,Pete Randol and Drew; Shirley and Ronald McCombs of Reasnor, Iowa, Ron Jr. and Macy McCombs,Don McCombs,Matt and Lisa McCombs,Mike and Julie McCombs; S. Diane and Mike Vos of Des Moines, Iowa,Dustin Dixon and Simon Vos. Dale was the last surviving member of his original family.  He was preceded in death by his three wives, Betty (Miedema) Randol, Grace (Long) Randol and Connie DeVries who died in 2009, three sons, Jimmy and Jerry Randol (twins) and Curtis Dale Randol, his brother Herbert Randol  and his parents.  Dale was a member of the Pella Church of the Nazarene and The Gideon’s.  Dale will be remembered for his Love and Devotion to his family and friends.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for The Gideon’s.
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Harold Den Besten,
June 25, 1920 - December 25, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Monday, after 11:00 a.m. December 28, 2009 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, 1:00 p.m. December 29, 2009 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery, Pella, Iowa, with Military Honors
Harold Den Besten was born on June 25, 1920, in Corsica, South Dakota. He was the third of five children of Gerrit and Fredreka Van Zee Den Besten. During the first years of his life Harold moved with his family to Holland, Michigan where his father founded the Holland Hitch Company, which is still in business. In 1929 the family returned to South Dakota and in 1937 moved to Pella, Iowa where Harold enrolled in the Pella Public Schools. He graduated from Pella High School with the Class of 1938. Harold served his country during World War II as a radio operator in the United States Army. His military commitment remained a very vital part of Harold’s life. Following his discharge he was visable and remained active with the Van Veen- Van Hemert American Legion Post No. 89 of Pella and had served as Commander in 1977 and 1978. In 1946, an only child, Timothy Den Besten, was born to Harold and Betty Vriezelaar Den Besten. After entering school at the age of 5 years, Tim suffered an attack of Polio-Encephalitis which changed his life forever. He is now a resident at the Marion County Care Facility at Knoxville, Iowa and has been a client at the Christian Opportunity Center in Pella for over 30 years. Most notably, Harold was widely known for establishing a Pella food route where as a jobber he sold Pella food products along with Hiland Potato Chips in the area. In 1960 he and Wilma Marie Van Dort, a daughter of Willem and Emma Branderhorst Van Dort, were married. Harold retired from his business in 1974 at which time he sold the business to Adrian Rozeboom. Harold and Wilma enjoyed many happy retirement years together and in 1973 they built an apartment house at 832 Franklin Street which they owned and operated the remainder of their married life. Upon his retirement Harold busied himself in a large variety of programs and projects to which he often was heard to comment he didn’t know how he ever had time to work. Some of these involved politics, the Pella Historical Society and the Pella Historical Trust. On Christmas Day, December 25, 2009, he passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of 89 years. Harold is survived by his wife, Wilma; his son, Timothy Den Besten of Knoxville, Iowa; his sister, Jeannette Jansen presently of Pella; a brother, Ivan Den Besten and his wife, Myrl of Bowling Green, Ohio; a sister-in-law, Alice (Fred) Den Besten of Holland, Michigan; along with 10 nieces and nephews. Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Gerrit and Fredreka Den Besten; and two brothers: Cornelius Den Besten and Fred Den Besten. Harold was a charter member of the Covenant Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa that was established in 1998 after a lifetime membership in Christian Reformed Churches and cherished his return to the church worship his parents knew and in which he grew up.
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Arletta Baarda,
June 04, 1915 - December 21, 2009
Formerly of Sully and Pella, Iowa
Visitation: one hour prior to the funeral service on Saturday , at Sully Community Church, Sully, Iowa
Funeral Service: Saturday, December 26 at 11:00 a.m. , at Sully Community Church, Sully, Iowa
Interment: Sully Cemetery
Arletta Mae Terlouw was born on June 4, 1915, north of Sully, Iowa in rural Jasper County, Iowa. She was the oldest of nine children that were born to John O. Terlouw and Phoebe Ann (Renaud) Terlouw. Arletta attended the Iron Clad country grade school through the eighth grade. In December of 1940 she moved into town and lived with her grandmother, Mrs. Charles Renaud, and cared for her in her home at 204 6th Ave. in Sully until her death in 1947. On January 13, 1953, Arletta was united in marriage to William Baarda in Sully. William’s first wife Almeda (Elscott) Baarda had died the previous year at the age of 45 years. Soon after their marriage they decided to reside in the house Arletta had maintained for her grandmother. Bill’s son, Marvin Lowell, then took over the farm and resides there still today. Arletta and Bill were faithful members of the Sully Community Church, where Arletta was active in the women’s service guild, conducted nursing home service meetings, and were active in the Senior Citizens group in Sully. Bible Camps and church mission work were especially important to both of them. Arletta was a seamstress for over 50 years. Bill passed away on June 16, 1994 at the age of 88 years. After Bill’s death, Arletta continued to live in Sully until moving to Hilltop Manor in Pella, Iowa in 2002. She resided there until she became a resident of Friendship Manor in Grinnell, Iowa in 2007. Arletta passed away peacefully on Monday evening, December 21, 2009, at the advanced age of 94 years, at the Grinnell Regional Health Center. Those left to honor her memory are her surviving family, they are: Marvin and Iva Baarda of Sully, Iowa, Craig and Sheryl Baarda, Ryan and Gina Baarda,Shykira, Camden, Logan,Shaun and Kristy Baarda,and Brooke; Melanie and Dennis Renaud, Sheila and Kyle Punt,and Chloe and Caleb, Tasha Renaud and fiancé Jared Yepsen; Rick and Debra Baarda, Clint and Michelle Crawford,Ben, Luke, Jordan and Jennifer Dean,and Emma, Tristan, Amanda and Lance De Vries and Hunter. Of her original family Arletta leaves a sister, Theda (Bernie) Fopma of Grinnell; her brother, Louis and his wife, Joan Terlouw of Pella, and two sisters-in-law: Marie (Henry C.)Terlouw of Pella and Barbara (Marion) Terlouw of Prairie City, Iowa. Arletta was preceded in death by her husband, William, a great- grand daughter, Keisha Dawn Renaud, her parents, her sisters: Martha (Fred) Willemsen, Jennie Marie (Clyde) Hurst, Isabelle (Garrit) Vander Weerdt, and her brothers: Henry C. Terlouw, Lloyd Terlouw and Marion Terlouw. Arletta was a loving and devoted wife, sister, mother and grandmother to William’s family, and faithfully witnessed for the Lord.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for Sully Community Church or the Bible League.
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Ernie Blom,
June 09, 1916 - December 19, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Monday , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present Monday, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Trinity Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Tuesday, December 22 at 1:30 p.m. , at Trinity Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Ernest Engle Blom was born on June 9, 1916, near Pella, Iowa, a son of Antonie M. and Josie Ver Ploeg Blom. As a young man Ernie worked on the family farm and when they were finished worked with the neighbors helping them finish picking their corn by hand. For a short time he worked for Maasdam Sorghum Company and also worked for Leonard Gosselink at South Woods Dairy. Ernie started 4-H at the age of 10 years showing dairy and beef cattle and swine at county and state fairs. In 1932 he received the Champion Milk Production Cow Award, milking his cow 4 times a day, winning him a trip to Wisconsin. Later in life he was a 4-H leader working with young people for several years. Ernie operated and owned South Woods Dairy farm south of Pella where he milked 50 cows by hand, bottled the milk and delivered it with a horse and wagon. He had one hired man and one college student part time. Ernie met Mary Jane Vroom at the Central Park Café in Pella where she was a waitress and he was selling milk at the time. Mary Jane later took a job in Oskaloosa, Iowa working for a lawyer as a housekeeper. After dating for 2 years they were united in marriage on May 8, 1940, at the home of her parents, Catherines J. and Jennie Dykstra Vroom, near Oskaloosa. Ernie and Mary Jane went to Missouri for their honeymoon and to this union four children were born: Eugene Ernest who was stillborn in 1941, Betty Jean in 1942, James Anthony in 1946 and Phillip Ernest in 1956. Ernie and Mary Jane farmed south of Pella and continued operating the South Woods Dairy until moving south of Monroe, Iowa. In 1966 they purchased a farm south of Otley, Iowa and 2 years later he started with the Carnation Cattle Breeding Company. After a couple of years it became a fulltime position so he sold the farm and they moved to Pella. After 10 years in the cattle breeding business he trained farmers to artificially inseminate their own herd. His son, Phil, eventually took over the business and Ernie worked as a salesman for Pella Feed & Grain. At the age of 65 years Ernie took up golfing as a hobby along with his playing cards and fishing. He and Mary Jane took a trip to Holland, Germany, Switzerland and Austria. For several years during the winter months they lived in Arizona. In 1995 Ernie started selling Bovine Genetic Products and Sweet Pro Cattle Feed with his son, Phil, up until a few years ago. In year 2000 Mary Jane’s health necessitated additional supervision and care due to signs of dementia. Ernie entered the hospital in 2001 and Mary Jane became a resident at the Westridge Nursing & Rehab Center in Knoxville, Iowa. Ernie kept busy selling feed, golfing, fishing and playing cards, living a very active life. They had worked hard together all their married life, first in their dairy business, then farming and agricultural sales. Mary Jane passed away on January 5, 2008, at the age of 87 years. They were privileged to enjoy 67 years of married life together and on Saturday morning, December 19, 2009, Ernie passed away at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella at the age of 93 years. Those who will cherish his memory are 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. They and their families are: Betty and her husband, Howard Van Der Pol of Monroe, IA; Douglas and Joni Van Der Pol of Ledyard, IA, Kristina,Jenna,and Olivia Van Der Pol; Julie and Dave Harrington of Ankeny, IA, Ashley,Brooke, and Ryan Harrington;Jim Blom of Otley, IA,Stuart Blom of Colorado Springs, CO, Jason and Michelle Blom of Moro, IL, Jake and Kayleigh Blom, and Matthew Blom of Knoxville, IA; Phil Blom of Columbia, MO, Cody Blom Kerr of Florida, Jessie Blom of Columbia, MO. Of his original family Ernie leaves his two sisters and a brother: Helen (Elmer) Vander Waal, Lawrence Blom and his wife, Irene all of Pella, Lenora and her husband, Albert Pleima of Leighton, Iowa; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Vernice (Vroom) and Paul Ter Louw, John and Muriel Vroom all of Pella, Wayne and Shirley Pitman of Barnes City, Iowa. Ernie was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jane, his stillborn son, Eugene; a granddaughter, Debbie J. Van Der Pol who died of burn injuries at the age of 2 years in 1972, a grandson, Donald L. Van Der Pol who died of injuries received in an industrial accident in 1987 at the age of 20 years; his parents, A. M. and Josie Blom; his parents-in-law, C. J. and Jennie Vroom; his brother-in-law, Elmer Vander Waal; a sister-in-law, Margaret (Vroom) Pitman; and a brother-in-law, Henry Grootveld. Ernie was baptized and made profession of his faith at the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella. He and Mary Jane were members of the Prairie City Christian Reformed Church at Prairie City, Iowa, the Otley Christian Reformed Church in Otley and the Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella before becoming members of the Trinity Reformed Church in Pella where they were members at the time of their deaths.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for the Building Fund of the Trinity Reformed Church
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Jan Van Wyk,
October 15, 1943 - December 19, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Tuesday after 2:00 p.m. , at First Baptist Church
Visitation: family present, Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at First Baptist Church
Funeral Service: Wednesday, December 23 at 1:30 p.m. , at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Janet Kay Shill was born on October 15, 1943, at Marshalltown, Iowa. Her mother was the former Wilma Lorene Hoover and her father was Leonard Earl Shill. While Jan’s mother was pregnant with her, her father passed away and Jan remembered being spoiled by her paternal grandparents, Grandpa Pete and Grama Mabel Shill. Harley Ray Van Wyk had moved to Gilman, Iowa and Jan wrote him a note on his first day of school. Soon they went on a double date and on September 8, 1961, they were united in marriage at Gilman. A special memory of their wedding day was a friend had written ‘help’ on the bottom of Harley’s shoes so when he knelt it would be seen. Jan and Harley’s marriage was made strong by always making-up after disagreements and special by raising four children: Sandra Renae, who was born on February 13, 1962, Jeffery Todd born on February 12, 1963, Teresa Dawn born on July 2, 1964 and Connie Lea, who was born on April 6, 1966; and eventually a granddaughter, Kassondra Marie Van Wyk, who was born on November 27, 1983. Jan had numerous outside employment, as well as being a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She had worked at various locations including the Rolscreen Company, the Pella Motor Inn and Super 8 in Pella, Iowa and was a distributor of Avon and Tupperware Products. Her most recent position was as the Secretary for the First Baptist Church in Pella from which she retired and for the past 40 years was a co-owner of Van’s Outboard. Jan was a talented cake decorator and enjoyed spending time with her family, attending church and community functions and watching for wildlife. She and Harley’s friends went on many motorcycle and snowmobile trips together. Their family vacations and family get-togethers were a special memory of Jan’s. Her faith only became stronger with the untimely deaths of two of their children: Jeff Van Wyk, who was killed in a motorcycle/truck accident on September 1, 1984 and Sandi Hansen, who passed away of colon cancer on November 2, 1991. On Saturday, December 19, 2009, she passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of 66 years due to liver and kidney failure. Those who will cherish her memory are her faithful husband, Harley; two daughters and their husbands: Terri and Merlin Rozenboom and their two sons, Todd and James of Centennial, Colorado, Connie and Keith Hoksbergen and their five children: Brandi, Susan, Brittney, Taylor and Wesley of Pella, Iowa; and a granddaughter, Kassi Van Wyk, who was raised like a daughter. Of her original family Jan leaves her half- sister, Marge Coppock, a half-brother, Dale McGrew and his wife, Sue, and her sister-in-law and her husband, Christine (McGrew) and George Nash all of Marshalltown, Iowa; along with the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Jerald and Dorothy Van Wyk of Pella, Sylvan and Gina Van Wyk of Rapid City, South Dakota and Dennis Van Wyk of Lomita, California; her step-mother-in-law, Marjorie (Herbert) Van Wyk of Pella; and many nieces and nephews. Jan was preceded in death by two children, Jeff Van Wyk and Sandi Hansen; her father and mother, Leonard Shill and Wilma (Shill) McGrew; her step-father, Elbert McGrew; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Herbert and Marie De Kock Van Wyk; two half-brothers: Keith McGrew, who died as an infant and Gary McGrew; and a brother-in-law, Marvin Van Wyk. Jan became a baptized member of the First Baptist Church in Pella on Easter Sunday, April 19, 1992, where she remained an active, faithful member. She will always be remembered as a warm, caring person.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred for the Jan Van Wyk Memorial Fund in honor of her needs and wishes.
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George Carson,
November 11, 1926 - December 18, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Monday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: Visitation with the family present , Monday from 5 :30 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: Masonic Service at 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, December 22 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella with military honors
George William Carson was born on November 11, 1926, at Pella, Iowa. He was the youngest of three children that were born to Henry and Dora Junella Van Vark Carson. George received his formal education at the Pella Community Schools in Pella and graduated from Pella High School with the Class of 1944. George enlisted in the United States Air Force during World War II and was discharged in January, 1947. On May 5, 1951, he was united in marriage with Louise Maxine Rysdam at the home of her parents, Gerald and Artie Gaass Rysdam in Pella. To this union two children were born: Steven George and Mary Patricia. George and Louise made their home in Pella their entire married lifetime. George worked briefly for the Rolscreen Company in Pella and then started with the City of Pella. He continued working in the electrical department for the City of Pella for 50 years. He became a volunteer with the Pella Volunteer Fire Department and for 12 years served as Fire Chief. George was a member of the Pella Amateur Radio Club and was a storm spotter for the National Weather Service. He was a member of the Van Veen-Van Hemert American Legion Post No. 89 of Pella, the Pella Masonic Lodge No. 55 A.F. & A. M. and the First Baptist Church. During his retirement George thoroughly enjoyed driving out by Lake Red Rock and watching eagles and other wildlife. George never stopped tinkering and during his entire lifetime he was an innovator. On Friday, December 18, 2009, he passed away at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 83 years. George is survived by his son, Steve and his wife, Laurie Paschal Carson of Boulder, Colorado, his daughter, Mary Carson, who made her home with George and a special granddaughter, Alyssa Louise Carson. Of his original family George leaves just a brother-in-law, Harold E. Vos of Inverness, Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise M. Carson, who passed on November 24, 1976 at the age of just 45 years; his parents, Henry “Skillet” and Dora Carson; his parents-in-law, Gerald and Artie Rysdam; his two older sisters and their husbands: Carol and Bert Van Dusseldorp, Bertha and Harold (Brown) Vande Noord; and a sister-in-law, Patricia (Rysdam) Vos. George appreciated music and liked Dixieland. He will be remembered for his quick wit and humor and enjoyed chatting with everyone he met.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for the Pella Community Foundation or the First Baptist Church in Pella, IA.
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Neoma Ruffridge,
July 24, 1927 - December 09, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: visitation will start Sunday morning December 13, 2009 at the funeral home where the family will be present from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m.
Funeral Service: Monday, 1:00 p.m. December 14, 2009 at Peace Lutheran Church in Pella.
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery
Neoma Marie Anderson was born at Decorah, Iowa on July 24, 1927. She was the youngest of six children that were born to Theodore and Clara Helgeson Anderson. Her grandparents immigrated from Norway and when the story about the settlement of Iowa was aired on television during the Bicentennial, they were featured on the film. Neoma received her grade school education at the Winneshiek Country Grade School and graduated from Decorah High School. Neoma attended Luther College to obtain enough credits to teach school. She taught in a one-room country school near Highlandville, Iowa for four years. Neoma was introduced to Norman Sylvester Ruffridge, a Pearl Harbor survivor who had just been discharged from the United States Navy, by his brother, Orville Ruffridge. Neoma and Norman were united in marriage on May 30, 1948, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. To this union two children were born: Rhonda Louise and Rodney Lee. Following their marriage Norm began managing the Veterans of Foreign Wars Club in Decorah. In 1952 they moved to Moline, Illinois where he was employed at the arsenal and later for Illinois Gas and Electric and Neoma worked in the office of Deere and Company. They returned to Decorah in 1959 where Norm did construction work with Neoma’s brother, Gerhard Anderson. Neoma and Norm then ventured to Pella, Iowa and purchased an A & W franchise. Neoma and Norm built their restaurant in 1961 and continued to own and operate the A & W Family Restaurant in Pella until 1997. During this time, Neoma and Norm spent the winters in Arizona and would always return in the spring, ready to serve some good home-cooked meals. Neoma and Norm enjoyed traveling together and were privileged to travel to England, Spain (three times), Hawaii and Rio De Janiero. Their last trip to Arizona together was in 1999. Upon their return Norm was admitted to the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Knoxville, Iowa where he passed away on September 22, 2002 at the age of 83 years. Neoma enjoyed playing bridge and was a member of the Pella Golf & Country Club. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and had been a member of the Iowa A & W Association. She was baptized as an infant at the Burr Oak Lutheran Church and made profession of her faith at the Ridgeway Lutheran Church as a teenager. At the time of her death she was a member of the Peace Lutheran Church in Pella, Iowa. On Wednesday, December 9, 2009, she passed away the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of 82 years. Neoma is survived by her two children: Rhonda and her husband, Jaime Perez of Dover, Pennsylvania and Rodney Ruffridge of Otley, Iowa. Neoma was the last surviving member of her original family. She leaves a brother-in-law, Jerome Soukup of Moline, Illinois; two sisters-in-law, Fern (Ruffridge) Dungey of New Hampton, Iowa and Virginia (Ruffridge) Nelson of Portage, Wisconsin, and a brother-in-law, Palmer Ruffridge of Decorah. Neoma was preceded in death by her husband, Norman; her parents, Theodore and Clara Anderson; her parents-in-law, Frank and Cora Barth Ruffridge; and all brothers and sisters: Gerhard Anderson, Joseph Anderson, June (Jacob) Gallagher, Beatrice (Wallace) Halse and Ceceil Soukup.
Memorials may be given for the Peace Lutheran Church in Pella.
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Tena Dykstra,
August 15, 1921 - December 05, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Monday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present Monday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, December 8 at 1:00 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery, Pella, Iowa
Tena Tolsma was born on August 15, 1921 in Stickney, South Dakota, as the seventh child of Dick and Sipke De Boer Tolsma. Her parents both emigrated from Friesland in the Netherlands and made their living by combining farming with her father’s work in a butcher shop. Although most would view the farmhouse that lodged their large family as tiny and humble, her father always proclaimed that it was Paradise! His enthusiasm and great sense of humor transferred to each of his children so although life was hard and frugality was a necessity as the family worked to survive especially during the Great Depression, the Tolsmas was a close fun-loving family. The family faithfully attended the Reformed Church in Stickney as did neighboring families and relatives many of whom had also immigrated to this area from Holland. Tena was a bright and enthusiastic student at their little country school where she especially excelled in reading and spelling. She often shared stories of the fun they had walking the long distance to school and how it was sometimes necessary to have the horse pull the sled in the winter. With her family unable to afford schooling beyond the 8th grade, she began doing housework for others; she also helped her older sisters care for their children. When her fiancé was killed in World War II, she decided to join her older sister Jessie in Denver, Colorado. The two worked for the Samsonite luggage company and roomed with a family from the First Reformed Church there. It was at the church youth group gatherings that she met John James Bandsma. The two were married on June 26, 1946. Although he’d just graduated from the University of Denver, Jim was working with his father doing construction work. When they learned they were expecting their first child, Jim used the hours after work and weekends to build their first home and completed it just before Beverly was born in 1948. They added two other daughters: Nancy in 1949 and Peggy in 1953 and Tena delighted in being a housewife and mother. The family was active in the First Reformed Church and most of their social life revolved around activities and friendships there. She was a wonderful hostess and friends and family always enjoyed warm hospitality and meals at her house. She was a skilled seamstress and her house was always immaculate. With a growing family to support, Jim began a varied career in human resources and once her daughters were in school, Tena also worked part-time at a J.C. Penney store and then later at the Bethesda Hospital in the dietary department. The family spent a lot of time enjoying the mountains; most weekends found them enjoying picnics there. Summer vacations found them in South Dakota, traveling throughout the western states, or in Colorado mountain resorts. It was Jim’s desire that all their daughters graduate from college and Tena supported this goal especially in light of her own shortened education. All three daughters began their college educations at Central College, met their husbands there, and somewhat to Jim and Tena’s dismay, ended up living in Iowa rather than returning to Denver. As each of their daughters’ families made their way to Denver both in the summer and each Christmas special times were spent shopping, enjoying the mountains, and cheering for the Broncos. In 1980, Jim accepted a job in Boise, Idaho a city they soon loved. While with this company, they also lived in San Francisco and Astoria, Oregon. They moved to Pella, Iowa, in 1986 to be close to their daughters following Jim’s cancer diagnosis. The couple enjoyed activities at the First Reformed Church and Tena quickly became an active member of both the Central College and Pella Hospital Auxiliaries. Jim passed away on May 23, 1988. Tena married Rev. Kenneth A. Dykstra in 1990 and quickly became his helpmate in ministry as he served as a minister of calling at the First Reformed Church in Pella and the First Christian Reformed Church in Oskaloosa, Iowa as well as many other churches as a guest pastor. They enjoyed winter stays in Arizona and Texas until their health began to decline. In recent months, Tena battled many health issues but her sense of humor stayed intact. Everyone who met her or was a part of her care commented on what a sweet person she was. A victim of multiple health issues that could not be resolved, she was admitted to the Hospice of Pella Comfort House on December 1, 2009 and passed away there peacefully on December 5, 2009 at the age of 88 years. Left to mourn her passing are her three daughters and their spouses: Bev and Dennis Brass in Pella, Nancy and Ken Borgman in Indianola, Iowa and Peggy and Mac Smith in Huxley, Iowa. She is also survived by her eight grandchildren: Jory (Amy) Brass, Lisa (Rick) Ross; Brad (Sandi) Borgman, Jeff (Tsinia) Borgman, and Steve Borgman; Kent (Madelaine) Smith, Lindsay (Kyle) Mann, Kelsey (Austin) Williamson. She also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Owen Ross; Cate, Finn, and Nolan Borgman; Emmett Borgman; Grant Smith; and Carter and Grady Mann. Her sister Jessie Refnes in Sacramento, CA as well as three sisters-in-law, Shirley Tolsma in Mitchell, SD, Pauline Tolsma in Stickney, SD and Virginia Josephson in Homedale, ID and numerous nieces and nephews also survive her. Also surviving her is her husband Rev. Kenneth Dykstra presently of Urbandale, IA and his three children Mark Dykstra, Lois Gates, and Paul (Nancy) Dykstra and their families. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband Jim, her brothers Ray, Gerben, and Lawrence, and her sisters Emma VandenHoek, Jennie Van Genderen and Minnie Jansen.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for Ames Christian School, Ames,IA, or AIDS orphan fund at Peace Lutheran Church, Pella, IA or Hospice of Pella Comfort House, Pella, IA.
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Carol "Vee" Van Vark,
June 21, 1918 - December 04, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Public visitation will be Sunday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: Family visitation, one hour prior to the funeral , at Second Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Monday, December 7, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. , at Second Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Carol Vee Van Vark was born on June 21, 1918, at Pella, Iowa. She was the first of two children that were born to Clarence W. and Hazel Marguerite Veenstra Van Vark. Vee, as she was known, attended the Pella Public Schools and graduated from Pella High School. She attended the University of Iowa at Iowa City, Iowa for one year where she obtained her teaching certificate. Vee taught school at North English, Iowa for two years and then at Woodrow Wilson in Des Moines, Iowa. She then worked in the insurance industry as a secretary in Los Angeles, California. Vee was employed with Marsh McLennan for 38 years. She retired in December of 1983, after residing in the Los Angeles area and returned to her hometown, Pella, Iowa. Vee became a resident in the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center in February of 2007 where she resided the remainder of her lifetime. She passed away there on Friday morning, December 4, 2009, at the age of 91 years, 5 months and 13 days. Vee is survived by a sister-in-law, Margaret (Allen) Van Vark; and a nephew and his wife, Greg and Lynn (Bokelmann) Van Vark and their family: Teresa and Todd Cummings and their two children, Sydney and Clayton Cummings and Jonathan (J.R.) Van Vark all of Pella, Iowa. Vee was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence W. and Hazel Van Vark; her brother, Robert C. Van Vark and his first wife, Betty (Stevenson) Van Vark; and a niece, Diane Van Vark. Vee was baptized and made profession of her faith at the First Reformed Church in Pella. At the time of her death she was a member of the Second Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa.
For those desiring, memorials may be given to the charity of choice.
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Bob Glendening,
October 07, 1934 - December 03, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Visitation will follow memorial service December 05, 2009 at Third Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: 1:00 p.m. December 05, 2009 at Third Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Robert Riley Glendening was born on October 7, 1934, in University Park, Iowa. He was  one of twelve children that were born to William Riley and Florence Magerkurth Glendening. Bob, as he was known, graduated from high school at Burlington, Iowa and received his Masters Degree in Engineering from Northwestern in Evanston, Illinois.  Following his graduation he proudly served in the United States Navy. On October 23, 1954, he was united in marriage with Dolores Elaine Frueh at Park Ridge, Illinois. To this union twin daughters were born on July 6, 1955, Marjorie Anne and Martha Lynne. Bob and Dolores continued to live in Park Ridge where Bob was a salesman in the Chicago area. He and his family moved to Pella, Iowa for the first time in 1980 and returned to Pella in 1986 where Bob was self-employed in the Pella area.  On April 23, 1992, Dolores passed away at the age of 61 years. In May of 1993 he was united in marriage with Vivian Marie (De Heus) Van Maanen. Bob continued in sales and in 2005 became  the commercial sales manager for Stravers Hardware. He loved working on his computer and was an avid reader who used the Pella Public Library extensively. Late Wednesday evening, December 2, 2009, he passed away at the Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 75 years. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Vivian, and their blended family. They are: Marjorie Moore of  Riverside, Iowa,Katie and Joey Conrad, Alyssa, Landon Conrad, and Dustin Moore,Taylor Moore, Jackie Moore Martha and Jerry  Knickerbocker of Auburn, Michigan, Kelly Beelman,  Jeremy Knickerbocker,Matthew Knickerbocker;(Curtis Van Maanen) Cathy  Soroka of Huxley, Iowa, Alex, Erica and Anna Van Maanen; Tim and Lucia Van Maanen of Leighton, Iowa, Jesse, Keegan, Tanner, Haylie and Noah Van Maanen; Sam and Lisa Van Maanen of Pella, Iowa,  Sarah, Aaron and Ryan Van Maanen; Russell and Amy Van Maanen of Cambridge, Iowa,Max, Mollie Van Maanen; Ben and Cheri Van Maanen of Coppell, Texas,Shelby, Peyton Van Maanen; Martin and Julie Van Maanen of San Luis Obisco, California, Seth Van Maanen, Ensley, Zack and  Abby Allmon; Andrew and Shiela Van Maanen of Parker, Colorado, Preston Carda, Drew and  Rhiley Van Maanen; Matthew  Van Maanen of Cedar Rapids, Iowa Of his original family Bob leaves  four sisters: Dorothea (Fred) Rehling of Abingdon, Illinois, Juanita and her husband, Clarence Den Adel of Pella,  Arlene Rossetti and John Postma, and Shirley (Don) Wilkins all of Galesburg, Illinois; a step-sister, Martha Ruth and her husband, Edward Calkins of Advance, North Carolina; a sister-in-law, Connie (Jerry) Frueh of Pella; and a host of nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores Glendening; a step-son, Curtis Van Maanen; his father and mother, Riley and Florence Glendening; his step-mother, Flossie Glendening; his father-in-law and mother-in-law,  Herbert Henry and Emma Marjorie Matlock Frueh; a brother, Edward Glendening who died in infancy, his brother and his wife, Howard and Helen Glendening;  and the following sisters and their husbands: June and Newton Barnes, Lucille and R. E. Riceman, Bobbie and Hal Williams, Marguerite and  Carl Hoambrecker, Betty and Gail Bowlyow; and three brothers-in-law: Fred Rehling, Donald Wilkins and  J. Gerald (Jerry) Frueh. Bob loved his family.
Memorials may be given for the Carnegie- Viersen Public Library in Pella, Iowa
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Greta Mount,
June 14, 1914 - December 03, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Public visitation will be Thursday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family visitation, one hour prior to the funeral on Friday , at Second Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Friday, December 11 at 11:00 a.m. , at Second Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Greta (Korver) Carver, the only child of Garrett and Estella (Carpenter) Korver, was born on June 14, 1914, in East Peru, Iowa. Greta’s father, Garrett, was the son of Dutch immigrants, (Simon Korver and Gertrude Vander Myde), who came to Pella, Iowa around 1850 and her mother Estella’s parents and family (George and Minerva Carpenter) had lived in the Pella area and had been active in farming since the early 1800’s. Greta grew up spending time in Pella and had many fond memories of Pella then and in more recent years. Greta’s parents were motivated by religious convictions and always acted with kindness and generosity to others. They loved Greta very much and had high aspirations for her life. When it was time to start school, Greta’s parents felt that the best opportunity would be in Des Moines, Iowa. So, the family moved there and Greta attended grade school and graduated from North High School as a member of the National Honor Society in 1931. Greta’s family felt that education was an important tool and so with the goal of becoming a teacher, Greta obtained a B.S. in Education from Drake University in 1934, (Kappa Delta Pi honorary society), a M.S. in Education from Drake University in 1940. She also pursued additional graduate study over the years at Columbia University, University of Wisconsin, Northwestern University and Northern Illinois University. Greta majored in English and Latin and later in Business Education. She taught in Hamilton, Iowa, Panora, Iowa and Davenport, Iowa, Moline, Illinois and later in Highland Park, Illinois. While attending Drake University, Greta met her future husband, Roy Edgar Mount, in an English class. After a lengthy friendship and courtship, Greta and Roy married on July 25, 1944, in Prescott, Arizona, where he was serving as a Staff Sergeant with the United States Army Air Corps and later with the Iowa National Guard. After Roy completed his active service to his country in 1945, Greta and Roy moved to the Davenport, IA/Moline, IL area where Roy was an advertising account executive for John Deere and Greta was Dean of Girls at John Deere Junior High School. When their family started with the birth of Margaret Adelle they moved to Des Plaines, Illinois so that Roy could pursue his career in advertising in Chicago, Illinois, where he was very successful and retired as vice president and creative director in 1976. Meanwhile, when Roy Edgar Mount, Jr. was born, the family moved to Highland Park, Illinois so that the best possible school opportunities for their children would be available. Greta went back to teaching in 1956 at Highland Park High School. This time she taught business education subjects. Greta was a master teacher who loved to teach and took special interest in her students. She was very determined to be the best she could be as a teacher and mentor for her students, gave tirelessly of her time and support for them, and helped them to turn her high expectations for them into their own. From 1971 to 1973 she served as Secretary and Vice President of the Chicago Area Business Education Association. She retired from teaching in 1976 after thirty-three years of dedicated service. Greta and Roy moved to the Pella Manor in Pella, Iowa in 1978. They maintained this Pella residence as well as other homes in Vail, Colorado and Mesa, Arizona and enjoyed their retirement and the splendor of the seasons by spending time in each of these places throughout the year. On November 20, 2000, Greta and Roy moved into the Long Term Care Unit of the Pella Regional Health Center. Greta was a loving wife and shared a mutually committed marriage with Roy for fifty-six years until his death on December 9, 2000. Greta continued to live in the Long Term Care Unit on Team 4 for nine years during which time she took a genuine interest in and felt great affection for the staff. In return for the kind care they gave to her, it was important to her to give encouragement and goodwill back to them. Although she grew weak over the last few months, she still managed a smile and a kind word until she passed away to be with her Lord on December 3, 2009, at the advanced age of 95 years. As a mother, Greta directed all of her love and energy to providing the best for her children, Peggy and Ed. She was an inspirational role model to her children in her determination, in spite of health challenges, and dedication to her family as well as her concern for and interest in all those with whom she came in touch. But most of all, they are grateful for her consistent demonstration of love and selflessness in her actions. She also loved her four granddaughters, Lindsay Kay, Melissa Estelle, Elizabeth Ann Mount and Jera Alexandra Davis, and always encouraged them to be the best they can be. Left to honor and be inspired by Greta’s memory are her daughter, Margaret and her husband, Jerrell K. Davis and their daughter, Jera Alexandra of Taos, New Mexico and her son, Roy Edgar (Ed) Mount and his wife, Janet (Mauk) of Newton, Iowa and their three daughters, Lindsay Kay, Melissa Estelle, and Elizabeth Ann. Greta was preceded in death by her father, Garrett, who passed away in 1943, and her mother, Estella, who passed away in 1971, by her husband, Roy, who passed away in 2000, and her father-in-law, Edgar Alexander Mount in 1951 and her mother-in-law, Ada Levinia (Wright) Mount in 1978. All of us will miss her very much. Greta was a remarkable wife, mother, grandmother and human being who gave of herself and her love selflessly and endlessly. We have been truly blessed to have been part of her life.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for Hospice of Pella, Iowa.
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Gary Matice,
August 20, 1942 - November 26, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Sunday after 12:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present Sunday from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday, November 30 at 1:30 p.m. , at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Gary Gene Matice was born on August 20, 1942, at Keokuk, Iowa. He was an only child born to Maxwell Joseph and Hazel Lee Dunsworth Matice. Gary graduated from Hamilton Elementary School at Hamilton, Illinois and Hamilton High School. While in high school he was a pitcher on the baseball team and played a coronet in the high school jazz band. Gary then continued his schooling at Davenport Barber College in Davenport, Iowa from where he graduated in 1961. Through a mutual friend Gary met Nancy Karen Hanan and on September 3, 1961, they were united in marriage at Keokuk. Gary and Karen made it through the early lean years of their marriage raising their two children, Sheri Lynn and Troy Alan, and enjoyed sharing their activities together as a family. Gary was a barber at Tulip City Barber Shop for Henry Roush in Pella, Iowa from 1962 until 1973. In 1973 he became a mechanic for Vermeer Sales of Iowa and later worked in the parts department until he retired in August of 2004. Gary and Karen made the decision together to enjoy life while they could even before they retired. Mechanics was more than a way of living for Gary. For several years he ran Enduro Go-Kart Racing with Charles Koopman, Howard Duinink, Dale Coop and Sid De Haan. Gary had run several marathons at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa and they enjoyed snowmobiling and camping at Roberts Creek near Pella. They began boating at Lake Red Rock on the Des Moines River, at the Lake of the Ozarks, and with friends on the Ohio River. Gary had begun studying and playing golf in the early 60's. Since 2005 Gary had worked in golf cart maintenance as well being a golf ball retriever at Dogwood Hills Golf Resort at Osage Beach, Missouri. He enjoyed the friendships made there as much as playing in the golf league. Gary and Karen thoroughly enjoyed the time they spent together and by themselves at Osage Beach. They were planning to travel there on Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2009, when Gary passed away unexpectedly at the age of 67 years enroute to the Pella Regional Health Center that morning. Gary leaves behind his wife, Karen of Pella; his daughter, Sheri L. Matice of Otley, Iowa; his son Troy A. Matice and his wife, Jami (Johnson) of Pella and their two children: Kayla Renee Matice of Cedar Falls, Iowa and Lane Alan Matice at home; his father, Max Matice, a resident in the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center; a sister-in-law: Vicki (Hanan) Roller of Pella and a brother-in-law, Jim Hanan and his wife, Glenda of Keokuk .Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Hazel Matice, who passed away June 13, 1997 and a brother-in-law, Rey Roller. Gary was baptized at the First Christian Church in Hamilton, Illinois and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Pella, Iowa.
Memorials may be designated for the First Baptist Church in Pella, Iowa
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Verle Ver Dught,
October 12, 1911 - November 23, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Tuesday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present Tuesday evening from 5:30 to 7:00 , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Wednesday, November 25 at 10:30 a.m. , at Second Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Verle Frank Ver Dught was an only child born to David and Cora DeBruyn Ver Dught. He was born on October 12, 1911, at Pella, Iowa. He attended the Pella Public Schools and graduated from Pella High School with the Class of 1929. While in high school he played basketball, baseball, football and participated in track, earning a varsity letter in each sport all four years. Verle enrolled at Central College in Pella where he attended for 3 ½ years. While at Central College he also participated in all four sports and lettered in each sport all three years except for basketball; he was, however, a member of the “Wonder Squad” in basketball for four years. Verle’s father, a double amputee below the hips due to diabetes passed away in 1933, and his death prohibited Verle from continuing his education at Central College. He then entered his insurance business, known as Lautenbach and Ver Dught Insurance. On March 7, 1935, he was united in marriage with Hilda Valida Chrisman, whom had met on a blind date. They were married at Historic Valley Junction in Des Moines, Iowa; trust, honest and good communication were attributes of their special marriage. Verle and Hilda became the parents of two daughters: Sally Jo, who was born on May 31, 1936 and Margaret Kay, who died soon after birth on September 8, 1940. In April of 1944 Verle enlisted in the United States Navy. Verle served in the Pacific as a landing craft operator aboard the USS Haskell and made three landings on the enemy held islands, in Okinawa, Leyle Gulf and the Philippines. After serving in the Pacific, he was transferred back to the United States to Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts where he took a course in disposal of war surplus goods. Lt. Verle Ver Dught was honorably discharged at Minneapolis, Minnesota in March of 1946. Following his discharge Verle returned to Pella and continued in the insurance business. Verle ultimately purchased the business which became his life’s work and continued to own the business until his retirement in 1974. During this tenure Verna Van Dyk was a significant contributor to the success of the business. Verle was dedicated to his country and devoted to the community of Pella. He served as a Commander of the Pella American Legion of World War II and continued to be a member of the Van Veen-Van Hemert American Legion Post No. 89 for over 60 years. He was the oldest, living member of the Pella Masonic Lodge No. 55 A.F. and A. M. and was also a member of the Des Moines Lodge where he attained the rank of 32nd Degree Mason. Verle was a charter member of the Pella Noon Kiwanis Club and a charter member of the Pella Community Hospital Board of Directors. At the age of 12 Verle began playing golf. He solicited door to door to make the Pella Golf & Country Club a reality and ultimately became a charter member of the present country club. Verle, along with his wife, Hilda, were both past golf champions at the Pella Golf & Country Club. Verle continued to enjoy the sport until he quit at the age of 92 years. Verle had been a faithful, loyal member of the Second Reformed Church in Pella where he was baptized and made profession of his faith in March of 1926 and supporter and contributor to Central College. Verle contributed to the new cross country course at Central College that was dedicated to his wife, Hilda, his great-grandsons and him. Verle was also responsible for starting a scholarship fund at Central College for students in the Science Department to aid students in their studies. Verle and Hilda enjoyed traveling together to Holland, France and Germany and loyal to their heritage; following their retirement they enjoyed a winter home in Mission, Texas, where they could pursue their favorite sport, golf, and a ‘happy hour’ in Mexico. Hilda passed away on July 20, 2006, at the age of 91 years. Verle was able to continue to reside in his residence in Pella until he passed away early Monday morning, November 23, 2009, following a short stay at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella. He attained the advanced age of 98 years, one month and 11 days. He was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Hilda, his two daughters, Margaret Kay in 1940 and Sally Jo Cook, who died on July 8, 1991 at the age of just 54 years; his parents, David and Cora Ver Dught, and his parents-in-law, James and Hattie Johnson Chrisman. Those who will cherish his memory and remember his genuine and generous spirit are his four grandchildren: Cristi Elaine and her husband, Charles Puyear, of Pella, Iowa; Dr. Rory Lee of Denver, Colorado; Rhonda Linn Kincaid of Springfield, Missouri; Laura Jo Cook of Jefferson City, Missouri; twin great-grandsons: Micah Puyear of Pella and Joshua Puyear and his wife, Linnae of Boulder, Colorado; a great-grandson, Jeremiah Casada of Springfield, Missouri; and one great-great-granddaughter, Madison Casada. Family, institutions and the community of Pella, Iowa were lifetime recipients of Verle’s generosity.
Memorials may be designated for the Hospice of Pella Comfort House
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Sally Stice,
April 25, 1939 - November 14, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Graveside Service: 2:30 p.m. November 17, 2009 at Oakwood Cemetery
Sally Ann Hugen was born on April 25, 1939, at Oskaloosa, Iowa. She was one of two daughters that were born to Ray Earl and Anne Lucille Bloom Hugen. Sally graduated from Pella Public High School in Pella, Iowa with the Class of 1957. Following graduation she was employed at Bankers Life in Des Moines, Iowa for a short time and then began working at the Rolscreen Company in Pella. Sally was united in marriage with Robert Stice and to this union one son, Brian Dean, was born. Sally lived the remainder of her life in Pella and for 22 years was employed in the kitchen at the Pella Community Hospital. An early retirement found Sally reading, doing crossword puzzles and attending garage sales. On Saturday morning, November 14, 2009, she passed away at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella at the age of 70 years. Sally is survived by her son, Brian, and her sister, Marlene Hugen of Pella. She was preceded in death by her parents, her father, Ray Hugen, who passed away in July of 1977 and her mother, Anne Hugen, who passed away   in August of 1996. Sally had a sweet and caring way about  her and will be remembered for her giving spirit.
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Charlotte Beyer,
August 30, 1920 - November 14, 2009
Zeeland, Michigan
Visitation: Friday, November 20, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Friday, November 20 at 1:00 p.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Waveland Cemetery at Prairie City, Iowa
Goodyk was born on August 30, 1920. She was the daughter of Johannes and Sadie Spoelstra Goodyk. Charlotte married Albert Beyer on February 14, 1940 at Sully, Iowa. This union produced five children: Gene Edwin, an infant son, Mary Ann, John Rolland and Julie Elyn. Following their marriage Charlotte and Albert farmed near Prairie City, Iowa. In 1950 they moved to Pella, Iowa and in 1960 they moved to Oskaloosa, Iowa where Albert operated service stations. Eleven years later they moved to Michigan. They resided in Grand Rapids until moving to Muskegon. Albert passed away in 1985. Following his death Charlotte moved to Jenison, Michigan where she lived until moving to Zeeland. Zeeland, Michigan was her residence the remainder of her lifetime where she was cared for until the time of her death. She passed away on Saturday morning, November 14, 2009, at the age of 89 years. Charlotte is survived by her children: Gene and Bonnie Beyer of Benson, Arizona, Philip Kinnisten who lives in North Carolina, John and Stephanie Beyer of Holland, Michigan, and Julie Aumueller of Grand Rapids, Michigan; as well as her grandchildren: Sandra (Beyer) Nederveld, Gary Beyer, Matthew Kinnisten, Andrew Kinnisten, Jonathan Beyer, Claire Beyer, Jessica Aumueller, Christopher Aumueller; and ten great-grandchildren. Three sisters : Adrianna (Gerrit) Roose of Pella, Iowa, Johanna Spykerman of Holland, Michigan and Louise (Wilbur) Nikkel of Pella survive her along with a brother-in-law: Joel Spykerman of Holland, and three sisters-in-law: Freda (Wiebe) Goodyk and Esther (Case) Goodyk both of Pella, and Gertrude (Peter) Goodyk of Newton, Iowa; as well as numerous nephews and nieces. Charlotte was the last remaining member of her generation in her late husband Albert’s family. She was preceded in death by him, an infant son, her daughter, Mary Kinnisten, who died in 2003, a daughter-in-law, Joyce (Gene) Beyer who died in 2002; her parents, Johannes and Sadie Goodyk; her five brothers: Wiebe Goodyk, Cornelius Goodyk, Peter Goodyk, Henry Goodyk and his wife, Betty, Jacob Goodyk and his wife, Wilma; a sister, Tena (Gerrit) Roose; and two brothers-in-law: Gerrit Roose and Wilbur Nikkel.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Holland, Michigan
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Grace De Hamer,
May 31, 1913 - November 12, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Sunday morning , at Van Dyk -Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. , at Van Dyk -Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday, November 16, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church in Pella
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery in Pella
Grace Bertha De Jong was born on May 31, 1913, near Pella, Iowa. She was the fourth of nine children that were born to Peter G. and Antonetta Dykstra De Jong. In 1921 the family moved to a farm north of Leighton, Iowa. Grace attended the Black Oak No. 6 Country Grade School from which she graduated. On August 27, 1935, she was united in marriage with Peter J. De Hamer at the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella. To this union three children were born: Marilyn Jean, John Leroy and Ronald Eugene, who was stillborn on April 14, 1950. Grace and Peter farmed all their married life in the Pella, Harvey and Eddyville, Iowa areas. Grace enjoyed cooking and doing yard work and together she and Peter enjoyed camping and traveling. Following their retirement, they moved into Oskaloosa, Iowa in 1962. During this time Grace was employed in the food department at the Camair Convalescent Home for 13 years. In June of 2001, they moved to Pella for their assisted living needs. Peter became a patient at the Pleasant Park Estates in Oskaloosa in October, 2001, and passed away there on February 12, 2002, at the age of 90 years. Following his death Grace became a patient at the New Sharon Nursing Home in New Sharon, Iowa and in 2007 was transferred to the Crystal Heights Care Center in Oskaloosa. Grace was cared for the remainder of her life and passed away on Thursday afternoon, November 12, 2009, at the advanced age of 96 years, 5 months and 11 days. Those who will cherish her memory are her daughter, her son and daughter-in-law and their families. They are: Marilyn J. (Gerald J.) De Jong of Pella, Iowa;Cyndi and John Keen of Scottsdale, Arizona, Carissa, Lauren, Ryan and Sarah Keen; Scott and Leann De Jong of Ankeny, Iowa,Emily, Brittany and Zachary De Jong; Renee and Kent Ferguson of New Sharon, Iowa,Nolan, Hannah and Maggie Ferguson:John J. and Marjorie (Bokhoven) De Hamer of Eddyville, Iowa; Mary Lou and Rick Doty of Oskaloosa, Iowa,Leasa Doty,Emma, Savanna Simmons; Kristin and Sherwin Plate,Natalie Plate;Arlene and Randy Vonk of Oskaloosa, Iowa,Greg, Brandon, Amber and Jennifer Vonk; Teresa and Dan Augustine of Rose Hill, Iowa,Emily, Ryan Augustine: Larry and Barb De Hamer of Eddyville, Iowa,Megan, Joslyn De Hamer. Of her original family Grace leaves two sisters: Charlotte De Jong and Esther (Leonard) Vande Lune both of Pella; her only brother, Gilbert De Jong of Leighton, Iowa; and a sister-in-law, Cornelia (De Hamer), Mrs. Henry Van Whye of Oskaloosa, Iowa. Grace was preceded in death by her husband, Peter J. De Hamer; her stillborn son, Ronald Eugene De Hamer; her son-in-law, Gerald J. De Jong; her parents, Peter G. and Antonetta De Jong; her parents-in-law, John K. and Janna De Ruiter De Hamer; five sisters: Pearl (De Jong), Mrs. Merle Van Steenis, Clara De Jong, Nina De Jong, Mabelle (De Jong) and her husband, Russell Van Arkel, and Ada De Jong; her sisters-in-law: Dorothy (Gilbert) De Jong and Mary Lou, Mrs. Merle Van Steenis; her brothers-in-law: Merle Van Steenis and Leonard Vande Lune; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Lavina (De Hamer), Mrs. Henry Van Whye, Jennie (De Hamer) and Gerrit Wielard, Mary (De Hamer) and Robert Vande Kamp, Margaret (De Hamer) and Floyd Uitermarkt, and Henry Van Whye. Grace was baptized and made profession of her faith at the Ebenezer Reformed Church in Leighton, Iowa. In later years she became a member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa where she was a member at the time of her death.
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Peter Slycord,
September 25, 1924 - November 09, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Wednesday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Wednesday 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Thursday, November 12 at 11:00 a.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Peter James Slycord was born on September 25, 1924. He was one of nine children that were born to Leonard and Elizabeth (De Koning) Slycord. On September 2, 1948, he was united in marriage with Anna Mae Vink, a daughter of John and Anna (Schuring) Vink Jr., and they were blessed with four sons: John Lee, William Jay, Ronald Alan and Donald Wayne. Pete and Anna Mae lived east of Pella, Iowa near her parents home place for 42 years. During this time Pete farmed and operated a tree service. They later built a new home there and had lived there for the past 20 years while Pete was employed as a night watchman for Vermeer Manufacturing Company. Pete always had a good sense of humor and had an appreciation for the simple things in life, a lifestyle he and Anna Mae observed all their 61 years of married life. Pete and Anna Mae made the vow of living together until death do us part. They were privileged to do just that in their own home until just this past October. On October 26, 2009, they became residents at the Westridge Nursing & Rehab Center in Knoxville, Iowa where Pete passed away on Monday morning, November 9, 2009. He attained the age of 85 years, one month and 14 days. Those who will cherish his memory are his loving and faithful wife, Anna Mae Slycord, three sons and their wives, four granddaughters, one grandson and two great-grandchildren: John and Marie Slycord of Pella, Iowa; Bill and Florence Slycord of Pella, Iowa; Don and Marcia Slycord of Pella, Iowa. Of his original family Pete leaves one brother, Andrew Slycord of Marshalltown, Iowa , a sister, Magolena and her husband, Bob Fuerst of Newburg, Iowa; and a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Junella (Vink) and Myron Beerends of Pella, Iowa. Pete was preceded in death by his son Ronald Slycord and his wife, Deb; his parents, Leonard and Elizabeth Slycord; his parents-in-law, John and Anna Vink; and the following sisters and brothers: Johanna Slycord and Mary Jane Slycord who both died at a young age, Annie (Bert) Hol, Katie (Petersma) Vander Horst, Cornie (Dorothy) Slycord and Walter (Dorothy) Slycord. Pete was a longtime member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa. He will be remembered as a loving and faithful husband and dad and a No. 1 grandpa.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for Hospice of Pella.
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Dr. Suzanne Wallace,
June 01, 1946 - November 04, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Memorial Service: Sunday, November 8 at 3:00 p. m. , at Central College Chapel, Pella, Iowa
Dr. Suzanne Marie (Brown) Wallace, PhD, 63, of Pella, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday afternoon at her residence in Pella. Dr. Wallace, a former Professor of Economics at Central College in Pella, is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Wallace and her partner, Anastasia Karson, and her son, Richard Wallace and his wife, Darlene, all of Spokane, Washington. .
For those desiring, memorials are preferred for ACLU or Doctors Without Borders.
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Sarah Mathes,
December 15, 1907 - October 20, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Friday morning , at Van Dyk - Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: 1:30 p.m. October 23, 2009 at First Reformed Church
Interment: Graceland Cemetery
Sarah Mathes was born on December 15, 1907, north of Pella, Iowa. She was the second of ten children that were born to John N. and Jeannette Vos Mathes. Sarah graduated from the European No. III Country Grade School and spent her days as a youth on the family farm north of Pella. Being the oldest daughter in this large family, Sarah patiently spent time caring for her younger siblings. This virtue was evident the remainder of Sarah’s life. Sarah worked at several country homes around the Pella area and for many years she and her sister, Agnes Mathes, were employed at the Home for the Aged. Sarah was also the receptionist in the offices of Dr. H. C. Vander Meulen, a physician and Dr. Wormhoudt, a dentist in Pella. Following her retirement she and sister Agnes continued living in Pella and in 1993 they moved into Fair Haven East. During her retirement Sarah spent many hours making quilts for Missions. She also enjoyed sewing, doing handwork, as well as crocheting afghans. Sarah was a lifelong member of the First Reformed Church in Pella and attended church services faithfully as long as her health permitted. On Tuesday afternoon, October 20, 2009, she passed away at the Oskaloosa Care Center in Oskaloosa, Iowa at the advanced age of 101 years, 10 months and 5 days. Those who will cherish her long life are her brother, Ervin Mathes and four sisters: Esther Slykhuis, Mable De Vries, Evelyn Beyer, Edith Huyser and her husband, Irvin, all of Pella, Iowa; along with several nieces and nephews. Sarah was preceded in death by her parents, John and Jeannette Mathes; and the following brothers and sister, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Valentine and Jennie Mathes, William and Beulah Mathes, Harold and Pauline Mathes, Agnes Mathes, Johanna (Ervin) Mathes, Herman Slykhuis, Edward De Vries and Arie Beyer. Sarah was a gentle, kind and caring person and will be forever cherished in the hearts of her family.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for the First Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa
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Pat Zylstra,
December 28, 1938 - October 20, 2009
Sully, Iowa
Visitation: begins Friday after 11:00 a.m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church
Visitation: Friday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Saturday, October 24 at 10:30 a. m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Interment: Sully Cemetery at Sully, Iowa
Patricia Ann Bandstra was born on December 28, 1938, at home near Knoxville, Iowa. She was the first of four daughters that were born to Paul P. and Bertha Heyveld Bandstra. Pat was six years of age when her parents moved to Sully, Iowa where she attended the Sully Christian Grade School. Pat graduated from Pella Christian High School in Pella, Iowa with the Class of 1957. On March 4, 1958, she was united in marriage with Rolland Duco Zylstra at the Sully Christian Reformed Church in Sully where she and “Duke”, as he was known, made profession of their faith together that year. Pat and Duke spent two years of their marriage in El Paso, Texas while Duke served with the U.S. Army and during this time they were blessed with a son, Timothy Paul, who was born on February 2, 1961. Duke owned and operated Zylstra Express in Sully where Pat was the secretary for many years. At the present time she was semi-retired. Pat loved raising and tending her flowers. She and Duke loved to travel and going to places to enjoy Southern Gospel music. Her semi-retirement was abruptly brought to an end when she underwent major brain surgery on September 11, 2009, and their plans for subsequent treatments were not to be. Pat passed away on Tuesday afternoon, October 20, 2009, at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella, Iowa at the age of 70 years. Pat’s first love was God, her family and grandchildren. Her family includes her husband, Rolland “Duke” Zylstra, their son, Tim Zylstra and his wife, Lori (Sward); three grandchildren: Benjamin Zylstra and his wife, Jennifer ( Floden) and their three children: Maddison, Mackenzie and Kyliee, Bethany Zylstra and her fiancé, Chase Tanke, and Bartholomew Zylstra all of Sully. Pat enjoyed watching her grandchildren play sports. Pat leaves two sisters and their husbands: Karen K. and Stanley Witzenburg of Sebring, Florida, Velma R. and Stanley Bogaard of Pella, and a brother-in-law, Lester Klyn and his wife, Linda, of Pella. The following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law are also surviving: Rev. Martin G. (Carol) Zylstra of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Johanna (Ludolph) Zylstra of Sully, Evelyn (Ivan) Zylstra of Grand Rapids, Harriet (Robert) Zylstra, Quintin and Alice Zylstra of Pella, Seymour “Zeke” and Carla Zylstra of Sully, Joan “Joey” and John Bandstra of Pella, Bertha “Berts” and Jim Talsma of Colfax, Iowa, Revena and Frank Gritters, Linda and Donald Rus, Art and Verna Zylstra all of Pella; along with many nieces and nephews. Pat was preceded in death by her parents: her father, Paul P. Bandstra, who died on May 22, 1971, at the age of 56 years, her mother, Bertha Bandstra, who died on March 23, 1991, at the age of 76 years; her sister, A. Joyce Klyn, who died on October 31, 1996, at the age of 56 years; her parents-in-law, Reink and Johanna Rolffs Zylstra; three brothers-in-law: Ludolph, Ivan and Robert Zylstra; and a sister-in-law, Carol (Martin) Zylstra. Pat was baptized at the Second Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa and since making profession of her faith had been a faithful member of the Sully Christian Reformed Church in Sully, Iowa. She helped teach Sunday School and Gems and was a past member of the Sully Christian School Circle. Pat will be remembered as a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister.
For those desiring, memorials are preferred for Hospice of Pella, Iowa
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Keith Vande Krol,
June 24, 1944 - October 15, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Sunday morning until noon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family visitation will be Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. , at Liberty Evangelical Free Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Monday, October 19 at 1:30 p. m. , at Liberty Evangelical Free Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella with military honors
On June 24, 1944, Keith Dwayne Vande Krol was born on a farm at New Sharon, Iowa, to Glen and Nola Fern (Monsma) Vande Krol. Keith began his education at the Lynn Grove No. 7 Country School near Taintor, Iowa, and graduated from Lynnville-Sully High School in Sully, Iowa, with the Class of 1962. At the young age of just 16, his life was changed when his father, Glen, passed away suddenly at the age of 43 years. Keith loved the farm and loved being outdoors, but living on the farm ended when his father passed away. In 1965, Keith enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He served as a communication specialist at the Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, Nebraska during the Vietnam War and was discharged in March of 1967. He later enrolled at Central College in Pella, Iowa, where he attended for two years and pursued a mortuary science degree. On May 17, 1968, Keith and Nellie Joan Verhoef were united in marriage at the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella. Keith and Joan were blessed with two children, Keith Dwayne on October 9, 1970, and Teresa Lanell on August 25, 1972. Dwayne and Teri's fondest memories of their dad was his devoted support for them and his pride in their accomplishments, as well as his sense of humor. Keith had a magnetic personality that augmented a successful career in sales. He was a salesman for Van Gorp Manufacturing in Pella and then became the first employee for Precision Pulley. Keith saw Precision Pulley grow and enhanced its growth from its beginning in 1978. He became the sales manager and helped build the company to its present level of success. Keith's last employment was with Superior Equipment in Morris, Minnesota. In October of 1998, Keith was diagnosed with brain cancer. This diagnosis forced an early retirement. Keith was the master of one liners, stories, and jokes, and coped with his diagnosis by writing a booklet which was an inspiration to others. He was also an inspiration by visiting those who were sick and in the nursing home. He would often provide pet therapy by taking his golden retriever, Baily, to visit in the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella where his faithful wife, Joan, was a Director of Nursing. Keith strongly believed that to get through the hard times in life, you had to have four things: 1. Faith in God, 2. Positive attitude, 3. Sense of humor, 4. Support of family and friends. He enjoyed reading, Southern gospel music, and spending time with family and friends. Special times were spent with his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jeanette and Roger Jansen, and friends, Tim and Joan Lucas. Keith loved the Lord and accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior as a youth while attending the Sully Gospel Chapel and was baptized at Rock Creek Lake. He cherished his dad's Bible and devotional books. Keith was a member of the Liberty Evangelical Free Church at Pella. On Thursday morning, October 15, 2009, Keith passed away at his residence at the age of 65 years. Keith was dutifully and lovingly cared for by his wife of 41 years, Joan, and leaves his two wonderful children, their spouses and four beautiful granddaughters: K. Dwayne and Lori (Mattusch) Vande Krol and Emma Kay and Josie Grace of Clive, Iowa; Teri and Jason Petrin and Elizabeth Katherine and Gabrielle Marie of Woodbury, Minnesota. Keith is survived by his mother, Nola, and step-father Keith Emmert of Pella; his older special sister, Dorothy (Vande Krol) and her husband, Merlyn Vander Leest of Pella; a younger twin sister and brother, Judy (Vande Krol) and her husband, David Minnick of Nevada, Iowa and Jerry Vande Krol of Manson, Iowa. He also leaves his father-in-law, William Verhoef of Pella and the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Bill and Shirley Verhoef of Otley, Iowa; Jeanette (Verhoef) and Roger Jansen of Pella; Harry and Linda Verhoef of Pella; Marjorie (Verhoef) and Mark Van Haaften of Otley. In addition, Keith is survived by the following step-sisters and step-brothers: Jan (Emmert) and Rich Yost living in Florida; Jo (Emmert) and Joe Julian living in Colorado; Jim and Karen Emmert living in Pella; Jeff and Susan Emmert living in Texas. There are many nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles and a host of friends. Keith was preceded in death by his father, Glen Vande Krol, on July 10, 1960, and his mother-in-law, Nellie (Griffioen) Verhoef on March 16, 1993. Keith's life was marked by his strong faith, sense of humor, and courageous battle against his illness. Keith will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred for the Pella Regional Health Center for staff education programs.
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Jo Van Ekeren,
May 05, 1923 - October 12, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Beginning at Noon on Thursday with the family present from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. October 15, 2009 at Van Dyk - Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Friday 11:00 a.m. October 16, 2009 at First Baptist Church
Interment: Graceland Cemetery, Pella, Iowa
Mildred Josephine Reeg was born May 5, 1923, to Ed L. and Nellie (Morrison) Reeg in Glover, North Dakota. Early in her life her family moved to Iowa where her childhood schooling began in Catholic schools and later attended Oskaloosa High School in Oskaloosa, Iowa. On October 27, 1940, she was joined in marriage to Alvin Van Ekeren in Lancaster, Missouri. The reminder of her life was spent in Pella, Iowa. In 1941, a son, Ronald Alvin, was born. Alvin served his country on a Naval Ship in the Pacific during World War II. During this time Jo, as she became known, was expecting their second child, a daughter, Gloria Jean. Jo managed herself and the children alone until his return. She was an ambitious and practical young woman and soon she became a working wife and mother. Her first employment was as a seamstress in the Overall Factory in Pella. When an office job became open at the Rolscreen Company (Pella Corp), she borrowed an old typewriter, practiced her high school typing skills, interviewed and secured what would be her lifetime career. She continued working, growing and improving her skills. When Pella Corp formed distributors through out the country, Jo was the contact person for ordering windows for the Western United States territory. She prided herself in her service and her association with Pella Corp during her 33 year career and retired in 1988. Upon retirement Jo decided to learn how to golf and play bridge. While she progressed with her desires to learn, she also acquired many dear friends. With these friends, she later traveled across the globe as well as the United States. Near to her 80th birthday, Jo survived a bout with lymphoma. This was a shock to her as she had never had a serious illness and she was proud of her health when compared with those younger then she. In retirement she volunteered, supported and was active in the Pella Business Women’s Club. Jo especially enjoyed working at the Tulip Time Craft Market that was held in the West Market and was sponsored by the Business Women’s Club. The last ten years she shared her and her family’s lives with a trusted friend and companion, Dick D. Van Zante. They spent many winters in Texas and other travels, as well as sports, activities and playing bridge. She was a hard working lady and despite the efforts of her family to make life easier for her, she insisted that she could stay in her own home in the country, continuing to care for her flowers and lawn. In November of 2008, however, she reluctantly allowed her family to move her into an apartment at 212 Idaho Drive, closer to her activities and family. Jo spent her remaining days on her own until she succumbed to the second bout of a different type of cancer. Early Monday morning, October 12, 2009, she passed away at the Pella Regional Health Center at the age of 86. The memory of Jo will remain forever with her family. Those that she leaves behind include her son and his wife, her daughter and her husband, five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. They are: Ron and Linda (Steenhoek) Van Ekeren of Laramie, Wyoming; Jeane and Larry Nossaman of Pella, Iowa. She is survived by a sister and brother- in- law, Helen and Lee Deck and a half sister, Muriel Gualco of Warsaw, Missouri; a sister-in-law, Darlene (Van Ekeren) Hamilton of Oskaloosa, Iowa and several special nieces and nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Van Ekeren, on January 29, 1986, her father and mother, Ed and Nellie Reeg, and a half-brother, Logan Stoudt .
Hospice of Pella
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Edgar Van Arkel,
September 15, 1922 - October 11, 2009
Visitation: Beginning Wednesday Noon with family present from 5:30 -7:00 p.m. October 14, 2009 at Van Dyk - Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Thursday 10:30 a.m. October 15, 2009 at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Pella, Iowa
Edgar Van Arkel was born on September 15, 1922, on a farm south of Pella, Iowa. He was the youngest of six children that were born to John and Gertrude Koopman Van Arkel. Ed’s mother passed away on October 24, 1924 and he and his siblings then went to live with uncles and aunts. Ed lived with Uncle Jim and Aunt Elizabeth Van Dusseldorp until he was 13 years of age. As a young lad Ed helped his “Daddy” Van Dusseldorp in his General Merchandise Store and when his Aunt Elizabeth Van Dusseldorp passed away he went to live with his Aunt Mary Koopman. Ed spent lots of time playing with neighbors and they even built a bicycle and tree house. The tree house was truly a disaster and his Aunt Mary Koopman said “Eddie, you’ll never be a builder unless someone teaches you to build a house neater that yours.” He always had very fond memories of the days he lived with Aunt Mary. Ed graduated from Pella High School in 1940 and then attended Central College in Pella for two years where he received his teaching certificate. He received his Elementary Education Degree from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. His first teaching assignment was at Union School west of Tracy, Iowa. He continued teaching at various country schools, Barnes City, New Sharon and Knoxville, Iowa. In 1952, Ed was married to Eva Mae Van Wyngarden at the old First Baptist Church in Pella and she passed away on April 18, 1957. Following 13 years of courtship, on June 27, 1970, he was united in marriage with Theola Marie Henrichs at the new First Baptist Church in Pella. Ed and Theola met while they were both teaching elementary education at Knoxville. Their relationship remained strong while they each pursued their respective careers. They were each independent yet did most things together and maintained a strong personal connection. Ed and a friend then opened the Checkerboard Café on the east side of the square in Pella and later operated the Holland House Restaurant. After a few years he went back to teaching for the North Mahaska Schools. Teaching was always in his blood; students and parents would often say, “Mr. Van Arkel made learning fun.” In 1980 he retired from teaching and opened a small business called, DeWinkeL op De Hoek (The Store on the Corner), a consignment shop selling all homemade items. Theola often helped in the shop when she was not teaching. They eventually closed the shop and he retired again in 1986. Ed then became a fulltime volunteer and continued to enjoy all kinds of volunteer work. He volunteered as a greeter at the Information Windmill, as a host at the Pella Historical Village in the Delft Room, in honor of his high school English teacher, Mr. Maurice Birdsall, clerking at Work of Our Hands, and working at the snack bar at the Pella Regional Health Center. Ed had Central College students stay with him for several years and for many years sold tickets at various athletic events for the Pella Community Schools, particularly basketball games. Ed was truly a devoted member of the First Baptist Church following his baptism. He sang in the church choir for 65 years. He was often in charge of clean-up following ice cream socials and the Harvest Supper. He was faithful in addressing and mailing birthday cards to every member of the church for many years. Ed enjoyed traveling and had fond memories of his trips to Europe. Another pastime for Ed was crocheting and gardening. He grew up having flowers and plants around him. Ed was admitted into the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center in December of 2007. He spent lots of his time there outside in the flower garden and patio. Last fall Theola arrived at the Long Term Care Center to find dirt all over the bed, the floor and him. He was found holding a straggly petunia plant he had “rescued” from the garden at the care center. He was afraid the plant would not survive the upcoming frost. Ed was very proud of living in Pella and treasured any article of clothing with the Pella insignia printed on it. Late Sunday night, October 11, 2009, he passed away there at the age of 87 years. Ed is survived by his faithful and devoted wife of 39 years, Theola, several nieces and nephews and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude and John Van Arkel; his Uncle and Aunt Jim and Elizabeth Van Dusseldorp and Aunt Mary Koopman; and all of his brothers and sister and their spouses: OlaMae and Dale Messamaker, Case and Inez Van Arkel, Joe and Ruth Van Arkel, Gerald and Betty Van Arkel, Robert and Robinette Van Arkel.
First Baptist Church or Hospice of Pella
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Mrs. Jennie Ver Meer,
April 07, 1923 - October 08, 2009
Memorial Service: 10:30 a.m. October 12, 2009 at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Interment: Pella, Iowa
Jennie De Ronde Ver Meer was born April 7, 1923, the youngest daughter of Arie and Hendrieke De Ronde. She grew up on their family farm near Galesburg and was baptized and attended Galesburg CRC as a child. Growing up Jennie loved riding the horses that her brothers trained. She was known to have the fastest gaited horse in the neighborhood. Later the family joined the First CRC of Pella. It was there she met and fell in love with Harold Ver Meer. They were married January 1, 1942. They moved to Plain View Farm in the spring of 1945, here they raised their children Mary, Andrea, David and Ann. Jennie and Harold became charter members of Calvary Christian Reformed Church. She was active in the Willing Workers Society and taught 1st grade Sunday school for many years. She and Harold, John and Edna Boender, and Dale and Ruth Gosselink were member of the committee that started the outdoor worship services at the North Overlook area of Red Rock Lake. Every summer these services drew hundreds of worshipers. 4-H was important to the family and she served on the Marion County Extension council while her children were members of the Lake Prairie Club. She enjoyed helping them with their projects and brought home blue ribbons herself with baking and knitting exhibits in the open class. A highlight of her life was standing at the baptismal font at the church in Auds Losdrect, Holland, where her father was dedicated to the Lord, and finding his name in the church registry. After struggling to understand the Dutch of the rest of the country she understood perfectly the dialect of this village. It was the same as she heard from her father as he read her the Dutch newspaper that came to their home every week. Jennie loved interior and dress design, often staying up sewing till the wee hours of the night. Her daughters would wake up in the morning and find a beautiful prom dress hanging in the doorway. She was an associate teacher for seven years in the preschool department during the initial years of Christian Opportunity Center. At the time she worked there, it was a school for special need children, a passion of hers for she loved children. Working with dear friends Betty Hovey, Judi Menninga and Ruth Santee. After her retirement she had more time to concentrate on her flower gardens. She especially enjoyed raising roses & lilies and so appreciated Derek Groendyk helping her with her yard and flowerbeds. She loved to read and instilled that love in her family. She researched and ordered books for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always finding the book that personally interested them and encouraged their faith in Jesus. Harold and Jennie were avid campers. The favorite location was area 7, lot 20 at the Iowa State fair. Never missing the event for 50 years, they enjoyed having the grown children camp beside them, watching them compete at the horse show and sharing food and laughter with state fair neighbors as well as all the family. After 65 years of marriage Harold passed away at the Comfort House on July 19, 2007. Jennie continued to live in her home, enjoying her beautiful garden. She was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by her 4 children; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; one brother, Bob De Ronde and wife Dorothy of Pella and 1 brother-in-law, Peter Rus. Jennie’s family: Mary and Lyle Borg – Pella, Iowa, Andrea and Jim Balmer - Iowa City, Iowa, Dave and Debbie Ver Meer – Columbus, Ohio, Ann and Dave Oglesby - Iowa City, Iowa. Jennie was preceded in death by her husband, Harold, an infant grandson Andrew Oglesby, parents, Arie & Hendrieke De Ronde and the following brothers and sisters: Jacob and Nick De Ronde, Johanna (Raymond) Van Heukelom, Dora (Peter) Rus, Neal and John De Ronde.
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Louise Sabin,
February 16, 1921 - October 02, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: visitation begins Monday afternoon , at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present Monday from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. , at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, October 6 at 11:00 a.m. , at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Graveside Service: Wednesday, October 7 , 2009 , at
Interment: Armstrong Grove Cemetery at Armstrong, Iowa
Louise Gezel was the youngest of seven children that were born to George and Edith Lillian (Porter) Gezel. She was born on February 16, 1921, at Pella, Iowa. Louise was educated in the Pella Public Schools where she graduated from Pella High School. During her academic years she learned to play the violin and began whistling at different events in Pella and the surrounding area. Her Grandmother Porter really didn’t care for her whistling and often said, “a whistling girl and a crowing hen always come to a bad end.” Louise and Luverne Ellis Sabin were introduced to each other by a cousin of his and on February 23, 1950, they were united in marriage at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa on a cold and snowy day. To this union three children were born: Miles Eugene, Duane Ellis and Vesta Louise. Louise and Luverne began raising their children together near Armstrong, Iowa. Luverne worked as a welder and then at the very young age of just 42 years he passed away of cancer in 1957. Luverne served his family well as a father and provider and his country honorably during World War II. Louise became a single parent and the sole provider for the family. Soon thereafter they returned to Pella where she began cleaning houses and ironing shirts. Although it was basic work it provided for their needs and enabled her to be at home when her children returned home from school. Her last gainfull employment was with the Rolscreen Company where she was employed for 18 years until her retirement in 1985. Louise always operated under basic principles and was truly a fun loving person. She enjoyed dressing up as a clown for parades, birthday parties and at the hospital. Louise lived the remaining years of her life in Pella. On Friday evening, October 2, 2009, she passed away at the Good Samaritan Center in Ottumwa, Iowa at the age of 88 years, 7 months and 16 days where she had been cared for since July. Louise’s family will be indebted to her for always being there for them. They are her three children, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren: Miles Sabin of Pella and his son, Matthew Sabin; Duane Sabin of Pella and his two daughters: Jacquelyn Kay Sabin and her two children, Ashley and Lindsay Willemsen and Jennifer Lynn Sabin; Vesta (Sabin) and her husband, Mark L.Frahm of Ottumwa, Iowa and their four children: Leah (Frahm) and Steven Knipfer and their two sons, Ashton Mark and Spencer Steven Knipfer, Emily L. Frahm, Andrew M. Frahm and Hope J.(Frahm) and Mark Reinier and their daughter, Madison Elizabeth Reinier. Louise was the last surviving member of her original family and leaves a sister-in-law and closest friend, Doris (Sabin) Rezac of Armstrong, Iowa.She was preceded in death by her husband, Luverne; her parents, George and Edith Gezel; and all her sisters and brothers: Mildred Gezel who died in infancy, Bernice Gezel, Emeline (Edward) Vos, Frieda (Virgil) Ten Hagen, George Gezel and Ivan Gezel. Special memories of the sisters and brothers growing up, was when they rolled up the rugs and had square dances on Saturday nights in their home. Already then Louise enjoyed fun times. Louise was baptized at the First Baptist Church in Pella as a high school student and remained a faithful member there the remainder of her lifetime. She had also been a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and always active with Poppy Day and the Pella Historical Society. WHISTLING and FUN will be two of the words that Louise will be remembered for.
Memorials may be given for the Carnegie-Viersen Public Library in Pella or Hospice of Iowa.
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Roger Olson,
August 19, 1939 - October 02, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Visitation will begin Monday morning , at Peace Lutheran Church, Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Monday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Peace Lutheran Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at 2:00 p. m. , at Peace Lutheran Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella, Iowa
The journey of life for Roger Gene Olson began on August 19, 1939, in Manly, Iowa. Roger was the youngest of four children born to Clarence George and Alice Marie (Grefe) Olson. He attended Township Central Heights for his elementary schooling and graduated from Mason City High School in Mason City, Iowa. Wrestling was a big part of Roger's high school experience. He was a State Wrestling Champion in his weight division in 1957. Being a caddy at the golf course in Mason City was a favorite past time during his youth. He played golf for the high school golf team for three years and he dreamed about being a professional golfer someday. Roger attended Mason City Junior College for one year and then the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Nebraska for one year. While at the University of Nebraska Roger took an Assistant Manager Program through the Bishop’s Buffet restaurant chain. This program enabled him to have a summer job and ultimately proved to him that he would like this kind of work. The program required him to learn all the positions in the food service business. During high school Roger had met Shirley Kaye Shipman. Roger and Shirley began to date while he was working at Bishop's in downtown Des Moines, Iowa and on May 5, 1962 they were united in marriage. In June of that year Roger was drafted into the military service. Roger was stationed at Ft. Hood, Texas when their first daughter, Lori Lynn, was born. Roger was stationed in Germany for a period of time and in June of 1964 was discharged from the military. He returned to Bishop's in Des Moines and was later transferred to a Bishop's in Lincoln, Nebraska as the manager. While living there their second daughter, Stephanie Kristin, was born in 1966. The family next moved back to Des Moines for about three years, this time working at a Bishop’s on Fleur Drive. A highlight of this experience was the privilege he had of serving Arnold Palmer. Roger and Shirley then took a short detour back to Mason City where they explored the idea of owning their own restaurant, soon to realize this was not right for them and moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin and eventually Chicago, Illinois area exploring this same venture. The journey next brought Roger to interview in Pella, Iowa. The historic Strawtown Inn and Restaurant was looking for a manager. Roger managed this thriving business until October 1, 1991. During this experience he had the privilege of meeting dignitaries and serving many other notable people. In 1991, the greens and fairways were calling to Roger and he decided to take the position as manager of the Pella Golf and Country Club. Roger enjoyed working for Bishop’s, Strawtown and the Golf & Country Club, but his overall favorite experience was with Strawtown Inn. Roger and Shirley enjoyed vacationing. Their favorite vacations were to Hawaii, cruises and PARTIES.  On October 2, 2009, his journey on earth was completed and a new and better journey began when he passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House having just celebrated his 70th birthday. Memories will live forever in the minds and hearts of his two daughters and their husbands and five grandchildren. They and their families are: Lori and Dr. Russell Bandstra and their three children: Stephen Andrew, Elizabeth Laine and Christopher Evan Bandstra, 1721 West 4th. Street in Pella; Stephanie and Michael De Jong and their two sons: Nicholas Michael and Matthew Joel De Jong, 312 Central Drive in Pella. Roger leaves his brother, Richard Olson and his wife, Delores, his sister-in-law, LaVonne (Clarence) Olson; his mother-in-law, Gladys A. (Johnson) Shipman, a brother-in-law, Scott Shipman and his fiance, Tracy Boehmer all of Mason City, Iowa; along with two sisters-in-law: Jeanie (Vance) Shipman of Tampa, Florida and Toni (Vance Shipman) Levering of Minneapolis, Minnesota; many nieces and nephews; and a host of many friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, on February 5, 2008; his parents, Clarence and Alice Olson;  his father-in-law, Carroll E. Shipman; his brother, Clarence J. Olson; his sister, Alice Ann and her husband, Harold Ditch; and a brother-in-law, Vance Shipman. Roger was baptized in the Lutheran Church and remained a faithful member of the Peace Lutheran Church in Pella, Iowa. Passing on his Christian faith was important to Roger and he strived to teach his family to continue to grow in their faith. Roger will be remembered as being sensitive to others, quiet, conservative and a hard worker. Through his experiences in life he learned that "you have to work for what you are going to get, you need to be fair and to work hard". Roger believed that if more people would "do unto others as they would like others to do to them,” we'd have a better world.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials for Peace Lutheran Church or the Hospice of Pella Comfort House.
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Garrit Vander Weerdt,
October 23, 1922 - September 27, 2009
Grinnell, Iowa
Visitation: begins after 12:30 p.m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church
Visitation: family present, Tuesday evening from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Wednesday, September 30 at 10:30 a.m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church
Interment: Sully Cemetery
Garrit Vander Weerdt, 86, of Grinnell, Iowa, formerly of Lynnville, Iowa, passed away Sept. 27, 2009, at St. Francis Manor in Grinnell. The son of Gerrit and Josie (Runia) Vander Weerdt Sr., he was born on Oct. 23, 1922, in Jasper County northwest of Lynnville. Garrit graduated from Taylor Country School, northeast of Sully on June 16, 1936. He worked for various farmers as a hired man until he was drafted into the U. S. Army on Jan. 5, 1943. A proud veteran of World War II, he served in signal airwarning (radar) in Atlantic City, NJ; Drewfield, FL; Camp Stoneman, CA; Australia, New Guinea, Philippines, Okinawa, and Japan until honorably discharged on Dec. 15, 1945. On March 14, 1949, he was united in marriage to Isabelle Mathilda Terlouw at the Sully Christian Reformed Church parsonage. They lived northwest of Lynnville where he was born on the farm bought by his father in 1919. They moved into Lynnville in 1982 and lived there until they moved to St. Francis Manor in 2003. He was a farmer, a part-time carpenter, and a retired Lynnville rural mail carrier, serving 1967 to 1990. He remained a faithful longtime member of Sully Christian Reformed Church where he had served as a Deacon. Garrit’s faith was evident and he professed to know Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Survivors are his five children: Twyla Vander Weerdt of Coon Rapids, MN, Leon (Margaret) Vander Weerdt of Sully, Lois (Bruce) Rypkema of Danbury, WI, James (Jane) Vander Weerdt of Sully, and Kelvin (Diane) Vander Weerdt of Sully; 11 grandchildren: Faye (Eric) Brand of Lynnville; Gwyn (Jake) Ferguson of Norwalk; Kyra (Peter) Smith of Killduff; Kristy (Derek) Johnson of Mora, MN; Todd (Lindsay) Rypkema of Rochester, MN; Andrew Rypkema of Tulsa, OK; Kody (Karina) Vander Weerdt of Pella; Tanner, Betsy, Darci, and Grace Vander Weerdt, all of Sully; four great-grandsons, Nathan Johnson, Grant and Trent Johnson of Mora, MN, and Carter Brand of Lynnville; two sisters-in-law, Elizabeth and Cornelia Vander Weerdt of Pella; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Isabelle on June 6, 2005; one sister, Anna Hardeman in 1988; and three brothers, Brandt in 1994, and twins, Henry and John in 2001.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Lynnville Historical Society or Christian Worship Hour of Aberdeen, SD.
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Minnie Bruxvoort,
August 17, 1913 - September 08, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Thursday afternoon , at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present Thursday, 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Friday, September 11 at 10:30 a. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella, Iowa
Wilhelmina Klazina Samson was born on August 17, 1913, at Harvey, Iowa. She was an only daughter born to Arie and Anna Zylstra Samson who had four older sons. Minnie, as she was known, attended a one room country grade school near her home. On September 11, 1930, she was united in marriage with Gerrit Bruxvoort, a son of Dick and Hattie Van Kampen Bruxvoort. They were married at Adel, Iowa and to this union five children were born: Arthur Richard, Wilbur Gerald, Carolyn Joyce, Linda Lou and Marilyn Joy. Minnie and Gerrit farmed in Jasper County near Mitchellville, Iowa and moved into Pella, Iowa in 1960. In 1967 they moved south of Pella where they continued to enjoy God's creation and their retirement together. Minnie and Gerrit were privileged to spend 57 1/2 years of married life together before he passed away on February 15, 1989, at the age of 78 years. Minnie was devoted to her husband and remained devoted to her children, 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren. She enjoyed reading, playing hymns on the organ, crocheting, sewing, making quilts and her flower garden. On Tuesday morning, September 8, 2009, she passed away at the Taylor House in Des Moines, Iowa following a brief stay having just celebrated/observed her 96th birthday. Those who will cherish her memory are the following families: A. Richard and Marilyn (Sjaardema) Bruxvoort of Mitchellville, Iowa; Wilbur (Bob) and Janice ( Vos ) Bruxvoort of Mitchellville, Iowa; Carolyn Horman-Burke and Denis Burke of Runnells, Iowa; Marilyn and Jack Fitzgerald of Altoona, Iowa. Minnie was the last surviving member of her original family and leaves a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Herman and Cornelia Bruxvoort of Newton, Iowa; along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerrit; a daughter, Linda Lou, who died at birth on August 6, 1946; her parents, Arie and Anna Samson; her parents-in-law, Dick and Hattie Bruxvoort; and her four brothers and their wives: Andrew and Margret Samson, Paul and Vera Samson, Gerrit and Ethel Samson, Charlie and Marcella Samson. Minnie was a member of the Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa.
For those desiring, Mrs. Bruxvoort requested memorials be given for the Pella Christian Schools in Pella, Iowa
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Marvin Van Maanen,
June 07, 1940 - September 08, 2009
Grinnell, Iowa
Visitation: begins Friday at 11:30 a.m. , at First Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Visitation: family present Friday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Funeral Service: Saturday, September 12 at 10:00 a. m. , at First Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Interment: Sully Cemetery at Sully, Iowa
Marvin Duane Van Maanen was born near Taintor, Iowa on June 7, 1940. He was the 5th of 12 children that were born to Teunis and Rika Fortuin Van Maanen. Marvin received his formal education at Case Country School, and served a military enlistment period with the Iowa Army National Guard. On February 22, 1963, he was united in marriage with Dorothy Faye Struik, a daughter of Kryn and Alberta Jansen Struik. Marvin and Dorothy were given the privilege of raising four children: Marc Duane, Timothy Ryan, Angela Kae and Dana Michelle. They lived southwest of Sully, Iowa the first three years of their marriage until moving to their present location north of Lynnville, Iowa. Marvin's first joy and fulfillment was farming and taking care of his sheep. He loved it when his 2 dogs (Dusty and Quinn) would greet him in the morning while feeding his sheep. As his children grew up and he acquired grandchildren, his pride and joy was seeing them mature. He always looked forward to the Sunday family dinners, once a month. Retirement was not an active word in Marvin's vocabulary yet, however, he and Dorothy did enjoy some traveling together. On June 9, 2009, Marvin was diagnosed with cancer and the disease proved to be very invasive. He passed away Tuesday morning, September 8, 2009, at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa having just celebrated his 69th birthday. Those who will cherish his memory are his wife, Dorothy, their four children and their spouses and 7 grandchildren. They are: Marc and Shelly Van Maanen of Grinnell, Iowa Joshua David Van Maanen Tim Van Maanen of Williamsburg, Iowa Morgan Leigh Van Maanen Angela and Brad Braafhart of Grinnell, Iowa Aaron Gene Van Dyke Gina Ashley Van Dyke Ashten Genn Van Dyke Dana and Rod Rozendaal of Sully, Iowa Makenzy Alexis Rozendaal Makayla Ann Rozendaal Marvin was the first of his siblings to pass away. He is survived by Walton and Violet Van Maanen, LeRoy and Ruth Van Maanen, Gilbert and Ada Van Maanen all of Lynnville, Iowa, Arlene and Arnout Dunnick of Barnes City, Iowa, Norman and Marilyn Van Maanen of Killduff, Iowa, Dennis and Linda Van Maanen of Kellogg, Iowa, Shirley and Melvin Uitermarkt of Leighton, Iowa, Karen and Frank Van Soelen of Sully, Iowa, Rodney and Bev Van Maanen, Dale and Ruth Van Maanen of Lynnville. Marvin also leaves the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Norma (Struik) and Gene Roose of West Des Moines, Iowa, Keith and Darlene Struik of Sully, Verlan and Elaine Struik of Leighton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Teunis and Rika Van Maanen; his parents-in-law, Kryn and Alberta Struik; a brother, Irvin Van Maanen, who died in infancy; a niece, Sally Jo Van Maanen, and a nephew, Brian Van Maanen. Marvin was a member of the First Reformed Church in Sully, Iowa.
The family prefers memorials for The Gideon’s International
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Keith De Heus,
October 07, 1946 - August 30, 2009
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Visitation: Thursday, September 3, 4 to 8 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Friday, September 4 at 10:30 a.m., , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery, Pella with military honors.
Keith L. De Heus, 62, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, died Sunday, August 30, 2009, at his home surrounded by his family after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Survivors include his wife, Joan; his sons, Christopher (Lacey) De Heus and their children Tyler and Blake of Pella and Dustin (Jody) De Heus and their son Jaden; step-children, Jacob, Ellie and Hannah Kaiser all of Cedar Rapids; and sister, Glenda (Mike) Duffus of Newton. Keith was preceded in death by his parents. Keith was born October 7, 1946, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, the son of Dick and Anita (Vander Linden) De Heus. He graduated from Central College in Pella in 1968. Keith served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After the war, he married Diane Olson. He was owner of RDR Contracting and C-RDR Homes. He married Joan Heiden on May 30, 2009. Keith enjoyed over 30 years of hunting in Wyoming every fall and many summer weekends with his family, friends and grandchildren at the Lake of the Ozarks. A special thank you to Dr. Fusselman and staff and the Mercy Hospice staff for all their support and help.
Memorials may be made in Keith’s memory to the Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, 315 18th Avenue, Hiawatha, Iowa 52233 or the American Cancer Society, 4080 1st Avenue N.E., Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
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LOUIS DIELEMAN ,
August 04, 1924 - August 29, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Tuesday afternoon , at Covenant Reformed Church , Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Tuesday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. , at Covenant Reformed Church , Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Wednesday, September 2, 2009 at 10:30 a. m. , at Covenant Reformed Church , Pella, Iowa
Interment: Sully Cemetery at Sully, Iowa
Louis Dieleman was born on August 4, 1924, in Sully, Iowa, the youngest of ten children born to Daniel and Alida (Terpstra) Dieleman. When he was 3 years of age his father passed away unexpectedly; and he continued to live with his mother, brothers and sisters on an acreage near Sully. Louie, as he was known, received his formal education at the Sully Christian Grade School and made profession of his faith at an early age at the Sully Christian Reformed Church. When he was 14 years of age his mother died suddenly from a stroke. Louie worked as a farm hand on the Ben Terlouw farm north of Killduff, Iowa. On February 22, 1946, he was united in marriage with Bernice Lucille Jansen, a daughter of Gerrit and Lizzie (Fopma) Jansen. They moved to a farm southwest of Sully and to this union two sons were born: Norman Lee and Edwin Louis. Nine years later they purchased the farm and moved to the Hunziker farm nearby continuing to farm both farms. Louie and Bernice built a new home on their original farm and following their retirement moved to Pella, Iowa in 1998. Louie did a lot of custom baling, with a Vermeer baler, which he thoroughly enjoyed. He served on the Sully Christian School Board and had a passion for Christian education, spending many, many hours volunteering for the schools. His 6 grandsons were a very important part of his life. Not only did he enjoy their many visits, he encouraged them in their spiritual lives and enjoyed attending their ball games, music programs, and other activities. Louie was a longtime, faithful member of the Sully Christian Reformed Church where he had served as a Deacon. At the present time he was a member of the Covenant Reformed Church in Pella. On Saturday evening, August 29, 2009, he passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella having just celebrated his 85th birthday. Louie is survived by his wife of 63 years, Bernice; their 2 sons and their wives and 6 grandchildren: Norman L. and Janice (Steenhoek) Dieleman of Pella, Iowa; Edwin L. and Joyce (Veurink) Dieleman of Sully, Iowa. Louie was the last surviving member of his original family. He leaves his sister-in-law, Ernestine (Harry) Dieleman of Sully; along with the following sisters-in-law and brother-in-law: Cornelia (Jansen) Boat, Jerri (Cornie) Jansen, Shirley (Jansen) and Bruce Baarda all of Sully. Louie was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Alida Dieleman; and his 9 sisters and brothers and their spouses: Jennie and Cornelius Van Kooten, Nellie and Roy Van Kooten, Christine and Louis Van Wyk, William and Joyce Dieleman, Harriet and Everett Vande Voort, Harry Dieleman, Sadie and James Nikkel, Daniel and Lorraine Dieleman, Wallace and Jessie Dieleman; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Mary (Jansen) and Joe Nikkel, and brothers-in-law, Harris Boat and Cornie Jansen.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials for the Sully Christian Grade School in Sully, Iowa or “The Back to God Hour” radio ministry broadcast.
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Evelyn Sparks Cremeen,
January 22, 1930 - August 26, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Visitation begins Friday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present Friday 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Saturday, August 29 at 2:00 p. m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Silent City Cemetery at Monroe, Iowa
Evelyn Arlene Kool was born on January 22, 1930, near Fifield in Marion County, Iowa. She was the daughter of Joe and Grietje Diekema Kool. Evelyn attended Pella Public High School in Pella, Iowa. On February 2, 1947, she was united in marriage with Billy Eugene Sparks at Kansas City, Kansas and to this union five children were born: Raymond Eugene, Diana Lynn, Shelia Kay, Donna Jo and Jerry Lee. Following their marriage Evelyn and Billy lived in Oskaloosa and Pella, Iowa until moving to Monroe, Iowa in 1967. During this time they were employed at the Rolscreen Company in Pella and at the Maytag Company in Newton, Iowa. Billy passed away on September 10, 1982, at the age of 55 years. Evelyn continued working at Maytag Company until becoming a United Auto Workers retiree in 1990. In June of 1984 she and Raymond Earl Simbro began traveling their lives together. They would spend the winters in Texas while making their residence below the Red Rock Dam near Pella. Evelyn and Ray found much enjoyment traveling in his motorhome. But then Ray passed away on March 25, 1996, at the age of 71 years. Evelyn continued managing the recreational park in Texas where she met Bill Cremeen. They were united in marriage on September 8, 2002, and they enjoyed wildlife, fishing and traveling. Bill then became Evelyn's caregiver and remained very devoted and dedicated. In May of 2009, Evelyn became hospitalized and passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 79 years, 7 months and 4 days. Those who will cherish her memory are her husband, Bill; her five children and their spouses: Ray and Eva Sparks of Monroe, Iowa, Diana and Bernie Brown, Shelia and Terry Benz, Donna and Marvin Kendall all of Pella, Iowa, Jerry and Trudy Sparks of Alvin, Texas. Evelyn leaves 16 grandchildren, numerous loving great-grandchildren and a half-sister. Her family will remember her talking with them faithfully on the telephone and the many, many crocheting items she had made for them. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husbands, Billy Sparks and Ray Simbro; her parents, Joe and Grace (Rozenberg) Kool; her step-father, Henry Rozenberg; and a grandson, James Alexander Sparks, and a brother, Everett Kool, who died in infancy.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials for the Evelyn A. Cremeen Memorial Fund.
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Artie Rietveld,
November 18, 1915 - August 15, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Visitation will be from noon until service time on Wednesday , at Second Christian Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Wednesday, August 19 at 2:00 p.m. , at Second Christian Reformed Church
Interment: Graceland Cemetery at Pella
Artie Booy was born on November 18, 1915, west of Pella, Iowa on the Roberts Creek Road. She was the 4th of 8 children that were born to Nicholas and Henrietta Wilhelmina Kelderman Booy. She attended the Pella Christian Grade School in Pella and made public profession of her faith at the Second Christian Reformed Church on May 26, 1935, at the age of 18 years. Artie made her home with her parents for many years while working at the Rolscreen Company in Pella. Artie attended Monroe Old Settlers at Monroe, Iowa with her good friends, Gertrude and Willard Rietveld, where she met Cornie David Rietveld. Artie and Cornie shared special interests fishing and hunting and on July 24, 1956, they were united in marriage at the Second Christian Reformed Church. Artie continued working at Pella Corporation for 32 years until she retired in 1977. Cornie passed away of cancer on December 1, 1985. Artie eventually sold her home in Pella and became a resident at Fair Haven East on April 1, 1991. In August of 2001 she became a resident at the Griffin Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Knoxville, Iowa. On Saturday morning, August 15, 2009, she passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of 93 years. Artie is survived by her brother, Leonard Booy and his wife, Lena, of Litchfield, Michigan; her sister, Pearl and her husband, Joe Stravers, of Holland, Michigan; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cornie Rietveld; her parents, Nicholas and Henrietta Booy; two brothers, James, who died in infancy and her oldest brother, William Booy; and three sisters: Lena Booy, Alice Huisman and Nellie (Spencer) Ver Meer. Artie was a lifelong, faithful member of the Second Christian Reformed Church in Pella and church life was very important to her. Artie taught Sunday School, served as president of the young girls Loyal Workers Society, sang in the choir and attended The Golden Hour Society for many years. She attended Women’s Christian Edification meetings and Bible League meetings. Sundays were like a foretaste of heaven. She was always appreciative for having had Christian parents and fulfilled a mission in life when her husband, Cornie, became a Christian. For several years she volunteered for the Pella Community Hospital Auxiliary and the Fair Haven Auxiliary. Artie found great joy in being helpful to others.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Hospice of Pella Comfort House
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Bob Dunsbergen,
December 11, 1927 - August 14, 2009
Sully, Iowa
Visitation: begins Monday morning , at First Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Monday 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Funeral Service: Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. August 18, 2009 at First Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Interment: Sully Cemetery
Robert (Bob) Gerard Dunsbergen was born on Decemebr 11, 1927, in Jasper County, south of Kellogg, Iowa. He was the 5th of five children that were born to Barney and Alida (Carbo) Dunsbergen. He was baptized at the Killduff Reformed Church on July 7, 1929. Bob attended the Spring Hill Country Grade School and completed his formal education after the eighth grade in May of 1942. Bob began farming with his father on the family farm south of Kellogg. On February 11, 1947, he was united in marriage with Anna Mae Van Wyk at her parent’s home near Lynnville, Iowa. To this union five children were born: Marvin Laverne, Beryl Warren, Susan Louise, Dennis Brian, and Bruce Allen. Their first home was living with Bob’s Dad, Barney, then they moved to the Young farm south of Kellogg. In 1960 they purchased the Vander Kamp farm south of Sully, Iowa living there until 1982. Bob loved farming and especially raising cows and calves. In February of 1964, Anna Mae was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome leaving her wheelchair bound for 41 years. In 1982, they built a handicapped accessible home at 701 9th Ave. in Sully, never realizing he might need it as well. Bob’s steadfast support and patient care enabled them to experience together all the world had to offer them. Life for Bob after Anna Mae’s death on July 22, 2005 was not the same. After several circumstances regarding his own health, Bob became wheelchair bound himself. Bob was never a person to sit around. He is remembered for his bidding ability at card games and his laughter was contagious. Bob enjoyed visiting with neighbors and their kids and was doing just that when he died suddenly near his home on August 14, 2009, he attained the age of 81 years, 8 months and 3 days. Those left to cherish his memory are his five children and their families: Marvin and Gwen Dunsbergen of Kellogg; Beryl and Velda Dunsbergen of Sully; Susan Beyer of Sully; Dennis and Lisa Dunsbergen of Sully; Bruce and Lynnette Dunsbergen of Sully. Of his original family Bob leaves his beloved sister, Wilma (Bernard) De Zwarte of Newton, Iowa. Of his wife Anna Mae’s family he leaves her siblings and their spouses: (Guysbert) Esther Van Wyk of Lynnville, Gertrude and Ray Van Wyk of Pella, Iowa, Ralph J. (Jane Ann) and Ruby Van Wyk of Sully, Wilmer and Dorothy Van Wyk of Monroe, Iowa, (Forrest) LaVonne Van Wyk of Pella and Vernon and Carolyn Van Wyk of Sully. Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Anna Mae; his parents, Barney and Alida Dunsbergen; an infant, brother, Bennie; a sister, Nellie and her husband Everett Jansen; his brother, Bennie and his wife, Margaret Dunsbergen; and his brother-in-law, Bernard De Zwarte; his parents-in-law, Will G. and Johanna (De Jong) Van Wyk; brothers- in-law: Guysbert and Forrest Van Wyk, and sister-in-law, Jane Ann Van Wyk. Bob was a lifetime member of First Reformed Church in Sully where he made profession of his faith at an early age. He had been a Deacon, Sunday School teacher, Superintendent of the Sunday School and member of the Men’s Brotherhood He was a member of Gideon’s International, serving as a past treasurer. He was active in the community, a member of the Sully Cemetery Board, Sully Lion’s Club serving as past president and 9X8 Zone Chairman; was honored to serve as Mayor for 2 terms in the 1980’s when cable TV hit the market; and Co-Chair of the Central Iowa Blood Drive for over 25 years. Bob loved attending tractor rides and threshing reunions. Bob is especially remembered attending any event that was held at school that his children and grandchildren were involved in. Bob will be fondly remembered as a prayer partner and his family will ever be indebted for his commitment to marriage. His greatest desire was to see all his children and grandchildren in heaven with him someday.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to the Gideon’s International.
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Faye Stouwie,
September 23, 1928 - July 31, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Monday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Monday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, August 4 at 1:30 p.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Faye Ola Van Wyk was the youngest of fourteen children that were born to Gysbert and Gertrude Van Arkel Van Wyk. She was born on September 23, 1928, at Sully, Iowa. Faye graduated from the Dairy Grove Country Grade School. On June 6, 1947, she was united in marriage with Gerrit Nelson Stouwie at the First Christian Reformed Church in Sully and to this union two sons were born: David Allen and Bradley J. Faye and Gerrit lived in Oskaloosa, Iowa for a short while before moving to Pella, Iowa. They lived in Pella the remainder of their married lifetime. Faye was employed at the Christian Opportunity Center and the Pella Community Hospital. She also occupied her time crocheting afghans, sewing and conducting ceramics classes. The family has many remembrances of her talents. On Friday evening, July 31, 2009, Faye passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House at the age of 80 years, 10 months and 8 days. Faye is survived by her husband, Gerrit Stouwie; a son David Stouwie and his wife, Diane, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and their son, Michael; a son, Bradley Stouwie and his wife, Karen, and their two daughters, Valerie and her daughter, Kaylee, and Lynn of Box Elder, South Dakota. Of her original family Faye leaves her brother, David Van Wyk and his wife, Edith of Grinnell, Iowa; two sisters-in-law, Nellie (Bert) Van Wyk of Pella and Tunetta (Marion) Van Wyk of Otley, Iowa; and a brother-in-law, Henry Terlouw of Lynnville, Iowa. Her husband’s family includes the following siblings: Helen (Stouwie) and Elmer Klein of Pella, Bernice (Stouwie) and Bob Hoyt of Pleasantville, Iowa, Bob Leftwich of Clay Center, Kansas, Elner (Stouwie) and Cornie Spoelstra of Oskaloosa, Iowa, Betty (Stouwie) and Marvin Bruxvoort of Pella, Wilma (Stouwie) and Carl Vander Wal of Nevada, Iowa, Cecil and Carolyn Stouwie of Port Richey, Florida, Leona (Stouwie) and Wayne Veldhuizen of Oskaloosa. Faye was preceded in death by her parents, Gysbert and Gertrude Van Wyk; her parents-in-law, Cecil and Bertha Ryken Stouwie; five brothers and their wives: Bill and Johanna Van Wyk, Case and Artie Van Wyk, Henry and Clara Van Wyk, Bert and Pauline Van Wyk and Marion Van Wyk and her seven sisters and their husbands: Carrie and John Braaksma, Mattie and Gerrit De Hoedt, Minnie and Ben Ver Steeg, Jeanette and Max Antle, Gertie and Jim Ver Steeg, Alenis and Rex Brush, and Mary Grace (Henry) Terlouw. She was also preceded in death by the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Raymond Stouwie, Jane (Stouwie) and Raymond De Geest and Marjorie (Stouwie) Leftwich. Faye was baptized at the Sully Christian Reformed Church in Sully, Iowa and since 1950 had been a faithful member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Hospice of Pella Comfort House
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Ella Rook,
November 22, 1909 - July 28, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Sunday 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday, August 3 at 10:30 a.m. , at Heartland Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Ella Anna Louise Stehr was born in Hamburg, Germany, on November 22, 1909. She was baptized in the family Lutheran Church in Schwerin, Germany. During this time many were immigrating to the United States for better opportunities and when Ella was 11 months old her parents, Henry and Minna (Luckow) Stehr, and her brother, Kurt, came to America. They arrived in Norfolk, Nebraska, later moved to Chicago, Illinois and finally settled on a farm near Grand Rapids, Michigan. On April 27, 1929, she was united in marriage with Cornelius Rook, who was employed at a furniture factory in Grand Rapids and Ella was employed as floor manager at a department store in the same city. By the end of that summer they moved to Iowa on a farm that he owned near Indianola where they lived until 1934. It was here that their two sons were born: Herman Cornelius and Lawrence Harold. They eventually moved to a farm north of Pella, Iowa where their daughter, Shirley Ann was born. They resided there until they retired and moved to Pella in 1956. Ella and Case (as he was known), lived at 1327 Main Street. He passed away on December 31, 1981. Ella continued living in the same house for the next 21 years until moving to Vriendschaap Village Assisted Living in Pella where she had many friends. In March of 2009, to be near her daughter, she became a wonderful addition to the Hiawatha Care Center in Hiawatha, Iowa. On Tuesday morning, July 28, 2009, she passed away at St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, four months prior to her 100th birthday. Surviving are two children and their spouses, 7 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren: Herman and Marcella (Goemaat) Rook of Pella and their four children: Carol and Verlan Van Dyke and their three children: Michael, Kevin and (Ashley), Bradley; Laureen and Marlin Van Wyk and their three children: Lance and (Amanda), Cody, and Katelyn; Keith and Lynn Rook and their two children: Jared and, Jordan; Larry Rook and his son, Nacy; Shirley and Harlan Nieuwsma of Marion, Iowa and their three children: Steven and (Peggy Prince) and his three children: Benjamin and his son, Keegan, Alison, and Katie and her son, Mason; Julie Ann (Nieuwsma) and Brian Waggoner and their five children: Samuel, Joseph, Joshua, John and, Ella Christine; David and Elizabeth Nieuwsma and their three children: Jacob, Jennifer and Stephanie. Of her original family Ella leaves one sister, Lucille Finkbeiner of Middleville, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cornelius Rook; her son, Lawrence, who died on March 15, 1964; her parents, Henry and Minna Stehr; her brother, Kurt; a sister, Elizabeth, a brother Walter and her brother Harry. One of Ella's last adventures was deciding to apply for United States citizenship. She began studying in her 30's but never took the test. On July 24, 1998 she became a citizen, one of the oldest that day, and felt so very proud and happy. Ella was the oldest member of the Heartland Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa. A special thanks to staff at Vriendschaap Village for their wonderful care and friendship and to Reverend Ross Davidson for his many heartwarming visits. Thanks also to the staff at Hiawatha Care Center, Dr. Mary Ann Nelson, and St. Luke’s Hospital for their wonderful care and friendship.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Heartland Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa.
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Wilma Fortney,
January 20, 1920 - July 26, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Tuesday evening , 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. where the family will be present , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Wednesday, July 29 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Friends Cemetery at New Sharon, Iowa
Wilma Verle Ver Steegh was born on January 20, 1920, at New Sharon, Iowa. She was the first of two daughters that were born to Henry John and Leota May Briggs Ver Steegh. Wilma received her formal education in New Sharon where she graduated from New Sharon High School. She attended Murphy Business School and then worked in an office in Oskaloosa, tracing farm plots of Mahaska County. On April 3, 1943, she was united in marriage with Forrest Harrison Fortney who had just enlisted in the United States Army. They were married in Lancaster, Missouri, and Wilma returned to Oskaloosa while he served on active duty during World War II. Following his discharge, Wilma and "Frosty", as he was known, lived in Oskaloosa until 1958 where she was a devoted mother to their three daughters: Carol Ann, Claudia Lea, and Peggy Lynne. In 1958 they moved to Montgomery, Minnesota, where she was employed as a legal secretary and was an active golfer and bowler. Forrest passed away there on September 17, 1980. Following his death, Wilma continued living there until 1986 when she relocated to Marshalltown, Iowa, to be near a friend (Harry Cripps). Then in 2001 Wilma desired to be near her family and relocated to Pella, Iowa. She enjoyed the remaining years of her life in Pella where she enjoyed family, playing cards, travel, listening to gospel music, watching TV and doing word finds. Late Sunday evening, July 26, 2009, she passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House at the age of 89 years, 6 months and 6 days. Wilma is survived by two daughters: Claudia Fortney and her friend, Mike Hickman of Mankato, Minnesota and her daughter, Michelle Fortney, of Eagle Lake, Minnesota; Peggy Fortney and her friend, Brian Kammerer of Maplewood, Minnesota, and her step-daughter, Nevis Marsh of Chicago, Illinois; another granddaughter, Kimberly Thomas of St. Charles, Illinois; a son-in-law, Rawley Thomas, of St. Charles, Illinois and his two children: John and Rhonda Thomas, Alexis and Mike Rowcliff and their two children: Cassandra and Cody Rowcliff; and her sister, Helen Helm Roberts and her husband, Riley Roberts, of Pella, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her husband, Forrest Fortney; her daughter, Carol Ann Thomas, who passed away November 21, 2008; and her parents, Henry and Leota Ver Steegh. Wilma's faith was nurtured at the Friends Church in New Sharon, Iowa and prior to the time of her death she regularly attended the First Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa. As a young girl, Wilma enjoyed roller skating and playing the piano and organ and in later years traveling. She was not a joiner but has now joined all those who have joined together in the presence of their Heavenly Father.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Hospice of Pella or the Carol Ann Thomas Scholarship Fund.
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Minnie De Jong,
October 16, 1921 - July 22, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begin Friday afternoon , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Visitation: family present, Friday 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Saturday, July 25 at 1:30 p.m. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Interment: Peoria Cemetery at Peoria, Iowa
Minnie Nikkel was born on October 16, 1921, near Sully, Iowa. She was the youngest of five children that were born to Albert and Katherine Stek Nikkel. Minnie enjoyed being a farm girl and attended the Sully Christian Grade School through the 3rd grade and later the Frog Pond Country Grade School near Lynnville, Iowa. Minnie grew up in the setting of the Great Depression and remembered her father's loving and gentle spirit and her mother telling many stories. In school she especially enjoyed writing essays and subjects that involved literature and English. However her formal education came to an end after only one semester in high school as her family needed her to seek gainful employment in order to contribute to the welfare of the family. Minnie and her family then moved into Pella, Iowa, near the Rolscreen Company. Her family and she found employment there and they joined the Second Christian Reformed Church. Minnie caught the eye of a young rascal named, Martin Arie De Jong, whose family also attended the same church. He was the son of Martin and Lena Vander Schaaf De Jong, and was raised in the home of his Grandfather Sjoerd (George) Vander Schaaf, as his father died of influenza shortly before Martin's birth. Martin was called to serve his country during World War II and before he went off into service he and Minnie decided to marry on May 7, 1943, at the home of her parents in Pella. Married life brought them to Fort Riley, Kansas and eventually Private De Jong was shipped off to Europe. Minnie returned to Pella, Iowa during this time with their first child, Judith Ann, and made their home with Martin's mother, Lena De Jong and her family. Part of that time was also spent living in the home of her parents. Following Martin's discharge he returned to Pella and Minnie and "Bats", as he became known, started a construction business of their own. Minnie's primary focus continued to be their growing family: Lois Jean, Linda Kay, Carol Sue, Jaci Lynn and Robert Martin. Minnie was a faithful wife to her husband, Bats, who would build a home for their family, sell it and then move on to a new location for some 15 times, and a devoted mother to keeping their 6 children fed, clothed, doctored, educated and faithfully nurtured. This was enough to fill her time and then some. After retirement Minnie and Bats made several winter trips to the Port Charlotte area in Florida. Even in Florida, Bats kept looking for a better housing deal, and they moved several times. They enjoyed the warm weather, new friends and flea markets. Minnie enjoyed going to a craft center, handwork such as embroidery, crocheting, quilting and knitting. She shared many of her beautiful projects with her children and grandchildren. As Bats' health began to deteriorate they moved into the Grandview Apartments and Hilltop Manor North in Pella and Bats eventually became a resident in the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center. He passed away there on March 30, 2003 at the age of 82 years. Minnie continued to enjoy the fellowship and activities at Hilltop. She also enjoyed outings with her daughters, Lois and Carol and visits with her children, Judy, Linda, Jaci and Bob who lived away from Pella. On Wednesday morning, July 22, 2009, she passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House at the age of 87 years, 9 months and 6 days. Minnie leaves, in a legacy of love and faithfulness, five children and their spouses, 13 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. They and their families are: Judy and Stan Ver Heul of Traverse City, Michigan; Lois and Bob Vermeer of Pella, Iowa; Carol and Pete Verhey of Pella, Iowa; Jaci and Mark Hugen of Norwalk, California; Bob and Diane De Jong of Swanzey, New Hampshire. Minnie was preceded in death by her husband, Martin A. De Jong; her daughter, Linda Pelton, who passed in 1997 and her husband, Fred Pelton, in 2005; her parents, Albert and Katherine Nikkel; her mother-in-law, Lena De Jong; her two sisters, Cora and her husband, Neal Van Veen and Henrietta Nikkel; a brother, James Nikkel, who died as an infant and her brother, John Nikkel; and a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Janet (De Jong) and James A. Shade. Minnie was a member of the Second Christian Reformed Church in Pella until they decided to be a part of a new church, the Calvary Christian Reformed Church. In the later years of her marriage she and Bats returned their membership to their original church, the Second Christian Reformed Church and at the time of her death she was a member of the Calvary Christian Reformed Church. Her family was truly blessed that Minnie served as a prayer warrior for them all. She also left us to treasure many of her personal writings and memories that indicate her deep love of her Lord, her family and others.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Bethany Christian Services or Hospice of Pella, Iowa.
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Sara Caldwell,
September 19, 1920 - July 21, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Memorial Service: Saturday, July 25 at 10:30 a.m. , at Second Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Visitation: visitation Friday, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Interment: Inurnment will precede the memorial service at the Oakwood Cemetery
Sara Kathleen Schakel was born on September 10, 1920, at Pella, Iowa, the daughter of Ross and Katheryn Paardekooper Schakel. She was educated in the Pella Public Schools and graduated from Pella High School with the Class of 1938. Sara enrolled at Central College and because of financial issues could not live on campus. She graduated with an English Major from Central College in 1942, an institution that remained very dear to her heart and she was a lifelong, dedicated representative for Central. On June 20, 1942, she was united in marriage with Clarence Burton Caldwell at San Antonio, Texas. Her husband, known as Babe, who had interrupted his studies at the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana during World War II, was serving with the Army Air Corps at Kelly Field in San Antonio at the time. Babe served as a command pilot of a B-24 bomber squadron in the 15th Air Force and completed 50 missions in the North African and European campaigns. In1950 Sara and Babe returned to her home state of Iowa and to this union five children were born: the first being a daughter, Toni Gayle and the next four were sons: Timothy Wayne, Joel Burton, Scott Donaldson and Kirk Martin. Babe enrolled at Drake University Pharmacy College in Des Moines, Iowa and following his graduation in 1950 the family lived in Pella. He became a partner with Martin Paardekooper in the Ideal Pharmacy Store and Sara was employed as a Social Worker in Ottumwa, Iowa. Sara was devoted to raising her family of four sons and in 1964 began teaching school. She taught 8th grade History and Social Studies for nearly 20 years. She then became a substitute teacher and was a literacy army volunteer until the year 2006. Sara loved educating children. Sara served with the Iowa Pharmaceutical Auxiliary, was on the nominating board for the Iowa Judicial Court, served on the Pella Day Care Board, the Scholte House Board, and Carnegie-Viersen Public Library Board, was a member of TTT, AAUW and the Pella Historical Society, and was a declared Democrat. She was a faithful member of the Second Reformed Church in Pella where she served as an Elder. On Tuesday morning, July 21, 2009, she passed away at Mercy Hospital Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 88 years. Sara is survived by her four sons and their families: Tim W. Caldwell of Quincy, Illinois and his daughter, Bridget; Joel B. Caldwell and his wife, Jan of Urbandale, Iowa and his daughter, Megan and her husband, Ryan Hunt and a step-son, Christopher Lehnertz; Scott D. Caldwell and his wife, Jeri of Urbandale, Iowa and his son, Matthew, step-sons: Jeff Ostrander and his wife, Peggy, Joel Ostrander and his wife, Shelby and step-daughter, Julie Ostrander; Kirk M. Caldwell and his partner, Alan Pearman and his children, Michol Mackenzie and Gregory Pearman of Sacramento, California; and a sister-in-law, Lorna (Max) Schakel of Pella, Iowa. Sara was preceded in death by her husband, C. B. Caldwell, on December 25, 1984 at the age of 65 years; her daughter, Toni, who died in 1945 at the age of 2 years; a granddaughter, Elizabeth Ann Caldwell, who died in infancy in 1976; her parents, Ross and Katheryn Schakel; her two brothers: Max Schakel and Wayne Schakel and his wife, Pat; and her parents-in-law, Albert and Eunice Donaldson Caldwell.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given for Central College in Pella, Iowa.
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John Madden,
, 1933 - July 16, 2009
Pella, IA
Visitation: begins Sunday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present Sunday, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday, July 20 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: t’Lam Cemetery near Pella with military honors
John William Madden was the first of six children that were born to Bert William and Genevra Eleanore Parson Madden. He was born on March 28, 1933, on a farm north of Red Oak, Iowa. As a young boy he lived in the vicinity where his father worked as a farm hand. John attended grade school at a country school near New Market, Iowa. During this time his father got his arm caught in a corn picker. John, being the oldest of the children, assumed the farm chores and learned a lifetime lesson in the value of being a hard worker. John enjoyed school, made lots of friends, and was a good athlete. He played baseball, football, and basketball. He graduated from New Market High School with the Class of 1951. John had to grow up fast as the nation had entered the Korean War. In July of 1951 he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served on active duty aboard the aircraft carrier the USS Essex until his honorable discharge in July of 1955. During this time, John maintained a courtship with Marlene Hutchinson, whom he had met in high school. Their courtship lasted for 4 years and on June 16, 1957, they were united in marriage at the Methodist Church in New Market. John and Marlene began their lifetime together in Fremont, Nebraska and to this union five children were born: Linda Kay, Nancy Ann, John William, Connie Margene and Debra Sue. John's first full-time job was as a display superintendent for Gambles. He was responsible for setting up new stores and remodeling old stores. He later worked as a store manager for Goodyear in Charles City, Iowa. The best career decision he ever made was relocating to Pella, Iowa. John worked as a mechanic for Ulrich Motor and sold auto parts at Steenhoek Auto for 17 years until his retirement in 1995. Being honest and helping people was a 'trade mark' of John's career. John and Marlene enjoyed their retirement. They spent the past 14 years wintering in Donna, Texas at Bit-O-Heaven Retirement Park. John enjoyed gardening, camping, spending time with family and friends, and driving the First Baptist Church van for senior citizens. He loved to go to Mexico and would make numerous trips during the winter months. John served as a dedicated school board member on the Pella Community School Board for 9 years. He was a member of the Van Veen-Van Hemert American Legion Post No.89 of Pella and a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Pella, Iowa. On July 16, 2009, he passed away at the Comfort House in Pella at the age of 76. Those who will cherish his memory are his wife of 52 years, Marlene; their five children and their spouses and 10 grandchildren. Their families are: Linda Rix of Overland Park, Kansas; Nancy and Lee Inman of Humboldt, Iowa; John and Bonnie Madden, Jr. of Manassas, Virginia; Connie and Bob Grunder of Ankeny, Iowa;Debra and David Newendorp of Urbandale, Iowa. John leaves his siblings and their spouses: Larry and Judy Madden of Atlantic, Iowa, Mary Jane and Karen Lewis of Red Oak, Iowa, Bert and Bev Madden of Carroll, Iowa, Tom and Bonnie Madden of Exira, Iowa; along with many nieces and nephews and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Shirley (Hutchison) and Dwight Nook of Lenox, Iowa, Janice (Hutchison) Eugene Shelton of Belton, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Genevra Madden; his parents-in-law, Frank and Marge (Twaddle) Hutchison; a brother, Robert, who died in infancy; and a brother-in-law, Arthur Hutchinson.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Pella
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Marion Vander Heiden,
, 1930 - July 15, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Memorial Service: Monday, July 20 at 2:00 p.m. , at First Baptist Church
Visitation: prior to the memorial service , at First Baptist Church
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella with military honors
Marion “Mike” Vander Heiden, Jr., 78, of Pella, IA, passed away Wednesday evening at Jefferson Place in Pella. Mike is survived by daughters: Marsha Nichols of Murrayville, IL and Carolyn Anderson of Logan, OH; his daughters: Sheree Perkowski of St. Louis, MO and Terri Robertson of Las Vegas, NV; his son Michael Vander Heiden of Las Vegas, NV; and a step-son, Kenneth Nunn.
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Joe J. Kaldenberg,
, 1938 - July 15, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begin Friday afternoon , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a sharing time at 7:00 p.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Saturday, July 18 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Joe Junior Kaldenberg was born on March 21, 1938, near Galesburg, Iowa. He was the second of six children that were born to Joe and Jeannetta Van Ringelestein Kaldenberg. Joe received his grade school education at the Sully Christian Grade School and graduated from Sully High School in Sully, Iowa. Following his graduation Joe was drafted into the U.S. Army Reserves and served until his medical discharge. Joe’s father operated a general store at Reasnor, Iowa at the same time he farmed near Galesburg and Joe, Jr. assisted his father in the operations. He later began working for his Uncle Dewey Kaldenberg as a well driller at Slater, Iowa. On March 2, 1962, he was united in marriage Karen Diane Van Waardhuizen, a daughter of Milton A. and Esther Wichhart Van Waardhuizen. Joe and Karen relocated to Pella, Iowa where they raised their two children: Jodi Diane and Eric Todd. Joe drove truck for Scheibout Tire Company and then returned to farming for a short while. He became an insurance agent for Bankers Life Nebraska. Joe’s association with the now Ameritas Investment Corporation spanned 40 years. He earned the following honors: Masters Club, Sower Club and Sower Round Table Presidents Club and attained the status of: CLU, ChFC and LUTCF during this time. He was also associated with Broker’s Clearing House. Joe never did completely retire but always found time for family and friends. He also found much enjoyment in lawn mowing and raising flowers. On Wednesday evening, July 15, 2009, he passed away at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella at the age of 71 years,3 months and 24 days. Joe is survived by his wife, Karen; a daughter, Jodi Rau and her husband, Brice, of Marshalltown, Iowa; a son, Eric Kaldenberg, of Phoenix, Arizona; and five grandchildren: Brandon, Mara, Lilly, Lyndi and Lexia. Joe leaves three brothers and their wives: Robert A. and Phyllis Kaldenberg of Winterset, Iowa, Gene E. and Helen Kaldenberg, Tommy L. and Patricia Kaldenberg of Reasnor, Iowa; the following sisters-in-law and brother-in-law: Loretta (Van Waardhuizen) and Larry Jabaai of Indianapolis, Indiana, Connie (John) Van Waardhuizen of Pella, Frances (Charles) Van Waardhuizen of Farmington, Missouri; along with the following step-sisters-in-law and step-brothers-in-law: Joyce (Jansen) Kooistra of Sully, Iowa, Roger and Jeanette Jansen, Ed and Carol Jansen of Pella, Duane Jansen of Golden, Colorado, Beverly(Jansen) and Jim Tierney of Carroll, Iowa, Bryce and Chris Jansen of Stigler, Oklahoma; and many nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Jeannetta Kaldenberg; his oldest brother, John W. Kaldenberg, who was killed in an auto accident in 1955; his youngest sister, Veronica, who died in infancy in 1953; his parents-in-law, Milton and Esther Van Waardhuizen; his step-father-in-law, Jake Jansen; two brothers-in-law: John W. Van Waardhuizen and Charles W. Van Waardhuizen; a step-brother-in-law, Larry Kooistra, and a step-sister-in-law, Karen (Duane) Jansen; two nieces: Michele Van Waardhuizen and Leslie Jabaai; and a nephew, Aaron Van Waardhuizen. Joe was a faithful member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa.
Memorials may be given for Pella Christian High School
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Jerry Weyers,
January 25, 1943 - July 03, 2009
Visitation: Monday evening, 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. July 06, 2009 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday morning, 10:30 a.m. July 07, 2009 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Inurnment will follow services at St Mary's Catholic Cemetery
Jerry Weyers was born on January 25, 1943, in Oskaloosa, Iowa. He was the youngest of three children that were born to Bert and Eva Johanna Rouwenhorst Weyers. Jerry graduated from Webster School and attended Pella Public High School in Pella, Iowa. On June 7, 1963, he was united in marriage with Dorothy June McMurray at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Knoxville, Iowa. At an early age Jerry began driving truck and then began working at the Rolscreen Company in Pella in 1961. Jerry was employed at the Pella Corporation for 37 years until he took disability in 1998. Jerry and Dorothy enjoyed riding motorcycles and camping and for several years Jerry was a trapshooter. In June, 2008, Jerry became a resident at the Griffin Nursing Center in Knoxville, Iowa. On June 30, 2009, he became very ill and was admitted to the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella where he was cared for until being transferred to the Hospice of Pella Comfort House where he passed away on Friday morning, July 3, 2009 at the age of 66 years, 5 months and 7 days. Jerry is survived by his faithful wife of 46 years, Dorothy June; his sister, Junella (Howard) Halverson of Iowa City, Iowa; a step-sister, Juanita (Richard) King of Des Moines, Iowa; and his sister-in-law, Norma (Harry) Weyers of Pella. Jerry and Dorothy had no children of their own and their little companion was their dog, Nellie; but they thought a lot of their niece and nephews: Jeana (Weyers) and Paul Schuring of Pella, Mike and Nancy Halverson of Friendswood, Texas, Craig and Norma Halverson of Newton, Iowa, Brad and Becky Weyers of Sperry, Iowa. Their family also included the following great-nephews and great-nieces: Bret and Todd Schuring, Katie (Halverson) and Sean Adams, Kurtis Halverson, Amanda (Halverson) and Zack Mefford, Chris Halverson, Ben Weyers, Joann (Weyers) and Elias Gutierrez; great-great-nieces: Hannah Halverson, Kilie Adams, and Nevaeh Gutierrez; great-great-nephew, Seth Adams; and God child, Michaela Wilcox of Mufresboro, Tennessee. Jerry was preceded in death by his his parents: his mother, Eva Weyers, who died on July 27, 1957; his father, Bert Weyers and his step-mother, Florence (Enyart) Weyers who were both killed in an auto accident on January 4, 1967; his parents-in-law, George and Alice Stoffeler McMurray; his brother, Harry Weyers; a step-brother, Clyde Enyart; and his brother-in-law, Howard Halverson. Jerry was baptized at the First Christian Church in Knoxville, Iowa on January 16, 1983 and was affiliated with Federated Fellowship Church in Pella, Iowa. He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial may be given to St. Mary's Catholic Church or Federated Fellowship Church in Pella, Iowa.
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Delores Kane Mehls,
July 24, 1942 - June 12, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Monday morning , at Van Dyk - Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk - Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, June16, 10:00 am , at Third Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Portergrove Cemetery, Pella, IA
Delores Ann Ver Meer was born on July 24, 1942, at home in Marion County, Iowa. She was the second of four children that were born to Anthony John and Walterena Vander Beek Ver Meer. Delores attended the Pella Public Schools and when she was 9 years of age her father passed away. She graduated from Pella High School with the Class of 1960. On January 6, 1960, she was united in marriage with Wayne Cade, whom she had met while working at the Central Park Cafe in Pella, Iowa, and to this union a son, Curtis Lee, was born. Wayne died on February 24, 1962. On June 7, 1963, she was united in marriage with Dale Lyn Kane at Trenton, Missouri. To this union two children were born: Brenda Sue and Joel Lyn. Delores and Dale lived around Pella all their married life. Delores worked in the cooking field at various facilities including Hilltop Manor, Pella Community Hospital, Strawtown Inn and the Pella Golf & Country Club all her life. Not only was she a talented cook, who made the best Dutchmess, but she enjoyed being with people. She was a very social person and enjoyed visiting and having company. Her husband, Dale, passed on March 2, 1994, at the age of just 53 years following a 7 month illness with cancer. On August 1, 2000, she was united in marriage with Charles Mehls. Delores and Charles spent their lives together living at 1062 Highway T17 near Pella. Delores continued collecting Delft, scrapbooking and enjoying playing cards. She was very competitive! On June 1, 2009, Delores was diagnosed with a peritrachial mass and passed away 12 days later, June 12, 2009, at Mercy Hospital Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 66 years. Those who will cherish her memory are her husband, Charles; their five children and their families: Curtis Kane of Pella, Iowa; Brenda and Douglas Hoksbergen of Montezuma, Iowa; Joe Kane and his special friend, DeAnn Martin of Ankeny, Iowa; Carlene (Mehls) and Kelly Colleman of Perry, Iowa; Ken and Julie Mehls of Johnston, Iowa. Delores leaves a special niece, Gayley Ver Meer, who was raised like a daughter, and her friend, Lola, of Ottumwa, Iowa; her brother, Donald John (Doc) Ver Meer and Teresa of Pella; her sister, Linda Kay and her husband, Willis Roose, of Pella; along with the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Barry and Connie Kane, Janice (Kane) and Bob Buyert, Max and Joyce Kane all of Pella, Mary (Kane) and Harry Braafhart of Pleasant Hill, Iowa. Delores was preceded in death by her husbands, Wayne Cade and Dale Kane; her father, Anthony Ver Meer, who died on November 15, 1951, at the age of just 40 years and her mother, Walterena Ver Meer, who died on February 18, 2001, at the age of 84 years; an infant brother, Kenneth John Ver Meer, who died in a tragic auto accident on September 1, 1951, at the age of just 14 months; and parents-in-law, Dale and Ina Roush Kane. Delores was a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a sister, and an aunt who loved unconditionally. To all she would lend a listening ear.
Memorials may be given to the Delores Kane Mehls Memorial Fund to be designated later.
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Arvin De Cook,
July 22, 1957 - June 07, 2009
Sully, Iowa
Visitation: visitation begins after 3:00 p.m. Tuesday , at Lynnville Friends Church, Lynnville, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Tuesday, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. , at Lynnville Friends Church, Lynnville, Iowa
Funeral Service: Wednesday, June 10 at 1:30 p.m. , at Lynnville Friends Church, Lynnville, Iowa
Interment: Friends Cemetery at Lynnville
Arvin Floyd De Cook was a son of Armand and Frances Brand De Cook. He was born in Oskaloosa, Iowa on July 22, 1957. Arvin grew up near Sully, Iowa where he attended the Sully Schools and graduated from Sully High School with the Class of 1975. Already at an early age farming became a way of life for Arvin. On September 7, 1984, he was united in marriage with Lenis Gae Earp, a daughter of Thomas Edward and Virginia Lois Compton Earp. Arvin and Lenis made their home west of Sully and God blessed their union with wonderful children: Tessa Rae, Danielle Lenae and Adam Colby and Lacie Elynn . Arvin loved the farm and working the land. He also had a fond interest in restoring vintage Farmall tractors and Hit and Miss gas engines. In addition he had a passion for mission projects. For the past 11 years Arvin was involved in mission projects on the Mexican border working with "Senda de Vida" Way of Life Ministry. Arvin was a faithful member of the Lynnville Friends Church in Lynnville, Iowa where he was presently serving as an Elder. He also served for many years on the Friends Cemetery Committee. In addition to to his work on the farm, Arvin always had time for family projects, including family parade floats, helping with tree forts, riding 4-wheeler, backyard landscaping and family fireworks. On Sunday afternoon, June 7, 2009, Arvin passed away at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa following a recent automobile/tractor accident on May 22, 2009, two months prior to his 52nd birthday. Those left to honor his memory are his family: his wife, Lenis; children: Tessa and her husband, R.J. Van Dyke of Pella, Iowa, Danielle De Cook and Adam De Cook both at home, Lacie and her husband Ronnie Dykstra and their three children: Chase, Lance and Collin of Newton, Iowa. Arvin leaves his parents: Armand and Frances De Cook of Sully; his father-in-law, Thomas Earp of Sully; a sister, Ruth Ann and her husband, Douglas Dop and their three children: Matthew, Kurtis and Kyle of Monroe, Iowa; his brother, Mark De Cook and his wife, Karla and his three children: Tammy, Tonya and Mallory of Sully; and the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Warren and Pat Earp of Florence, Texas, Wyatt and Cindy Eart of Osage Beach, Missouri, Louise (Earp) Rorebeck of Ankeny, Iowa, Diane Earp of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Sheila (Earp) and Harlan Van Wyhe of Sully; along with a host of family and countless friends. Arvin was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Virginia Earp and a sister-in-law, Rhonda (Earp) Gosselink.
Memorials may be given to the Arvin De Cook Memorial Fund to be designated for Texico Mission Projects.
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Carolyn Jaarsma Lubbers,
August 19, 1963 - June 04, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Sunday, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Monday, June 8 at 2:00 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery in Pella
Carolyn Ruth Jaarsma was born on August 19, 1963, in Pella, Iowa. She was the eldest of three daughters born to Ralph and Elaine (Nagel) Jaarsma. Carolyn grew up working in her family’s bakery where she learned the value of a dollar and hard work. Through her involvement in 4-H, Carolyn won special awards at the Iowa State Fair for an original needlework project and her muesli cookies. She attended the Pella Community Schools and graduated from Pella High School in 1982. During college Carolyn began working at Mode Huis, a women’s clothing store in Pella. Immediately after graduating from Central College in 1986, Carolyn and her partner, Mary (and Julie) Brillhart, bought the clothing business, Mode Huis, they continued to operate together until 1996. Many will remember Carolyn for her eye for complimentary styles and her personal attention to her customers. Randy Lubbers wooed Carolyn with flowers and got her to experience things her family never dreamed possible such as tent camping trips and attending sprint car races in Knoxville, Iowa (each just once!) They were married on August 7, 1993 in Pella. Randy’s love and devotion allowed Carolyn to blossom and accomplish things she hadn’t imagined possible. Carolyn’s nurturing and patience helped ground Randy and provide him a loving refuge. The birth of her children fulfilled Carolyn’s dream of being a mother. Elyse Kristina was born on January 6, 1996 (the first baby of the new year), and Luke Henri was born on August 2, 1999. Although she continued to work part time at Jaarsma Bakery, most of her energy was devoted to creating a home where her family felt loved and secure. Carolyn’s kids were her top-priority and they brought her great joy. She went out of her way to find special activities for her family to do together as well as simply celebrating the everyday. These wonderful memories will last forever. In 2004, Randy accepted a call to become the pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Lake Crystal, Minnesota. Carolyn readily shared her gifts of hospitality and nurturing through her many projects with her new church family, just as she had at First Reformed Church in Pella previously. She had taught Sunday School and led Vacation Bible School, she organized mid-week, Tulip Time, and Thanksgiving meals, and collaborated on church cookbooks in both congregations. Carolyn reflected the love of Jesus through actions, not words. Carolyn was a homemaker in every sense of the word. Her home was cozy and welcoming to all. Neighborhood kids flocked to her house knowing they would find home baked goodies, crafty projects, fun times, and unconditional love. Carolyn loved to spoil her friends and family with gifts made with her own hands: strawberry jam (especially for her dad), cheesecakes of all varieties, and most specially, beautiful cross-stitched masterpieces. The kids in the family will never forget Carolyn’s crazy driving to make for a fun ride, macaroni and cheese with chicken nuggets and lemonade on Saturdays, rain puddles and worms, and rounds of tickling. Carolyn died on June 4, 2009, at Immanuel St. Joseph’s Hospital in Mankato, Minnesota after a courageous 4-year battle with ovarian cancer at the age of just 45 years. Even through her toughest times, people were amazed by her patience and zest for life. She continued to care for and serve others first and to find joy and humor all around her. Shortly after receiving her cancer diagnosis, Carolyn told her mom, “I’m going to live until I die.” Carolyn is survived by her husband, Rev. Randy Lubbers and their children, Elyse and Luke of Lake Crystal;a step-son, John Lubbers and his fiancée, Stephanie Knorr of Prescott, AZ; her parents, Ralph and Elaine Jaarsma of Pella, IA; two sisters and their husbands and children: Kristi and Dave Balk, Aric and Alli and Lisa and Brian Zylstra, Andrew and Matthew all of Pella, IA; aunts and uncles: Betty (Nagel) and John Sikkink of Apple Valley, Minnesota, Bernace (Jaarsma) Johnson and Howard and Ethel Jaarsma, all of Pella, IA; her parents-in-law, Charles and Arlene Lubbers and grandmother-in-law, Sylvia Lubbers of Orange City, IA; eleven cousins; two Dutch “sisters” Miriam Quataert and Danielle Van Zuiden; other family and many friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Frank and Celia Keuning Jaarsma and Floyd and Ruth Nagel.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to either a fund for Carolyn’s children or to the First Presbyterian Church in Lake Crystal, Minnesota.
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Genevieve Vande Lune,
February 12, 1919 - June 03, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Friday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Saturday, June 6 at 1:30 p.m. , at Covenant Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Black Oak Cemetery at Pella
Genevieve Drewes was born on February 12, 1919, in Muskegan, Michigan. She was an only daughter of Andrew and Tina Hesse Drewes. Both she and her two brothers, Henry and Egbert, attended the public school and being a city girl and the fact her parents didn't own a car, she did a lot of walking to and from school and church. She completed junior high, then did housework and babysitting until she was old enough to sew 'long johns' in a factory. In 1940 she and some of her girl friends piled into a 1929 Model A Ford and coasted down the hills into Iowa. Genevieve met Wilbert Gerrit Vande Lune at a young people's meeting at the Prairie City Christian Reformed Church in Prairie City, Iowa. From time to time she would ride back to Iowa from Michigan and this is when the romance began to flourish. The couple was married in the Drewes home in Michigan on August 25, 1942. Wilbert continued to work on Dad's farm for a while and then hired out as a farm hand and to this union four children were born: David Lee, Norma Jean, Ronald Paul and Joyce Elaine. Because Genevieve was a 'stay-at-home' city girl, she didn't mind living in the country even though she did miss electricity and indoor plumbing. In 1945 they rented their first farm near Cedar, Iowa and then moved to a farm near New Sharon, Iowa. In 1953 they moved East of Pella, Iowa and began to farm the land they eventually owned. This proved to be the place where their children grew up, had a large well-stocked pond close to the house and an attractive windmill which became a landmark. Genevieve and Wilbert (Bill) moved into Pella, 1342 Northwest Drive in 1976 and sold the farm in 1991. One can conclude immediately upon entering their home Genevieve was a 'flower-person' nor could she sit still. For several years she cleaned at Strawtown, was involved with the Pella Community Hospital Auxiliary, taught Sunday School and was president of the Senior Ladies Aid Society at the First Christian Reformed Church. She enjoyed reading, ceramics, baking and cooking. Genevieve received much enjoyment and pleasure in visiting the shut-ins in the nursing home, particularly at Christmas time. Genevieve and Wilbert did some traveling throughout the United States and on December 20, 2001, he passed away at the age of 83 years. Genevieve was able to continue living in their home and when discussing her health was thankful "she could get up and get about". On Wednesday evening, June 3, 2009, she passed away on arrival at the Pella Regional Health Center having recently celebrated her 90th birthday. Those who will cherish her memory are her four children and their spouses and their families. They are: David and Darlene (Conn) Vande Lune of Pella, Iowa; Norma and Gilbert Christensen of Altoona, Iowa; Ronald and Kris Vande Lune of Pella, Iowa;and Rick Place of Pella, Iowa. Of her original family Genevieve leaves her sister-in-law, Betty (Egbert) Drewes of Wadsworth, Ohio; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Frances (Vande Lune) Van Haaften, Marvin and Mary Lou Vande Lune, Shirley (Vande Lune) and Joe Schutte and Esther (Leonard) Vande Lune all of Pella, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilbert; a granddaughter, Dana Vande Lune in 1982; her parents, Andrew and Tina Drewes; her parents-in-law, William and Lena Vander Wiel Vande Lune; her two brothers: Henry Drewes and his wife, Trina and Egbert Drewes; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Gertrude (Vande Lune) and Gert Van Dyke, Ruth (Vande Lune) and Merle Kallemyn, Ernest Van Haaften and Leonard Vande Lune. Genevieve was a member of the Covenant Reformed Church in Pella at the time of her death. She enjoyed keeping track of her family in photo albums and the greatest gift she gave them was the training they received by being raised in a Christian home. There was no place like "home sweet home".
Memorials may be given to the building fund of the Covenant Reformed Church or the “Back to God Hour” radio ministry broadcast.
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Anthony F. Tysseling,
June 02, 1908 - May 28, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: beings Monday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Monday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, June 2, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. , at Second Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Anthony Francis Tysseling was born in Pella, Iowa on June 2, 1908. His father was Gerrit Teunis Tysseling who operated the flour and feed mill in South Pella until it burned down in 1900 at which time he built his family home on the same foundation. The rest of Gerrit’s working life was spent at the Blommers Flour Mill in West Pella. His mother was Nellie Breen, who gave birth to three children, all of them after she was forty-one years old. His older sister, Anna Wilhelmena, taught music in the Pella Schools until she died in 1975. His younger brother, Richard Albertus (Babe), distinguished himself as an athlete and coached at Central College, served as athletic director, and later as director of admissions. He died in 1997. Anthony was attracted to Florence Gertrude Boot when they were both in junior high school and in 1930, on a hot August afternoon, they married in the front yard of her family home on East Liberty Street. They were married for 71 years until she died in 2001. She was employed at what was then called the Rolscreen Company from its very early days, and served as Peter H. Kuyper's private secretary until 1940. After attending Central College, Anthony went into the retail shoe business, buying the Two Vans Shoe Store on the south side of Franklin Street and later opening Tysseling's Shoe Store on Main Street just north of the Marion County Bank. He spent thirty-eight years in the shoe business, the last several years in the T & D Department Store. After he sold the business he worked for the State of Iowa as a food inspector. An athlete and a sports fan, “Tys”, as he was called by his friends, was a founding member of the Pella Golf and Country Club. He played golf until he was 97 years old. Competitive and determined, he was the club champion more than once and he also scored a hole in one. He played tennis in college, winning a state championship. Always an avid supporter of anything that had to do with Central College, he was especially fond of athletics. In later years, when he went to football games, women's softball and men's baseball games, and could no longer walk comfortably, he'd park his car where he could watch the games as he listened on the car radio. He was honored by Central College as an outstanding alumni in 2007. He also followed both Pella High School and Pella Christian High School sports and was a long-suffering Chicago Cubs fan. Through the years he was a faithful member of the Second Reformed Church and Rotary, where he was a Paul Harris Fellow. He and Florence were active participants in several bridge and dinner clubs and they danced in costume and wooden shoes with the Dutch Dancers during Tulip Time. He was a regular attendee of the 8:00 Coffee Group at In’t Veld’s, several members of which became surrogate family for him as his health deteriorated during his later years. He is survived by his daughter, Linda Ann, and her husband Raymond White; his son Anthony Richard, and his wife, Lois, and six grandchildren: Martin van Doorninck, Alison van Doorninck Sax, John van Doorninck, Leslie Tysseling (Prewitt), Kelly Tysseling, and Amy Tysseling DeAndre. There are six great-grandchildren: Anna and William Prewitt, Mason, Parker, and Ellie Jo DeAndre, and Holly van Doorninck.
The family has designated the Second Reformed Church or Central College for memorial contributions.
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Marvin Blom,
September 28, 1937 - May 24, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: beings Tuesday after 12:00 noon , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Visitation: family present, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Wednesday, May 27 at 10:30 a.m. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Marvin Duane Blom was born on September 28, 1937, near Sully, Iowa. He was the fifth of six children that were born to Tunis and Jennie Roelofsen Blom. “Marv” graduated from the Sully Christian Grade School and was a member of the last class to graduate from Sully High School in 1955. During high school Marv already excelled in sports, especially football. On February 16, 1956, he was united in marriage with JoAnn Memmelaar, a daughter of Bernard and Carrie Vos Memmelaar, at the Leighton Christian Reformed Church in Leighton, Iowa. To this union five children were born: Vincent Marvin, Rickie Gene, Randie Lee, Barbara Jo and Julie Ann. Following their marriage, Marv first began working at a plumbing shop in Newton, Iowa. He then began farming north of Pella, Iowa. Marv was a seed corn salesman for O’s Gold for a few years and then operated a Vermeer farmer-dealer baler business for 27 years. Work did not keep Marv from enjoying and doing other things. Marv drove school bus for Pella Community Schools for 18 years. He refereed basketball and football games and umpired many, many softball games. He was an avid softball fan watching his sons pitch and later his granddaughters play for Pella Christian High School. Marv collected antique tractors and enjoyed going on cruises and traveling. Marv had a heart for missions and spent many volunteer hours working for CRWRC organizing work trips for disaster response in the U.S. He also coordinated the local community connections outreach program for Marion County. On Sunday afternoon, May 24, 2009, he passed away at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella at the age of 71 years, 7 months and 26 days. Those who will cherish his memory are his wife, JoAnn; their five children and their spouses and their families: Vincent and Linda (Van Dyke) Blom of Pella, Iowa; Rickie and Sue (Kinion) Blom of Reasnor, Iowa; Randie and Marla (Van Wyk) Blom of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Barbara and Shawn Hobson of Des Moines, Iowa; Julie and Tom Woodner of Burnsville, Minnesota. Of his original family Marvin leaves his two sisters and a brother and their spouses: Evelyn V. and Paul Farnham of Gowrie, Iowa, Donna L. (Ivan) Kaldenberg of Pella, Floyd E. and Lavonne Blom of Algona, Iowa; his two sisters-in-law: Elizabeth (G. James) Blom and Beulah (Chuck) Blom both of Pella; along with the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Leona (Memmelaar) Vande Voort of Leighton, Bernice (Memmelaar) and Willard Bronger of Wheaton, Illinois, Nancy (Memmelaar) and Ronald Swank of Sully and John Memmelaar of Des Moines, Iowa. Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, Tunis and Jennie Blom; his parents-in-law, Barney and Carrie Memmelaar; two brothers: Guysbert James Blom and Carroll Laverne (Chuck) Blom; his brothers-in-law: Ivan Kaldenberg and Gary Vande Voort, and a sister-in-law, Nanci (John) Memmelaar. Marvin loved his grandchildren and enjoyed playing cards. He was an active, faithful member of the Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella and had a heart for helping others as was evident with his involvement with the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, World Missions and most recently Community Connections.
The family has designated the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, Hospice of Pella or Community Connections serving Marion County for memorial contributions.
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Lenora J. Nikkel,
February 19, 1927 - May 19, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: all day Thursday , family present 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Faith Christian Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Friday, May 22 at 10:30 a.m. , at Faith Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Lenora Josephine Van Rees was born on February 19, 1927, west of Sully, Iowa. She was the first of five children who were born to Lawrence and Wilma Lanser Van Rees. Lenora began her elementary education at the Perkins Country Grade School and, after her graduation from the Sully Christian Grade School, she continued to help on the family farm. On February 11, 1947, she was united in marriage with Bernie M. Nikkel, the fifth of ten children born to Marcelis and Anne Baarda Nikkel. Lenora and Bernie began raising their family on a farm northeast of Monroe, Iowa, and in 1954, moved to a farm southeast of Sully. To this Godly union, eleven children were born: Bernie Wayne, Timothy Lee, Marianne, Lynnette Sue, Cynthia Kay, Daniel Dean, Sharon Elaine, Krista Lynn, Martin Lawrence and Nora Jean. Their faith in God, dedication and hard work proved to be the forces that supported and maintained their family. In 1993, they retired from the farm, but not from working. They moved into Pella, Iowa, where Bernie assumed maintenance duties at Hilltop Manor, while Lenora continued working as a certified nurses’ aide. She was a self-motivated person and was fulfilled through attaining this certification. She enjoyed helping people in this capacity at Skiff Memorial Hospital in Newton, Iowa, and the Pella Community Hospital for over 25 years until she retired. Following Bernie’s heart attack, she cared for him until he went home to heaven on December 14, 2005, at the age of 81 years. Lenora missed Bernie dearly, but drew comfort from her beloved children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Early on Tuesday morning, May 19, 2009, she joined Bernie in heaven, leaving this earth peacefully in her home at the age of 82 years and 3 months. Those who will cherish her memory are her many children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They and their families are: B.Wayne and Kimberly Nikkel of Ankeny, IA; Tim and Evelyn Nikkel of Pella, IA; Marianne and Marion Vink of Pella, IA; Lynnette and Gary Christensen of Sully, IA; Cynthia and Loren Bogaards of Pella, IA; Dan and Joan Nikkel of Oskaloosa, IA; Sharon and Brett Musgrove of Pella, IA; Krista and Randy Stromley of Urbandale, IA; Marty Nikkel of Pella, IA; Nora and Wayne Ritter of Sully, IA. Of her original family she leaves the following sisters and brother and their spouses: Henrietta and Wilford Laverman of Sully; twins, Joann (Ben) Verhey of Pella and Joyce Brand and her husband, Charles of Newton; and Dave and Bonnie Van Rees of Lynnville, Iowa. Of her late husband Bernie’s family, the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law are surviving: Cornelia (Henry) Vander Weerdt and Elizabeth (John) Vander Weerdt of Pella; Marcella and Lester Laverman of Sully; Linda and Maurice Rozendaal of Lynnville; Lester and Marilyn Nikkel and Wilda (John H.) Nikkel of Sully. Lenora was preceded in death by her husband, Bernie M. Nikkel; a stillborn child; two grandsons: Thomas J. Christensen and Cody L. Nikkel; her parents, Lawrence and Wilma Van Rees; her parents-in-law: Marcelis and Anne Nikkel; her brother-in-law, Ben Verhey; and the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Henry and John Vander Weerdt; John H. Nikkel; James M. and Sadie Nikkel; Pauline and Clarence Laverman; and Matilda and Arthur Van Maanen. Lenora had been a faithful, long-time member of the Sully Christian Reformed Church and, at the present time, was a member of the Faith Christian Reformed Church in Pella. Lenora leaves the gift of many joyous memories as an effervescent, creative, faithful Christian mother, grandmother of 39 grandchildren and great-grandmother of 29 great-grandchildren. Her faith in the Lord, her joy in life and her unwavering dedication to family will be forever remembered.
The family has designated Bethany Christian Services for memorial contributions .
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John Schippers,
November 09, 1921 - May 15, 2009
Visitation: Monday from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. May 18, 2009 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Graveside Service: Tuesday 10:00 a,m. May 19, 2009 at Oakwood Cemetery in Pella, Iowa
John Schippers was born Willie Schipers on November 9, 1921, south of Pella, Iowa. He was the youngest of five children that were born to Andrew and Alida Popma Schippers. John lived in this vicinity during his childhood years and attended the Pleasant Grove Country Grade School. During World War II he served with the United States Navy. John was united in marriage with Betty J. Koopmans and to this union a daughter, Connie Sue, was born. John was a pilot and self-employed during his lifetime. He farmed near New Sharon, Iowa and for many years was in sales. He owned and operated car washes, sand and gravel pits and heavy equipment. On June 4, 1980, he was united in marriage with Nancy Joan Engleman Clary. John and Joan made their residence in Arkansas. John enjoyed fishing and traveling. When returning to Pella, Iowa he often brought fruit to share with family and friends. Most importantly he will be remembered for his strong political convictions which he shared publicly. On Friday evening, May 15, 2009, he passed away at his residence in Rogers, Arkansas at the age of 87 years, 6 months and 6 days. Surviving are his wife, Joan Schippers of Rogers, Arkansas and her two sons and their family: Justin Clary of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Kent Clary and his wife, Melissa and their two daughters, John’s granddaughters, Courtney and Brittany of Pearidge, Arkansas; his daughter, Connie Sue and her husband, Larry Myers of Pella, Iowa; a sister-in-law, Jennie (Francis) Schippers of Pella; and several nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Alida Schippers; his two sisters and two brothers: Henrietta (Bastiaan) Goemaat, Leonard (Alice) Schippers, Francis Schippers and M. Magdalene (Harold) Groeneweg. John was affiliated with the Church of the Open Bible.
The family has designated Circle of Life (Hospice of Arkansas) for memorial contributions.
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Phyllis Bokhoven,
November 05, 1932 - May 10, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Wednesday after 11:00 am , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Wednesday 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 14 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Phyllis Jean Veenendaal was born on November 5, 1932, at Pella, Iowa. She was an only daughter born to Marinus and Sarah Stouwie Veenendaal. Phyllis attended the Pella Christian Grade School and made her home with her parents as a young girl. On September 15, 1953, she was united in marriage with Paul Lauterbach. The first day of their honeymoon, September 16, 1953, he was killed in a tragic automobile accident. Phyllis continued to make her home with her parents. On May 28, 1959, she was united in marriage with Arthur Henry Bokhoven at Pella. Art had lost his first wife, Freda Fern Pothoven, on August 4, 1953, at the young age of 28 years due to infectious hepatitis, and his youngest daughter, Darlene Gail, at the age of 2 ½ years on November 8, 1953, in a tragic automobile accident south of Sully, Iowa. Phyllis and Art and his older daughter, Karen Joy who was born on October 17, 1948, became a family and were joined by three other children: Jeffrey Dean who was born on July 19, 1961, Kelvin Eugene on November 14, 1962 and Lisa Mae on September 19, 1966. Following their marriage Phyllis and Art built their home west of Pella, which at that time was Dr. Verploeg’s pony farm. Art operated his own feed business under the name, Swine Consultant Services, while Phyllis was a dedicated homemaker. For many years she worked as a beautician cutting hair. Phyllis enjoyed doing hand work, quilting and doing volunteer work. On Sunday morning, May 10, 2009, she passed away at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella at the age of 76 years, 6 months and 5 days. Those who will cherish her memory are four children and their spouses, 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. They and their families are: Karen and Harvey Schreur of Princeton, Minnesota; Jeffrey and Kari L. (Venenga) Bokhoven of Pella, Iowa; Kelvin and Jodi L. (Staker) Bokhoven of Pella, Iowa; Lisa M. and Bruce Freesemann of Altoona, Iowa. Phyllis was the last surviving member of her original family and leaves her sister-in-law, Mary (Jerry) Veenendaal of Pella; along with the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Jeanne (Bokhoven) and Dr. Clarence Vos of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Irene (Bokhoven) and Lawrence Blom, Dena Bokhoven, Anne Bokhoven all of Pella, Leonard and Ruth Roose of Phoenix, Arizona, Marie (Herman) Bokhoven of Pella; Ruth (Lauterbach) of Council Bluffs, Iowa and Gertrude (Lauterbach) Burch of Cedar Falls, Iowa. Phyllis was preceded in death by her two husbands: Paul Lauterbach, and Arthur Bokhoven who passed away January 21, 2001; her parents, Marinus and Sarah Veenendaal; her parents-in-law, H. W. and Antonia Bokhoven; her two brothers: Jerry Veenendaal, LeRoy Veenendaal and his wife, Patricia; and the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Herman Bokhoven, Gerrit Bokhoven and his wives, Wilma and Lilla (Dee), Minnie (Bokhoven) Roose, Anthony and Caroline Bokhoven. Phyllis was an active, faithful member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella where she enjoyed quilting and sewing. Her family remembers her sitting on the northwest corner of the square during each parade of Tulip Time, watching for her late husband, Art Bokhoven, as he walked by ringing his bell as Pella’s Town Crier and later for her son Kelvin, who inherited that role. The love she had for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and the enjoyment and pleasure she experienced being surrounded by family and friends will be a cherished memory for her family. Online condolences may be made at www. vandykduven.com. Arrangements by Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home.
The family has designated Hospice of Pella or Chronic Disease Fund for memorial contributions.
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Jane Snyder,
December 10, 1952 - May 09, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begin Tuesday after 11:00 a.m. , at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pella
Visitation: family present, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with Wake Service at 7:00 p.m. , at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pella
Funeral Service: Wednesday, May 13 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Jane Marie Stauffer was the second of four children that were born to John and Ruth Marie Stalder Stauffer. She was born on December 10, 1952, in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. Jane attended WACO Community Schools where she graduated from high school in Olds, Iowa, with the Class of 1971. Jane was valedictorian of her class. She then enrolled at Central College in Pella, Iowa and while attending Central, Jane met Gerald Thomas Snyder as he was cruising around the town square on his motorcycle. On June 8, 1973, they were united in marriage at St. James Catholic Church in Washington, Iowa. Jane graduated Magna Cum Laude from Central College in 1975 with a major in elementary education. Following her graduation she became the mother of four children: Pamela Jo who was born April 15, 1974, Kelly Marie on April 18, 1977, Grant Everett on February 6, 1980 and Jaci Lynn on September 7, 1981. Jane was a devoted homemaker and did substitute teaching. After the children were grown she began working at Precision Pulley and Idler in the shipping department in 1990. Jane was a dedicated employee of Precision Pulley for 18 years and was employed in the accounting department at the time of her untimely death. On Saturday afternoon, May 9, 2009, she passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of just 56 years, 4 months and 29 days. Those who are mourning her loss are her husband, Gary; their three daughters and their husbands and their son: Pamela and Bryce Biklen of West Des Moines, Iowa, Kelly and Jay Bickford of Wellman, Iowa, Grant Snyder and his fiancé, Laura Pace of Des Moines, Iowa, Jaci and Aaron Vander Meiden of Pella; five grandchildren: Zachary Cole Biklen, Molly Grace Biklen, Samuel Holden Bickford, Emma Jane Bickford, and Hannah Elizabeth Vander Meiden. Jane leaves her mother, Ruth Stauffer of Wayland, Iowa; two brothers and their wives: John L. and Rachael Stauffer of Wayland, Mark and Diana Stauffer of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; her sister, Marcia and her husband, Donald Slycord of Pella; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, James and Kathy Snyder of Augusta, Georgia; several nieces and nephews and cousins and numerous friends. She was preceded in death by her father, John Stauffer, who passed away December 20, 2000. Jane was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pella where she had taught education classes and Bible School. She was an avid picture taker, a good baker, and enjoyed gardening and quilting. Jane was well known to family and friends for her selfless acts of kindness, unmatched generosity, unconditional love of life and heart of gold. She loved being with friends and family and her grandchildren were her pride and joy.
The family has designated Hospice of Pella Comfort House for memorial contributions.
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Jeannette Van Den Berg,
September 29, 1919 - May 05, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins after 11:00 a.m. Friday , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 9 at 10:00 a.m. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery
Jeannette Elizabeth Kaldenberg was the fourth of twelve children born to Rutt and Sibbelina(Sadie) Catharina Sjaardema Kaldenberg. She was born on September 29, 1919, in Sully, Iowa. She completed high school in Sully in 1937, the first of her siblings to have the opportunity to graduate. She obtained a teaching certificate from William Penn College in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Jeannette was 18 years of age when she started teaching at Pease, Minnesota. After a year she took a teaching job at Rose Hill Country School near Galesburg, Iowa. The school director, John van den Berg, and his wife, Mary, provided room and board for her and that is how she met her future husband, their son, Evertt Jerry Van Den Berg. Jeannette and Jerry were married on October 12, 1940, in Pella, Iowa. They lived in Newton, Iowa where Jerry was employed at Parsons Company and Jeannette was a homemaker. During World War II they lived a short time in Bremerton, Washington where they worked at the shipyards. After the war, they returned to the Van Den Berg family farm near Galesburg, Iowa. They were blessed with five children: Judith Lavonne, Jerry Lee, Jimmy Lynn, Janet Louise and Joan Lori. Jerry and Jeannette enjoyed living on the farm where they raised their children. Jeannette worked part time when their children were older, but was primarily a homemaker and helped with the farm work. After Jerry’s retirement they enjoyed spending the winters in Mesa, Arizona for over 20 years. Jerry passed away unexpectedly on July 21, 2000, just prior to their 60th wedding anniversary. A year after his death, Jeannette sold the family farm home and moved into Midtown Apartments in Pella, Iowa and continued to winter in Arizona until 2 years ago. On Tuesday afternoon, May 5, 2009, Jeannette passed away at her residence in Pella five months prior to her 90th birthday. Those who will cherish her memory are her five children and their spouses, 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. They and their families are: Judith and Sidney Holden of Spokane, Washington; Jerry Van Den Berg of Ankeny, Iowa;Jim and Janice (Van Willigen) Vanden Berg of Pella, Iowa; Janet and Michael Chapman of Pella, Iowa; Joan Vanden Berg and Tim Kelly of Iowa City, Iowa. Of her original family, Jeannette leaves the following sisters and brothers and their spouses: Kathryn Van Zante of Pella, Dewey Kaldenberg of Ankeny, Iowa, George Kaldenberg of Florida, Ruth Hannay of Grinnell, Iowa, Agnes Masselink of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Sibel Hanson of Tucson, Arizona, Dot and Bob De Ronde of Pella, Chic Visser of Pella, Darlene and Wayne Klein of Pella. Jeannette was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; her parents, Rutt and Sadie Kaldenberg; her parents-in-law, John and Mary Ellerbroek Van Ryswyk van den Berg; her oldest brother and his wife, John and Ada Kaldenberg; three brothers-in-law: Harris Van Zante, Edward Hannay and Buck Visser; and two sisters-in-law: Minnie Mae Van Den Berg (Dewey) Kaldenberg and Lena (George) Kaldenberg. Jeannette was a faithful member of the Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa. She loved being outdoors, appreciated music and enjoyed crocheting, knitting, doing crossword puzzles and playing cards. Jeannette was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother and sister who loved to have fun with her family. She had a great sense of humor and shared many laughs with her siblings, especially on their yearly trips together. She was blessed with wisdom and good common sense, guided by her faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The family has designated Hospice of Pella or the Calvary Christian Reformed Church for memorial contributions.
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Judy Zylstra,
August 14, 1944 - April 22, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins after 11:00 a.m. Friday , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. , at Faith Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Saturday, April 25 at 1:30 p.m. , at Faith Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Judith Ann Brummel was born on August 14, 1944, at the Mahaska County Hospital in Oskaloosa, Iowa. She was the third of four children that were born to Lester John and Bonnie Louise Thatcher Brummel. Judy attended a rural Mahaska County, Iowa country grade school, graduated from Grant Elementary School in Oskaloosa and from Oskaloosa High School with the Class of 1962. Later that year on December 29, 1962, she married Claude Zylstra, the youngest child of Paul and Gertrude Vanden Hoek Zylstra, at the First Christian Church in Oskaloosa. To this union three children were born: Janet Sue, Thomas Claude and Timothy Jay. Their first home was in DeRidder, Louisiana before moving to Sioux Center, Iowa. They then lived in Pella, Iowa for four years until moving to Whitinsville, Massachusetts. Judy worked outside of the home in the offices of Whitinsville Christian School and Evangelical Christian School. After four years they moved to Memphis, Tennessee where they lived until returning to Pella where they lived for the past 30 years. Upon returning to Pella, Judy worked in the office of Van Gorp Corporation before working at De Waard and Van Maanen, CPA, which later became Van Maanen & Associates. She retired from active employment there in 2006. Judy was involved with many church activities. That which gave her the most pleasure was working with the Little Lambs (2-3 year old children) of the Coffee Break program in her church and getting the mentoring program, Kids Hope USA started between Faith Christian Reformed Church and Madison Elementary School in Pella. On Wednesday afternoon, April 22, 2009, she passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of 64 years. Judy is survived by her husband, Claude; their three children: Janet and her husband Joe Miller of Centennial, Colorado, Tom Zylstra of Honolulu, Hawaii, Tim Zylstra of Cameron, North Carolina; and six grandchildren: Daniel, Hannah, Abbey and Sarah Miller, Ashley and Raven Zylstra. Those of her original family left to cherish her memory are her mother, B. Louise Brummel, a resident at Vriendschap Village in Pella; her brother, B. Lee Brummel and his wife, Jackie of Dallas, Texas; a sister-in-law, Charlene ( Kenneth) Brummel of Davenport, Iowa; plus many other sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, uncles and aunts, nephews and nieces and cousins. Judy was preceded in death by her father, Lester J. Brummel; her parents-in-law, Paul and Gertie Zylstra, her brother, Kenneth John Brummel and her younger sister, Marilyn Jean Brummel.
In lieu of flowers, please give memorials to Kids Hope USA, Pella Christian Schools (grade or high school) or the Hospice of Pella Comfort House.
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Mark Vander Ploeg,
December 22, 1928 - April 13, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins after 10:00 a.m. Wednesday , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: Family present, Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Thursday, April 16 at 10:30 a.m. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery with military honors
Mark Owen Vander Ploeg was born on December 22, 1928, in Des Moines, Iowa to Diller and Caroline (Van Rheenen) Vander Ploeg. He was the second of four children. His siblings were Darl Edwin, Elaine Jean, and Ruth Diane. Mark attended the Pella Public Schools where he played football and was a trombonist in the band. After graduating from Pella High School in 1946, he attended Central College where he met his future wife, Carol Gae Ebert, in Central’s A Cappella Choir. He graduated from Central College in 1950 with a degree in History. In 1951, he was activated into the Air Force from the National Guard and was stationed in Bangor, Maine, where he served until 1952. He returned to Pella and married Carol on July 2, 1952, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Kellogg, Iowa. Soon thereafter he joined his father Diller and Uncle Nick Vander Ploeg in the family business, Vander Ploeg Bakery. In 1960, he and his cousin John (Bud) Vander Ploeg bought the business from their fathers and worked together for many years. Mark and Carol had three children: Emily Sue, Mary Jo, and Joel Mark. As a family, they enjoyed camping and traveled many places throughout the United States and Canada. In later years, Mark and Carol enjoyed traveling to visit their children and grandchildren. In 1979, following heart surgery, Mark sold the bakery. Then in 1980, he became director of development at the Christian Opportunity Center, a position he held for twelve years. Mark was active in the Pella community throughout his life. He served on the boards of the Pella Community Hospital, Hilltop Manor, and South Central Mental Health Board, and was a member of the Pella Historical Society, Dollars for Scholars, the Rotary Club, and the American Legion. Mark spent many hours taking long walks around Pella, stopping to visit with friends along the way. He also greatly enjoyed golfing. A highlight for him each morning was meeting his coffee group at In’t Veld’s Meat Market. Mark was baptized at First Christian Reformed Church in Pella and made profession of faith at age 17. He and Carol became charter members of Calvary Christian Reformed Church in 1955, and Mark often remarked how rewarding it was to be a part of the process of starting a new church. He served as a deacon, elder, and song leader for many years at Calvary Christian Reformed Church. Mark is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carol; daughter, Emily Sybesma, her husband Mark of Hull, Iowa, and their children: Kristin and Grant Elgersma, Tricia, Carolyn, and Andrew; daughter, Mary Post, her husband Jerry of Oak Park, Illinois, and their children, Benjamin and Maria; and son, Joel Vander Ploeg, of San Mateo, California. He is also survived by sisters, Elaine Postema and her husband Donald of Ann Arbor, Michigan; and sister, Ruth De Vries and her husband Edward of Grand Rapids, Michigan; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Carmen (Ebert) and Bill Gill of Kellogg, Iowa, Chrystal (Ebert) Lehfeld, Carol’s twin sister, of Des Moines, Iowa, and Gael (Bud) and Janet Ebert of Knoxville, Iowa, and many nieces, nephews, and favorite cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Diller and Caroline Vander Ploeg, his parents-in-law, Gustave and Amelia Hasselbrink Ebert, his older brother Darl and wife Miriam, and brothers-in-law and sister-in-law: Charles Lehfeld, Russell Parsons, and Joyce (Ebert) Parsons. Mark was diagnosed with a brain tumor in early February, 2009 and passed away at the Hospice of Pella.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Pella Christian Grade School or the Pella Christian High School.
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Nellie Terpstra,
April 25, 1914 - April 11, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present ,Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Wednesday, April 15 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella, Iowa
Nellie Van Kooten, the fourteenth of the seventeen children of Henry and Cornelia Schutt Van Kooten, was their second child to be born in the United States. Her older brothers and sisters were born in the Netherlands. She was born on April 25, 1914, in Mahaska County, north of New Sharon, Iowa. Nellie attended grade school near Searsboro, Iowa where she graduated from the 8th grade. During those years she was a basketball player who played guard. As a young girl Nellie made profession of her faith at the Sully Christian Reformed Church in Sully, Iowa. It was there that she met Harry A. Terpstra, an only child of Adam and Nettie Vander Leest Terpstra. Nellie and Harry were united in marriage according to the Ordinance of God and Laws of the State of Iowa at Searsboro on the 7th day of November in the year of our Lord 1930, by the Rev. G. Blystra. To this union five children were born: a son who died in infancy, Neola Caryl, Harley Addison, Afton Eugene and Russell Lee. The first sixteen years of their marriage were spent farming in the Sully and Killduff, Iowa area. Then in 1946, they moved to Pella, Iowa. Soon thereafter Harry became a truck driver while Nellie was employed as a waitress. She was employed at the Maid-Rite in 1958 when her daughter, Neola Kooyman, sustained extensive burns. Nellie terminated her employment to assist with her care. She later became a clerk at Black’s Style Shop in Pella, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Buying and selling clothing became a lifelong passion for Nellie. Her last employment was at the Rolscreen Company in Pella where she worked in the folding door department. She was gainfully employed there until she was 70 years of age. Nellie and Harry enjoyed their retirement on an acreage south of Pella where they were living when he passed away on July 25, 1991, at the age of 79 years. Following his death Nellie soon moved into an apartment at 700 Liberty Street in Pella. She enjoyed the years and the convenience of living there until her health necessitated more assistance, more than her daughter, Neola, could reciprocate in providing. Nellie became a resident at the Griffin Nursing Center in Knoxville, Iowa in July of 2007 where she passed away on Saturday afternoon, April 11, 2009, two weeks prior to her 95th birthday. Those who will cherish her memory are her daughter, two sons, a son-in-law, three daughters-in-law and their families: Neola and Marvin Kooyman of Pella, Iowa; Mary Ann Ferguson (Harley Terpstra) of Gilman, Iowa; Afton and Kathy (Derksen) Terpstra of Harvey, Iowa and Russell and Susie (Wolvers) Terpstra of Numa, Iowa. Of her original family, Nellie leaves her sister, Pauline (George) Terpstra of Pella, her brother, Albert Van Kooten of Port Smith, Arkansas and a sister-in-law, Lucille (Paul) Van Kooten of Denver, Colorado. Nellie was preceded in death by her husband, Harry Terpstra; her son who died in infancy in 1931, her son, Harley A. Terpstra, who was killed in a horse related accident in 1976 at the age of 40 years; an infant grandson, James Dean Terpstra, who died in infancy in 1962; her parents, Henry and Cornelia Van Kooten; her parents-in-law, Adam and Nettie Terpstra; eight brothers and their wives: Cornelius, who died as an infant of three months in Holland, Cornelius and Jennie Van Kooten, Henry and Wilma Van Kooten, Peter and Jennie Van Kooten, Roy and Nellie Van Kooten, Gerrit and Durky Van Kooten, Everett Van Kooten and Paul Van Kooten; and six sisters and their husbands: Tillie and Dick Van Klaveran, Hattie and John Van Arkel, Cornelia and Henry Van Steenwyk, Dena and Jake Van Kampen, Henrietta and her husbands, John Nieuwsma and Dick Rolffs, Cora and John Bruxvoort; a sister-in-law, Marie (Albert) Van Kooten and a brother-in-law, George (Pauline Van Kooten) Terpstra. Nellie was a longtime, faithful member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella or the “Back to God Hour” radio ministry broadcast.
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Mark Van Zee,
November 23, 1949 - April 09, 2009
Forsyth, MO
Memorial Service: Saturday, April 25, at 11:00 a.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Visitation and a luncheon will follow the memorial service , at First Christian Reformed Church
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery in Pella
On November 23, 1949, Clarence and Gertrude Viola Steenhoek Van Zee were blessed with a son they named Mark Lee Van Zee. As a child he grew to be a happy, healthy, loving, young boy and man. He was baptized at the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa at three months of age and made profession of his faith there when he was in his teens. Mark graduated from both the Pella Christian Grade School and Pella Christian High School after which he continued his education by attending Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa and Central College in Pella. During his high school and college years he worked with his Grandfather Prescott W. Steenhoek and his Dad, “Bub” Van Zee in their oil business and later joined his Dad in his vending business. He then worked for the De Jong Greenhouse. In 1975 he was married to Sally Kramer and they decided to move to Lynden, Washington to be near her family. Over a period of several years they were blessed with three girls and a boy, Leah Beth, Molly Jo, Maria Lynn and Aaron Mark. In Lynden Mark was employed at various jobs and later spent several years working for the ARCO Refinery. He was an active participant in his church, serving a term as an elder. He also enjoyed music and participated in a men’s chorus. He and his family enjoyed camping and sporting events together especially watching the Seattle Mariners. However, he always remained a true fan of the St. Louis Cardinals which interest he shared with his Dad and his younger brother, Clint P. Van Zee. Mark also enjoyed pets, especially his dog Monty, later his dog Max and his children’s pets as well. Recently he enjoyed riding his new Harley-Davidson motorcycle. During the years of his employment with ARCO Mark developed some health problems including diabetes and underwent two spinal surgeries. He found it increasingly difficult to continue his work and cope with his health problems which eventually led to his disability. He then came back to Pella to live with his parents. At this time he also helped his mother, Trudy, care for his Dad who was suffering the effects of both Parkinson’s Disease and small strokes. He was a great support to his mother at the time of her hip surgery on January 21 and his Dad’s passing on January 30 of 2008. In December of 2008, Mark and his friend, Connie Cash became engaged and moved to a home they had purchased together in Forsyth, Missouri. There he passed away on April 9, 2009, at the age of 59 years. Mark is survived by his mother, Gertrude (Trudy) Van Zee; his brother, Clint Prescott Van Zee and his fiancé, Suzanne Farver; his children: Leah B. Van Zee, Molly J. Van Zee, Maria L. and her husband Matt Wikkerink, Aaron M. Van Zee, along with their mother, Sally; one grandson, Luke Wikkerink; one nephew, Brett Van Zee and his wife Jane (Von Ashen) and their two children, Kate and Will Prescott Van Zee; two nieces: Lindsay and her husband Shane Alertsen and Jillian Van Zee; as well as his special friend, Connie Cash, aunts and uncle, cousins and friends. Mark was preceded in death by his father, Clarence P. Van Zee; his maternal grandparents, Prescott W. and Carrie Van Engelenhoven Steenhoek and his paternal grandparents, Henry J. and Anna Huigen Van Zee.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Dordt College at Sioux Center, Iowa or Central College in Pella, Iowa.
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Linda Horman,
July 10, 1944 - March 26, 2009
Knoxville, Iowa
Visitation: begins Sunday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Sunday from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday, March 30 at 11:00 a.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella, Iowa
Linda Marie Horman was born on July 10, 1944, in Des Moines, Iowa, the last of ten children that were born to Edward and Marie Korrevaar Horman. She was a special child that was given to their family. From the very beginning everyone realized that God had lovingly made her very special. Linda was baptized at the Otley Reformed Church in Otley, Iowa. She lived with her devoted, caring parents in Otley until her father passed away in 1970. She and her mother then moved into Pella, Iowa where Linda attended the Christian Opportunity Center, which was established in Pella in 1969. Linda was one of the first C.O.C. clients to move into the first group home. She enjoyed working in the workshop, doing puzzles and coloring. Linda enjoyed being around her big extended family. In August of 2003 she suffered a stroke. Subsequently she was admitted to the Griffin Nursing Center in Knoxville, Iowa where she suffered another stroke and passed away there on Thursday afternoon, March 26, 2009, at the age of 64 years, 8 months and 16 days. Linda’s big family includes the following brothers and sisters: Joe Horman of Pella, Ellen Dunaway of Monroe, Iowa, Martin Horman of Ocala, Florida, Jean Menninga of Pella, Carl Horman and his wife, Leona of Pella, Edwin Horman and his wife, Daisy of Garland, Texas; along with two sisters-in-law: Vera (Marion) Horman of Pella and Carolyn (John Horman) Burke of Runnells, Iowa; an Aunt Frances Ver Heul of Pella and many nieces and nephews. Linda was preceded in death by her parents: her father, Edwin Horman, on February 3, 1970, her mother, Marie Horman, on January 25, 1980; a sister, Geneva Swank, on June 26, 1957; two brothers: L. John Horman on August 17, 1993 and Marion D. (Pete) Horman on March 29, 1997; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Dorothy (Joe) Horman, Ellen Jean (Martin) Horman, Norman Dunaway, Peter R. Swank, Setrith Menninga and Janice (Edwin) Horman. Linda was a member of the First Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the First Reformed Church in Pella, IA.
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Simon Verhoef,
November 29, 1924 - March 19, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Family present on Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. March 22, 2009 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday, 11:00 a.m. March 23, 2009 at Calvary Christian Reformed Church Pella, Iowa
Interment: Evergreen Cemetery, Leighton, Iowa
Simon Verhoef, born the fifth of eight children on November 29, 1924 to William and Jannetje (Van der Lee) Verhoef in Baambrugge, The Netherlands passed away on March 19, 2009 in Pella, IA. He was baptized and made profession of faith in the Gereformerde Kerk of Baambrugge. On January 30, 1947 he married Johanna Griffeon. To that union was born three sons and two daughters: William, Gary, Janny, Nellie, and Daniel. In 1952 Simon and Johanna and their three oldest children immigrated to the United States. They rented a number of farms around Oskaloosa, IA finally buying a small dairy farm three miles east of Oskaloosa from Tone and Dorothy Vander Wilt. In 1975 Simon retired from farming. He and Johanna moved to Pella and he worked as a custodian for the Pella Public Schools for 12 years, retiring from that job in 1987. He was preceded in death by his wife, Johanna, of 57 years in 2004, as well as his parents, his sister Jannetje Vanden Bosch and brother, Harmen Verhoef. Those surviving him are his five children and their spouses, 16 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Rev. William and Ruth (Van Ee) Verhoef of Redlands CA, Gary and Corinne (Danhof) Verhoef of Pella IA, Janny and Gerald Van Dusseldorp of Colorado Springs CO, Nellie and Les Fee of Pella IA and Daniel and Lois (Kampenga) Verhoef of Fayetteville, GA. His surviving brothers and sisters are: Wim Verhoef of Pella, Mar Smit of The Netherlands, Jan and Rie Verhoef of The Netherlands, Nell De Groot of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Carrie and Tunis Van Walbeek of Pella, Brother-in-law: Barend Vanden Bosch of The Netherlands and Sister-in-law Emma Verheul of The Netherlands. Simon was a much loved father and grandfather who loved his children and doted on his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Hospice of Pella or the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella, Iowa.
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Henry A. Klein,
May 02, 1916 - March 06, 2009
Knoxville, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Thursday, March 12 at 1:30 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Henry Anthony Klein was born on May 2, 1916, in Pella, Iowa. He was the third of five children born to Anthony G. and Pauline Ver Ploeg Klein. Henry graduated from Pella Public High School at Pella in 1935. While in high school he lettered all four years in basketball and as a senior played the part of the Burgemeester in the operetta about Tulip Time in Holland. This operetta was such a success that it started the annual “Tulip Time” in Pella. Following his graduation from high school, Henry worked in the venetian blind department at the Rolscreen Company to earn money to attend the American Institute of Business in Des Moines, Iowa. In 1937 he was hired by the International Harvester Company in Des Moines where he was employed in the Accounting Department and as a Farm Equipment Stock Supervisor. On October 14, 1938, he was united in marriage with Esther De Wit, a daughter of Martin G. and Gertrude M. Van Rees De Wit, at the parsonage of the First Reformed Church in Pella. To this union two daughters were born: Karen Louise and Eileen Kay. Following their marriage, Henry and Esther located in Des Moines where he continued his employment with International Harvester. In 1944 Henry was given the opportunity to start his own International Harvester Store in Pella at which time they moved back to Pella. Henry and his brother-in-law, Jake De Ronde, started their first store in downtown Pella and in 1959 Henry built a new store north of Pella. After 42 years of business in Agricultural and Motor Truck Sales and Service in Pella, Henry sold the business and retired. During this time Henry was elected to the first International Harvester Dealer Council and was elected to the Iowa Retail Farm Equipment Association Board and served as its President in 1976. Henry was always very involved in the church and with community service. He served on the building committee for the First Reformed Church that was built in 1953. He had served as a Deacon and an Elder, Sunday school teacher and choir member. He was Treasurer for the Pella Classis of the Reformed Church for 25 years as well as a member of the Church Planning and Development Committee and Executive Committee. Henry served on the first Board of Directors of the Pella Community Hospital during its planning and financing stage of development and was Chairman of the Building Committee during the hospital’s construction period. Henry served as President of the Christian Opportunity Center Board of Directors and the Hilltop Manor Board of Directors in Pella. For 11 years Henry served on the Pine Rest Christian Hospital Board of Directors in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He served on the South Central Mental Health Board of Directors for Marion, Mahaska and Keokuk Counties and was President for 3 years. In 1984, Henry was honored by the Community Mental Health Centers Association of Iowa, Inc. of Des Moines for his unique and sustaining contribution to the Community Mental Health Center movement in Iowa. “Hank” furnished Farmall tractors and International Scouts for many years to pull the Pella Rotary Club tour wagons during Pella’s Tulip Time and for this contribution was given an honorary Rotary Club membership. “Hank” also worked closely with the Pella High School Vocational Agriculture teachers in providing equipment, demonstrations and presentations. For this contribution he was named an honorary member of the Pella Chapter of the FFA. For all his contributions he was very honored to receive the Pella Community Service Award in 1987. Henry and Esther enjoyed 62 years of married life together. They lived in their home on Columbus Street in Pella until moving into their new condominium in 1994. They enjoyed their retirement together and on May 10, 2001, Esther passed away at the age of 85 years. Henry moved into Vriendschap Village at Pella in 2003 and became a resident at the West Ridge Nursing & Rehab Center at Knoxville, Iowa in 2004. He suffered from Parkinson’s disease for several years, but never complained. Late Friday evening, March 6, 2009, he passed away there at the advanced age of 92 years, 10 months and 4 days. Those left to cherish his memory are his two daughters and their husbands, one grandson and two granddaughters and their spouses, four great-grandsons and two great-granddaughters. They are: Karen and James Venhuizen of Idaho Falls, Idaho; and Eileen and David Vanden Baard of Altoona, Iowa. Of his original family, Henry leaves his sister, Esther (Virgil) Boot of Pella. He was preceded in death by his wife, Esther; his parents, Anthony and Pauline Klein; his parents-in-law, M.G. and Gertrude De Wit; three sisters and their husbands: Lavina and Alfred Vander Werff, Lucille and Jacob De Ronde, Almira and Rev. Cornie Reynen; his brother-in-law, Virgil Boot; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Florence (De Wit) and Dick J. Ver Meer, Raymond and Gladys De Wit.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Christian Opportunity Center or First Reformed Church in Pella, IA.
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Virginia Hoogenakker,
April 08, 1921 - March 01, 2009
Jackson, MS
Visitation: Noon until service time , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Saturday, March 7 at 1:30 p.m. , at Chapel of Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery
Virginia Ruth Hoogenakker, 87, died Sunday, March 1,2009 at Highland Home. Miss Hoogenakker was born on April 8, 1921 in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of the late Timothy and Bertha Hoogenakker. A resident of Jackson since 1938, she graduated from Central High School and continued her education at Belhaven College. She received a Bachelor of Music in 1943 and was selected for listing in Who's Who among Students in American Colleges and Universities. After graduation, she attended Chicago Musical College where she received the Master of Music degree. She completed further study at DePaul University, Syracuse University and attended the Paul Christiansen Choral Workshops at Bemidji State Teachers College and Denver University. In the summer of 1960, at the invitation on Paul Christiansen, she sang in the Art Choir for the entire season at Chautauqua, NY. Miss Hoogenakker, an accomplished violinist, studied violin with Leon Sametini and Paul Stassevitch, composition with Max Wald, conducting with Rudolph Ganz and music history and literature with Hans Rosenwald. She was a charter member of the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and was principal of the second violin section of the orchestra. Miss Hoogenakker was also a member of the Jackson Opera Guild Orchestra. She has served on the Jackson Symphony Association Board of Governors and the Jackson Opera Guild Board. She was a former president and faithful life member of the Chaminade Club and served as the national president Mu Phi Epsilon. She holds life membership in the American String Teachers Association and the Choristers Guild. Miss Hoogenakker served as the Musical Director of Ascension Lutheran Church, where she served as organist and directed the chancel, chapel and carol choirs. She was a member of the Lutheran Church Women in American, Lutheran Society of Worship, Music and the Arts, was a member of the Southeastern Synodical Committee on Youth Activities. Miss Hoogenakker retired from Belhaven College as the Music Department Chair, beginning her career as an associate professor of violin and music theory. During her career she served as President of the Belhaven Faculty Club and the Jackson Music Teachers Association. She was honored by the school in 1963 as the Alumnus of the Year and in later in her career, the awarding of the Honorary Doctorate of Music. She will be remembered by her friends as a dedicated daughter who served as the caretaker for her mother since the untimely death of her father. She will be remembered for her smile, vivacious and bubbly personality and for her true love of music. She is survived by numerous cousins and friends.
Memorials may be made to Ascension Lutheran Church, PO Bpox 12246, Jackson, MS 39236
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Nathaniel Joseph Brooks,
February 27, 2009 - February 27, 2009
Oskaloosa, Iowa
Graveside Service: 1:30 pm March 02, 2009 at Oakwood Cemetery in Pella, IA
Kelli Jo and Justin Joe Brooks of Oskaloosa, IA gave birth to a premature son, Nathaniel Joseph, on Friday, February 27, 2009, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City, IA. He was seemingly a perfect little boy and would have been welcomed by a sister, MaKenzie and a brother, Alexander; maternal grandparents, Marty and Julie Van Wyk and Aunt Ashley Van Wyk of Leighton, IA; paternal grandparents, Debbie and John Vander Wert and uncles, Dustin Brooks and Steve Harrod of Pella, IA; along with great-grandparents: Marion and Nancy Terpstra, Lloyd and Betty Verploeg. Nathaniel now lives with Jesus and prayers of committal were held on Monday, March 2, 2009 at Oakwood Cemetery in Pella, IA.
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Angeline Vigneri,
December 26, 1922 - February 26, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Mass of Christian Burial, Monday at 10 a.m , at St. Patrick Catholic Church, St. Joseph, MO
Interment: Mt. Olivet Cemetery, St. Joseph, MO
Angelene Vigneri, 86, of Pella, Iowa, formerly of St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2009 at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella, Iowa. Angelene was born on December 26, 1922 in St. Joseph, Missouri, the daughter of Philip and Helen Dumitrov. Angelene graduated from Benton High School in St. Joseph. Angelene was a devoted wife, mother and homemaker. After raising her three children, she was employed with Southwestern Bell for five years. She later worked for St. Vincent DePaul Thrift Store part time for 15 years. Angelene met Joseph Vigneri, fell in love and on September 6, 1947 they were united in marriage at St. James Catholic Church in St. Joseph and for 62 years had a happy life together. She was an active member at St. Patrick and St. Mary Catholic Church and the Altar Society. In 2009, Angelene and Joseph moved to Pella, Iowa to be closer to their daughter Mary and her family. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, George Dumitrov and a half sister, Freida Reinhert. Survivors include her husband, Joseph; daughter, Mary Catherine Boles and husband Gary, Pella, Iowa; sons Dr. Phillip Vigneri and wife, Margie, Jersey City, New Jersey; Thomas Vigneri and wife, Goldie, Harrodsburg, Kentucky; one sister, Mary Shultz, Kansas City, Kansas; six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, with one more expected in July and one nephew and three nieces.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church of St. Joseph, Missouri.
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Anna Van Weelden,
March 27, 1918 - February 21, 2009
Visitation: Visitation will begin Monday noon where family will be present from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. February 23, 2009 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday morning February 24, 2009 at Sully Christian Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Anna Elizabeth Van Wyk was born on March 29, 1918, on a farm south of Sully, Iowa. She was the eighth of eleven children born to Dick and Anna Hoksbergen Van Wyk. By horse drawn buggy, Anna attended the Sully Christian Grade School through the 8th grade. At a very young age she learned to work, helping with the daily chores on the farm. On December 3, 1937, she married Dick Van Weelden from Otley, Iowa at her parent’s home near Sully. They moved into their first home near Otley and later moved to farms near Leighton and then south of Pella, Iowa. Dick decided he was tired of moving around so they purchased a farm north of Sully where they raised their six children: Harley Blaine, Ronald Bryce, Verna Lou, Dwight Leon, Marsha Lynn and Curtis Lee. Anna helped with the farming chores while raising a large garden to provide for the needs of their family. The family enjoyed visiting with neighbors and friends. Anna and Dick enjoyed traveling out west to the Black Hills and Yellowstone. In 1970 they built a ranch home west of the home place. After many years of hard work, they decided to move into Sully where they built a home on the west side of town. Anna settled into town life enjoying going out with family and friends while Dick continued to work on the farm. Dick’s health then began to decline and he passed away on March 20, 1999, at the age of 83 years. Anna continued to live in her home until her health declined. In November of 2003 she moved into Vriendschaap Village in Pella, Iowa and in October of 2005 became a resident in the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center. On Saturday morning, February 21, 2009, she passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House a month before her 91st birthday. Surviving are her six children and their spouses, 20 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren: Harley and Norma (Vander Streek) Van Weelden of Pella, Iowa, Ronald and Sandra (Willemsen) Van Weelden of Otley, Iowa, Verna and Arthur Zylstra of Pella, Iowa, Dwight and Jerilyn (Schmidt) Van Weelden of Lynnville, Iowa, Marsha Steenhoek of Ames, Iowa, Curtis and Amy (Smith) Van Weelden of Waukesha, Wisconsin. Of her original family Anna leaves one sister, Henrietta (Henry) Beyer of Pella; her three sisters-in-law: Anna Pauline (Lester) Van Wyk of Sully, Reva (Clarence) Van Wyk of Grinnell, Iowa, Hattie (Elmer) Van Wyk of Pella; and the following sisters-in-law: Tressie (Arie) Van Weelden, LaNora( Gysbert) Van Weelden, and Betty (Henry) Van Weelden all of Pella. Anna was preceded in death by her husband, Dick Van Weelden; her parents, Dick and Anna Van Wyk; her parents-in-law, Arie and Artjie De Jong Van Weelden; three sisters and their husbands: Emma Van Wyk who died in infancy, Emma and Gerrit Jochems, Triny and Cornie Jansen; and six brothers and their wives: William D. and Nellie Van Wyk, Raymond and Dora Van Wyk, Louis and Christine Van Wyk, Lester Van Wyk, Clarence Van Wyk, and her brother-in-law, Henry Beyer. Anna was a member of the Sully Christian Reformed Church in Sully for many years where she enjoyed Golden Hour and other women’s societies. After moving to Pella she joined the Calvary Christian Reformed Church. Anna always enjoyed visiting.
Memorials may be designated for the Sully Christian Grade School in Sully, Iowa or Hospice of Pella
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Skip Dugger,
October 26, 1941 - February 18, 2009
Visitation: Sunday with the family present from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. February 22, 2009 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. February 23, 2009 at First Reformed Church
Marlene Lamont Dugger was born on October 26, 1941, at What Cheer, Iowa. He was the third of four children that were born to Bernard LeRoy and Juanita Lydia Smith Dugger. At an early age he acquired the name of “Skip”, the origin of which was never really known but one he continued to use the remainder of his life. Skip graduated from Tri-County High School at Thornburg, Iowa with the Class of 1959. On April 15, 1961, he was united in marriage with Mary Kay Spading and to this union two sons were born: James Roy and Timothy Lynn. Jim and Tim remember their Dad as a fun loving guy who cared a lot about his family and friends. The family lived at Monroe, Iowa at which time Skip was employed at the Pella Corporation in Pella, Iowa. In later years he was self-employed doing scrap metal recycling. Skip loved to read Western novels and he and his special friend and companion, Laura Thomas, enjoyed traveling. On Wednesday afternoon, February 18, 2009, he passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of 67 years. Skip is survived by his two sons and their families: Jim and Arlene (Van Mersbergen) Dugger and their two children, Mackenzie Leigh and Levi James of Pella, Iowa; Tim Dugger of Leighton, Iowa; Laura Thomas of Pella; a brother, Larry Dugger and his wife, Deb of What Cheer, Iowa; his sister, Dolores and her husband, Jim Leer of Keswick, Iowa; and a sister-in-law, Doris (G.Dean) Dugger of What Cheer. Skip was preceded in death by his parents, LeRoy and Juanita Dugger; a brother, G. Dean Dugger; a nephew, Rick Dugger and a niece, Rhoda Dugger.
Memorials may be designated for Hospice of Pella
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Jim Cobb,
September 15, 1920 - February 17, 2009
Gilbert, Iowa
Visitation: family present, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Grace United Methodist Church, Story City, Iowa
Funeral Service: Saturday, February 21 at 11:00 a.m. , at Grace United Methodist Church, Story City, Iowa
Graveside Service: Committal Services, at 2:00 p.m , at
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery
Mr. Cobb was born September 15, 1920 in Correctionville, Iowa, the oldest of three children of Forrest and Kate (Ahrendsen) Cobb. He moved with his parents to Lake City, Iowa in March, 1927, and graduated from high school there in 1938. He graduated from Iowa State College in 1943 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and was commissioned in the U.S. Naval Reserve following training at Columbia University, New York, in October, 1943. Lieutenant (junior grade) Cobb served in the 128th Naval Construction Battalion (Seabees) on Guadalcanal, Saipan, and Guam during World War II. His battalion withstood fierce Japanese kamikaze attacks to construct and maintain the pontoon causeways that sustained the First and Sixth Marine Divisions throughout the Battle of Okinawa. At war’s end, Lieutenant Cobb and the remainder of his battalion deployed with the III Marine Amphibious Corps to Tientsin, China where U.S forces accepted the surrender and repatriation of 630,000 Japanese troops and civilians. He was honorably discharged from active service on July 4th, 1946, and subsequently promoted to full Lieutenant in the Naval Reserve. Mr. Cobb held positions with various consulting engineering firms until 1957, then served on the executive staffs of Associated General Contractors of Iowa and the Asphalt Paving Association of Iowa until 1971. He retired from the Iowa Department of Transportation in 1986. He married Leona Vos of Pella, Iowa on July 14, 1962. They lived in Indianola and Ames before moving to Gilbert in 1973. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Roland Cobb, and sister Carole Gibson. He is survived by his wife Leona, sons James R. and Curtis A., daughter Christine E. Pfohl (Daniel), grandsons James C. Cobb and Nathan J. Pfohl, granddaughters Jessica Pfohl and Andrea Marino (Sam), and great grandchildren Mary and Jack Marino. Mr. Cobb was a 50-year member of Arcadia Lodge No. 249 and the York Rite Bodies, Ames, Iowa, and Grace United Methodist Church, Story City, Iowa.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, Iowa.
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Bob De Ruiter,
March 21, 1941 - February 14, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home in Pella
Funeral Service: Thursday, February 19, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Interment at the Graceland Cemetery at Pella.
Robert Wayne De Ruiter was born on March 21, 1941, at Pella, Iowa. He was the second of four children that were born to Nicholas and Leona Van Gorp De Ruiter. Bob attended country grade school and the Pella Christian Grade School and graduated from Pella Christian High School with the Class of 1959. During high school, he played basketball and sang in the school choir. His singing voice was very evident. On December 21, 1962, he and Lavonne Joyce De Kock were united in marriage at Denver, Colorado. Bob and Lavonne had two wonderful daughters: Brenda Lee and Anita Lynn. Bob and Lavonne continued living in Denver following their marriage where he worked for his uncle at a construction company. He later did over-the-road truck driving until he wanted to stay closer to home and they moved to Pella, Iowa in 1968. Bob then became part owner of Ryken- De Ruiter Construction and later worked for Story Construction Company of Ames, Iowa building water treatment plants. His last employment was with the City of Pella, Iowa. Bob became the street/utility maintenance superintendent in April of 1982 and demonstrated a high degree of professionalism, capability and thoroughness in guiding the city through many improvement projects that had a positive impact on the everyday lives of Pella residents and businesses. He retired in February of 1997 as as interim Public Works Director. Bob displayed strong work ethics his entire working lifetime. Following his early retirement, he continued to display his musical talents playing the guitar and he and Lavonne enjoyed spending time in Arizona. He had aspirations of traveling to Alaska and Australia. Bob enjoyed hunting (mushroom) and fishing as these skills were also evident. On Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2009, he passed away from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of 67 years, 10 months and 24 days. Bob’s family and friends were a very important part of his life. He leaves his wife of 46 years, Von; his two daughters and their husbands, 7 grandchildren and one great-grandson: Brenda and Marty Shinn of Pella, Iowa; Anita and Chuck Goetz of Woodbury, Minnesota. Bob leaves his mother, Leona De Ruiter of Pella; his two sisters: Donna (Milton) Gabrielse of Kearney, Missouri, Carol and her husband, Bill Rauhauser of Denton, Texas; his younger brother, Dwayne De Ruiter and his wife, Norma of Pella; along with the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Lois (De Kock) and Dr. James De Jong of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Twila (De Kock) and Logan Terpstra of Sully, Iowa , Darlene (De Kock) and John Meier of Hazelton, Iowa. Bob was preceded in death by his father, Nick De Ruiter; his parents-in-law, William and Gertrude (De Jong) De Kock; and a brother-in-law, Milton Gabrielse. Bob was baptized at the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella and at the time of his death was a member of New Hope Community Church. Bob will be remembered for his sense of humor and strong work ethic.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the New Hope Community Church or Hospice of Pella in Pella, Iowa
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Evelyn Joosten,
March 10, 1923 - February 14, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Wednesday with the family present from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. , at De Jong Chapel at First Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Thursday, February 19, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Interment will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Evelyn Faye Tysseling, the only daughter of Herman A. and Nelle Borgman Tysseling, was born on March 10, 1923, at the family’s country home east of Pella, Iowa. With two brothers, Arthur and Marvin, she enjoyed a good farm life, and all three attended the Wheat Grow Country School for 8 years. Evelyn graduated from Pella High School and continued her education at Central College in Pella. After teaching school for a year at Annville, Kentucky, she accepted a position as secretary to the president of Central College, which she fulfilled for ten years. During that time she married Calvin Lynn Joosten, who had been born and raised in South Dakota and had come to Central College to continue his education. Evelyn and Cal were united in marriage on June 14, 1951, in the Douwstra Chapel on the campus of Central College and a son, Burton Kent, was born to them in 1956. After a period spent as a homemaker, Evelyn accepted the position of secretary at the First Reformed Church in Pella and continued to serve there for many years. She was a lifetime member of the First Reformed Church and devoted much time and energy to a variety of volunteer services there, including Sunday School teacher of all ages, Women’s Guild president and other women’s activities, serving on various committees, etc. Her greatest joy was her many years as teacher of the adults in the Golden Hour Sunday School Class. On Saturday evening, February 14, 2009, she passed away in the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella at the age of 85 years, months and days. Evelyn is survived by her son, B. Kent Joosten, and his wife, Susanne of Houston, Texas; a very special brother, Marvin Tysseling, and his wife, Mert of Pella; two sisters-in-law: Pauline (Stephen Joosten) Vander Zyl of Pella and Shirley (Lynn) Joosten of Schenectady, New York; and some very special nieces and nephews: Arlene Dahm, Willene James, Helen Goins, Jill Golrick, Jana Jordan, Beverly De Penning, Diane Nelson, Larry Joosten and Lindsey Joosten. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Cal Joosten, on October 25, 2000; her parents: H. A. and Nellie Tysseling; her father-in-law: Egbartus (Bert) Joosten; her mother-in-law, Clara (Joosten) Buwalda; her step-father-in-law, Andrew J. Buwalda; her older brother, Arthur Tysseling and his wife, Lucile; two brothers-in-law: Stephen E. Joosten and Rev. Lynn T. Joosten; and a nephew,P.F.C. Curtis C. Joosten. Written by Evelyn Joosten
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the First Reformed Church or Hospice of Pella, Iowa
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Gerrit Slykhuis,
January 20, 1921 - February 09, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Wednesday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Wednesday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Thursday, February 12 at 10:30 a.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella with military honors
Gerrit Slykhuis was the sixth of nine children that were born to Meyer and Johanna Van Hemert Slykhuis. He was born on January 20, 1921, in Marion County near Knoxville, Iowa. Gerrit attended country grade schools in Marion and Mahaska Counties, Iowa. On 28 March 1945, he was inducted into the Armed Services and served with the Army of the United States as a guard patrolman with the 3rd Medical Depot Company in the Philippine Islands until his honorable discharge on 30 December 1946. On February 19, 1954, Gerrit was united in marriage with Wilma Faye Van Zante, an only child of Anthony W. and Wilhelmina Pippel Van Zante, at her parents home near Pella, Iowa. Gerrit and Wilma were living near New Sharon, Iowa when on November 26, 1954, at 10:35 p.m. a daughter, Willa Mae, was stillborn. Gerrit and Wilma had desires of raising their own family but God had other plans for them. Gerrit and Wilma lived in Peoria, Iowa where Gerrit worked at his repair shop as a blacksmith. Following the death of her mother, Wilhelmina Van Zante, they moved into Pella with her father, Ant. W. Van Zante, at 408 Main Street. Gerrit then began working at Ring-O-Matic in 1972 where he was employed until his retirement in 1994. His retirement years were spent tinkering in his shop in Peoria as well as doing woodworking. He also enjoyed gospel music. On Monday morning, February 9, 2009, Gerrit passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House with his wife at his bedside 19 days following his 88th birthday. Gerrit will be remembered as a kind and loving husband to his wife of nearly 55 years, Wilma Faye; a brother-in-law to Esther (Herman) Slykhuis of Pella; as well as an Uncle to one niece, Linda Pettit and 8 nephews: Clarence Slykhuis, Abe Nunnikhoven, Martin Nunnikhoven, Wilbur Nunnikhoven, Gene Nunnikhoven, Tony Nunnikhoven, Gerald Nunnikhoven and Merle Nunnikhoven. Gerrit was the last surviving member of his original family. He was preceded in death by his stillborn daughter, Willa Mae; his parents, Meyer and Johanna Slykhuis; his parents-in-law, Ant. W. and Wilhelmina Van Zante; four brothers: Martenius Slykhuis, Herman Slykhuis, Elmer Slykhuis and James Slykhuis; and four sisters: Bertha (Anthony) Nunnikhoven, Grace Slykhuis, Marie (John) Kool and Wilma Slykhuis. Gerrit was baptized and made profession of his faith at the Third Reformed Church in Pella. At the time of his death he was a faithful member of the First Reformed Church of Pella and will be remembered as a good Christian man.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the mission fund of the First Reformed Church or the American Legion Post No. 89 of Pella, Iowa
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Allyn C. Martinson,
, 1944 - February 07, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Tuesday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present ,Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Wednesday, February 11 at 11:00 a.m. , at Third Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Inurnment will be at a later date
Allyn Charles Martinson was born on July 1, 1944, in Hendricks, Minnesota. He was the son of Clayton Gayheart and Alice Lillian Quickstad Martinson. Allyn attended grade school in Toronto, South Dakota and graduated from Toronto High School with the Class of 1962. He then enrolled at South Dakota State University in Brookings, SD. On June 13, 1964, he was united in marriage with Darlene Kaye Hicks at the Leganger Lutheran Church in Toronto and they were blessed with two daughters: Lori Jean and Tia Jo. Allyn worked in a clothing store and for a grain elevator and graduated from South Dakota State with a BS degree in Economics. Following his graduation they moved to Yankton, South Dakota where he was employed at a fertilizer plant. In 1968 he became involved in a junior lender program at a bank in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. From 1970 until 1976 he was a loan officer at a bank in Brookings, South Dakota and in 1977 became president of the Northwestern Bank in Austin, Minnesota. Allyn held this position until 1982 when he became president of the First Interstate Bank in Estherville, Iowa. Then in 1990 he accepted the position of president at the Pella National Bank in Pella, Iowa. Allyn retired in August of 2000. In addition to his contributions as a bank president, Allyn impacted economic development. While in Estherville he was involved in the Economic Development Commission and the Iowa Lakes Community College. He was a founding member of the Pella Area Development Corporation and from 1991-2000 served as a board member and president. Having made several trips to Washington DC, he was instrumental in making Pella known to those in the nation’s capital. His leadership, generosity and encouragement were evident. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, golfing, good food, boating, traveling and "car stuff". On Saturday evening, February 7, 2009, he passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella, Iowa at the age of 64 years. Allyn is survived by his family: Darlene K. Martinson; Lori J. and her husband, Stuart De Nooy and their two children: Sydney and Brooke De Nooy of Pella, Tia J. Martinson of New Haven, Connecticut; Patti and Chris Johnson and their two children: Andrew and Elena Johnson of Waukee, Iowa, and Dan De Nooy and his wife, Sheri and their two children: Anna and Cole De Nooy of Leighton, Iowa. Allyn leaves his two sisters and their husbands: Carol and Rex Warland of State College, Pennsylvania, Eileen and Richard Shane of Brookings, South Dakota; and four sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Wylla (Hicks) and Claire Konold, Watertown, South Dakota, Janet (Hicks) and James Hurlbut of Raymond, South Dakota, Arlene (Hicks) and Dennis Milton of Hayti, South Dakota, Peggy (Hicks) and Wayne Knutson of Toronto, South Dakota. Allyn was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton and Alice Martinson; a sister, Lorraine Martinson who died in infancy and a brother-in-law, Eugene Hanson. Allyn was a proud Rotarian for many years. He was a deacon in the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Estherville and was presently affiliated with the Midwest Arise Ministries. Allyn’s religious convictions were expressed in his witnessing as a mentor, friend, employee, brother, husband, father and grandfather.
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Lois E. Vande Lune,
September 24, 1912 - February 04, 2009
Visitation: Sunday morning at the Van Dyk -Duven Funeral Home with the family present from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. , at the funeral home.
Funeral Service: Monday, February 9, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. , at Prairie City Christian Reformed Church, Prairie City, Iowa
Interment: Interment will be in the Waveland Cemetery at Prairie City, Iowa
Lois Elma Vroom was born on September 24, 1912, in Jasper County near Prairie City, Iowa. She was the oldest of three daughters that were born to Arthur R. and Ethel Witcomb Vroom. Lois attended the same country grade school, West Ryan No. 9, where her grandfather, father and later her sons attended. Lois graduated from the Prairie City High School in Prairie City with the Class of 1931. On February 17, 1933, she was united in marriage with Richard Gerrit Vande Lune, a son of Bert and Susie Meppelink Vande Lune, at her parent’s home. To this union two sons were born: Lowell Ray who was born on July 14, 1936 and Loren Dale who was born on August 26, 1937. Lois loved being a wife, mother and homemaker and was an excellent cook for her busy family. In her spare time she enjoyed music and playing the piano. Lois and Richard Vande Lune farmed south of Prairie City until 1965 when they retired and moved into Prairie City. They enjoyed their retirement years together there and were longtime members of the Prairie City Christian Reformed Church. Lois was active with the J.O.Y. Ladies Aid Society. On March 14, 1995, her husband, Richard, passed away. In 1998 Lois became a resident at Hilltop North in Pella, Iowa. She was a resident there until November, 2006, when she entered the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center. Lois passed away in the loving care of the Hospice of Pella Comfort House, Wednesday afternoon, February 4, 2009, at the advanced age of 96 years, 4 months and 10 days. Those left to cherish her memory are her two sons and their families: Lowell and his wife, Lois (Struik) Vande Lune of Pella, Loren and his wife, Linda (Struik) Vande Lune of Pella. Of her original family Lois leaves her brother-in-law, Wilbur Hutchison of Apache Junction, Arizona; along with several nieces and nephews. Lois was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her parents, Arthur and Ethel Vroom; her parents-in-law, Bert and Susie Vande Lune; her two sisters: Jean Hutchison and Norma Brubaker and her husband, Leo Brubaker; her nephew, Claire Hutchison; and a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Herma (Vande Lune) and Bert Schuttinga and a nephew, Bernard Schuttinga. Lois became a member of the Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa in 1998 where she was a member at the time of her death.
Memorials may be designated for Hospice of Pella or the Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa
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Gary J. Vermeer,
September 29, 1918 - February 02, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Gary J. Vermeer was born on September 29, 1918, near Pella, Iowa. He was the first of four sons that were born to Jacob (J G) and Anna Elsie Haven Vermeer and was baptized Gerrit John Vermeer, after his grandfather, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella. Gary, and his three brothers: Elmer H., John H. and Harry G., grew up on the family farm east of Pella, which is now the Pella Nursery Company. He began his formal education at the Plainview Country Grade School near their family farm home and was raised in a farming community with strong Dutch roots. Gary graduated from Pella Public High School with the Class of 1935. On February 14, 1941, he was united in marriage with Matilda Van Gorp, daughter of John M. and Minnie Blom Van Gorp, at her parent’s farm home east of Pella. Gary and Matilda started their lives together with 120 acres of land on a farm, given by his parents. On this land in 1953, they built a new, modest home which remained their home throughout their married lifetime. To this union three children were born: Stanley James, Robert Lee and Mary Ann. In 1948, Gary and his cousin, Ralph Vermeer, started in business together five years after inventing a wagon hoist, which made it easier to unload corn. The demand for this labor-saving device and Gary’s ingenuity prompted him to open Vermeer Manufacturing Company. In 1950, his brother, Harry Vermeer, joined the company and became the treasurer. From that small operation, the company has grown to an international organization that manufactures agricultural, construction, environmental and industrial equipment. Perhaps Gary’s best known manufacturing contribution is the Vermeer round hay baler, an invention that revolutionized agriculture in 1971.It was one of his many innovative ideas and industry-changing products that emerged from his common theme, “there has to be a better way”.Gary operated the company, formed the pattern of his decision making and the cornerstone of present and future actions in a way that demonstrated the importance he placed on the 4P’s of Philosophy: Principles, strong Biblical principles; People, employees that are self-motivated, learn through experience and share in the profits; Product, if there is a need for something you build it with a product that lasts; and Profit, maintaining a position of financial strength. Under Gary’s guidance, other products manufactured by the company include stump cutters, trenchers, tree spades, horizontal directional drills and many other products in its product segments: forage management, specialty excavation, environmental transformation and underground installation. His son, Stan, served as President of the company from 1982 until 1986. His other two children, Bob Vermeer and Mary Vermeer Andringa, currently serve as co-CEO’s of the company. Throughout the years, Gary and Matilda Vermeer continued to enjoy their farmland. As recently as spring of 2007, Gary took time out of his schedule to climb on the cultivator, planter or combine. Gary first obtained a pilot’s license in 1950 to save travel time visiting customers and dealers. By the late 1960’s, he was regularly flying customers, employees, friends and mere acquaintances from his church and community to a wilderness camp in Canada.While Gary enjoyed flying and was an avid fisherman and hunter, his greatest enjoyment was providing a new experience to someone for the first time. He, too, appreciated new experiences as he and his wife, Matilda, enjoyed traveling for the challenges offered rather than any luxuries enjoyed. In addition to Gary’s notable contributions to manufacturing, he was well known for his philanthropy. In 1958, the company started a foundation. Over the years, the Vermeer Charitable Foundation has made significant contributions to many projects, both locally and worldwide. From the beginning, the Foundation was established to relieve poverty, advance education, promote health and extend the influence of religion. Gary took an active role in his community and led a drive that raised money to build the Pella Community Hospital. Gary also supported many college scholarship programs and building projects at Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa, Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Central College and the Pella Christian Schools in Pella, Iowa, as well as disaster relief, aid for missions and much, much more. He took an active role in his church and made innumerable contributions to the church universal. Gary was a charter member of the Calvary Christian Reformed Church and the Faith Christian Reformed Church in Pella where he had served as an Elder. He had also served as a youth leader at the First Christian Reformed Church and Calvary Christian Reformed Church. Gary served on many area boards and was recognized with several awards including the Pella Community Service Award in 1977, and was named Iowa Inventor of the Year in 1984. He was inducted into the Iowa Business Hall of Fame in 1986, the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Achievement in 1992, and the Construction Equipment Industry Hall of Fame in 1996. Gary Vermeer, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Vermeer Corporation, an icon in local communities and the industry, passed away Monday morning, February 2, 2009, at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the age of 90 years. Gary will be remembered for his innovations, love of the outdoors, many valued commitments and dedication to his family. They are his genuine, unassuming wife, Matilda; their three children and their spouses, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. They are: Stanley J. Vermeer and his wife Alma Lee (Verdon) of Pella, Iowa; their daugther, Christina Joy Vermeer, their son, Jonathan Gary Vermeer and his wife, Nicole (McAllister), and their son, David Stanley Vermeer. Robert L. Vermeer and his wife, Lois (De Jong) of Pella, Iowa; their son, Daniel Robert Vermeer and his wife, Tricia (Vander Waal) and children, Brant, Isaac, Jack and Ella; their daughter, Heidi Lynn and her husband Chad Quist and children, Alexander, Anna; their daughter, Allison Marie and her husband Kyle Van Wyngarden. Mary A. and her husband Dale Andringa of Mitchelville, Iowa; their son, Jason Mark Andringa and his wife Carrie (Anderson)and children, Daniel, Mia; their daughter, Mindi Jean and her husband Frank Vanden Bosch and their child, Madeline. His family includes his brother, John H. Vermeer and his wife, Effie, his two sisters-in-law: Jeannette (Elmer H.) Vermeer and Bernice (Harry G.) Vermeer; and the following brother-in-law and sisters-in-law: John and Dorothy Van Gorp, Jr., Evelena (Van Gorp) Roozeboom, and Edith (Edward) Van Gorp all of Pella, Iowa. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, J G. and Anna Vermeer; his parents-in-law, John M. and Minnie Van Gorp; a daughter-in-law, Margaret (De Boer) Vermeer; a great-grandson, Jakob Daniel Vanden Bosch; two brothers: Elmer H.(Dutch) Vermeer and Harry G. Vermeer; a sister-in-law and her husband, Gertrude (Van Gorp) and Everett Meinders and two brothers-in-law: Edward Van Gorp and Arie Roozeboom. In spite of his success, Gary exemplified an unshakeable faith and lived for the glory of God.
A Company Funeral Service will be held Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. Vermeer Pavilion Arena, Pella, Iowa
A Family/Community Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 6, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. Faith Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Visitation will be Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with family present from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Pavilion Arena
Memorials may be designated for Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, Hospice of Pella Comfort House or the Pella Christian Schools in Pella, Iowa
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Betty Huyser,
February 06, 1927 - January 31, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Public visitation will be Tuesday , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Wednesday, February 4 at 11:00 a.m. , at Second Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Elizabeth Henrietta Huyser, daughter of J. Andrew and Henrietta Blom Huyser, was born on February 6, 1927, in Jasper County near Sully, Iowa. Her family, including her parents and her younger brother, John William, lived on farms in the Knoxville, Pella and Sully, Iowa areas. Betty, as she was known, felt blest to have experienced the discipline of daily chores and responsibilities. Her grade school education was received at the Pella Christian and Sully Christian Grade Schools and Chester, a one room school. She attended Sully High School for two years and graduated from Pella Christian High School with the Class of 1944. Due to the teacher shortage she was hired to teach a combination classroom of 5th and 6th grades at the Sully Christian Grade School after only summer school training. Other schools where she taught included Pella Christian Grade School, Orange City Christian in Orange City, Iowa and the Des Moines Independent School District in Des Moines, Iowa, making for a total of 26 years of teaching. During this time she earned a B.A. Degree in Education at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She became certified for Music Education at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa receiving a Master of Music Education degree. Music played a significant part in her life and she served as an organist for worship services for over 65 years. Betty was respected for the self-sacrificing care she provided for her parents and many others. After caring for her aging parents, the last ten years of employment were as an activity coordinator at Hilltop Manor. Following her retirement she enjoyed volunteering for Hospice of Pella, the Work of Our Hands, the snack bar at the Pella Regional Health Center and checking Bible lessons and writing letters of encouragement to prisoners with the Crossroad Bible Institute. Betty’s travels included the American and Canadian Rockies, Hawaii, the Northeastern United States, the Washington, D.C. area, Scandinavia and many other European countries. She made several trips to the Netherlands where she visited family and tried to “keep up her Dutch”. The longest trip in miles was to Myanmar (Burma) to carry in the first study Bibles with the Bible League. On Friday night, January 31, 2009, she passed away peacefully at her residence in the Pella Manor six days prior to her 82nd birthday. She is survived by caring cousins and many friends. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, her father J. Andrew Huyser who died in 1976, her mother Henrietta Huyser, who died in 1979 and her brother, John William Huyser, who died of polio in 1954. Betty was a faithful, active member of the Second Christian Reformed Church in Pella and sought to live her profession in Jesus her Savior.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Bible League or the Back to God Hour.
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Dorothy Miller Renaud,
July 27, 1916 - January 28, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Sunday from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Monday, February 2 at 10:30 a.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Hewitt Cemetery near Reasnor, Iowa
Dorothy Thelma Elwood was born on July 27, 1916, near Galesburg, Iowa and educated in the Monroe, Iowa school system. She was the third of eight children born to Thomas G. and Sarah Ellen Beem Elwood. Dorothy was married on May 27, 1934, to Ishmeal James Miller in Monroe and two children were born to this union. Thelma Ann on June 6, 1935 and Betty Lou on February 6, 1938. The couple resided in Galesburg and then moved a farm west of town where they resided until 1959. They then moved to a farm in Monroe and lived there until 1984 when they retired and moved to Pella, Iowa. Ishmeal passed away a few weeks short of their fiftieth anniversary on April 14, 1984. Dorothy was united in marriage with Paul Edmund Renaud, a family friend whose wife had passed away four years earlier, in Pella, Iowa on May 3, 1986, and they lived on Hazel Street and at Vriendshaap Village in Pella until his death on August 7, 2006. She continued to live there until the Spring of 2008 when she moved to the Hilltop Manor and subsequently to Long Term Care at the Pella Regional Health Center. Dorothy was called home to be with her Lord on January 28, 2009, after a very brief final illness at the age of 92 years and 6 months. Dorothy is survived by her two daughters and their husbands: Thelma and Delbert Moslander of Cottonwood Arizona and Betty and John Nunnikhoven of Chester, Vermont; and her grandchildren: Linda Davis, BJ Corn, and Robert Buckley, Tony, Kimberly and David Nunnikhoven. Dorothy leaves four stepchildren: Kathy Renaud of Ohio, Nancy (Jim) Thomson of Tennessee, Margaret and her husband, Scott Brinkmeyer of Pennsylvania, Paul A. Renaud and his wife, Linda of New Sharon, Iowa; and one sister, Ruth (Wayne) Renaud of Pella, Iowa; along with the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: James R. Renaud of Sully, Iowa, Edmund and Miriam Renaud of Iowa Falls, Iowa, Gerrit and Jane Renaud, Mark and Patricia Renaud of Pella, Iowa, Leo and Marguerite Renaud of Des Moines, Iowa, Lydia (Henry) Roossinck of Michigan, Mary and John Verratti of New York, Florence (Carrol) Renaud and Grace (John) Renaud both of Pella. There are numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren from both families, plus nephews and nieces who have adored their Grandma Renaud and their Aunt Dorothy. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Ishmeal Miller and Paul E. Renaud; one grandchild, Bunny Renaud; her parents, Thomas and Sarah Elwood; a step-son-in-law, Jim Thomson; her two brothers: Edward Elwood, who died at a young age and Gilbert Elwood; four sisters and their husbands: Margaret and John Breuklander, Martha and Harold Ginther, Loretta and Jacob Stiernemann, Lois and Robert Albee and her brother-in-law, Wayne E. Renaud. Dorothy accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her personal savior at an early age and continued in happy fellowship with the saints gathered to the Lord's name at 1812 Washington Street in Pella, Iowa. One of her lifetime pleasures which continued until the last few hours of her life was praising the Lord with hymns and sacred songs. She was an excellent homemaker, wife and mother who enjoyed sewing and gardening, and one whose baking skills were enjoyed by all.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Bible Truth Publishers or Journeys, a program of Hospice of Pella.
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Duane Dingeman,
November 13, 1934 - January 17, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Public visitation will begin Tuesday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: Family visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Wednesday, January 21 at 10:00 a.m. , at Calvary Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: t’Lam Cemetery near Pella
Daniel Duane Dingeman was the eighth of nine children that were born to Daniel and Ruth Irene Hoagland Dingeman. His parents were living near Pella, Iowa at the time he was born on November 13, 1934. Being from a large family of brothers and sisters each one acquired a nickname and his was "Ikey". Since his father's name was also Daniel, his Dad went by Dan and he went by Duane. Duane attended the Pella Public Schools except for one year in Ottumwa, Iowa, while his father was building an airport there. He graduated from Pella Public High School with the Class of 1952 after much encouragement and many excused work absences. In July of 1954 Duane enlisted in the United States Army. During high school Duane had met Goldie Jean Gritters, a daughter of Rev. Martin and Jeanette Vande Kerk Gritters. Duane and Goldie were united in marriage on December 4, 1954, while he was stationed at Ft. Leonardwood, Missouri. Soon after their marriage he was deployed to Germany and Goldie joined him there. In July of 1956 he was honorably discharged as a Cpl. and they returned to Pella, Iowa. Duane and Goldie raised their family of three children: Diane Jean, Debra Jo and Daniel Wayne in Pella, of whom he was very proud. Upon his return from the service, Duane joined Pella Construction Company, the family business started by his dad, until he began his own business, Pella Excavating, in 1975. He operated this business until 2003. He also worked in land development with his brothers. When he retired in 2003, he began farming and continued in the land development business until the present time. Duane enjoyed operating his dozer and restoring old tractors, and his special interests were hunting, fishing, mushroom hunting, and traveling with his wife. Most recently he enjoyed spoiling dogs, baking bread and cracking nuts. On Saturday evening, January 17, 2009, after a well-fought battle with pulmonary fibrosis, he passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House at the age of 74 years, 2 months and 4 days. Those who will cherish his memory are his wife of 54 years, Goldie, and their three children and their families. They are: Diane and her husband, Danny Massick of Knoxville, Iowa; Deb and her husband, Byron Bruxvoort of Oskaloosa, Iowa; Dan W. Dingeman of Pella, Iowa.Of his original family Duane leaves his four sisters: M. Jean Thomas of Winterset, Iowa, Betty L. and her husband, Tom Carlson of Evanston, Illinois, Uella M. and her husband, R. Bill Peters of Pella and Priscilla I. Steenhoek of Otley, Iowa; a sister-in-law, Judi (Paul E.) Dingeman of Pella; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Alberdeen (Gritters) Stursma, Frank and Revena Gritters, Edgar and Regina Gritters, Arnie and Nancy Gritters all of Pella. Duane was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Ruth Dingeman; his parents-in-law, Martin and Jeanette Gritters; his four brothers and their wives: Marvin W. and Betty (Beaman) Dingeman, Hershel W. and A. Gene (Leon) Dingeman, James H. and Nancy (Van Maanen) Dingeman, Paul E. Dingeman; his brothers-in-law, Donald Thomas and Duane Steenhoek; and a brother-in-law, Donald Stursma; and four nephews: Kurtis Peters, Robert Danny Peters, David Dingeman and Gordon Dingeman. Duane was a member of the Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella and the Van Veen- Van Hemert American Legion Post No. 89 of Pella. He and Goldie enjoyed traveling and were a part of several coffee groups. Duane was a mentor to his family and substance abusers. He was very supportive of his family who will always remember his generous spirit.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Hospice of Pella or the Luke Society for Christian International Medical Missions.
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Marion De Vries,
December 20, 1909 - January 16, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Public visitation will be Sunday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: Family visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service on Monday , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Monday, January 19 at 1:30 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Marion De Vries was born on December 20, 1909, west of Pella, Iowa. He was the third of four children that were born to Edward and Sarah Van Wyngarden De Vries. Marion received his grade school education at the West Silver Grove Country Grade School near Pella and attended Pella Public High School. As a young lad he continued to live with his parents on their farm where he assumed an active role in farming following the illness of his father. On August 23, 1933, Marion and Leona Florence Van Ginkel were united in marriage at Iowa Falls, Iowa. They kept their marriage a secret for one year and lived separately with their respective parents. Eventually they shared their announcement and continued to farm west of Pella. In December of 1935 they moved into Pella and Marion and Leona began working at the Pella Produce Company. Leona's health then began to fail due to a chronic lung affliction. For several years Marion drove truck hauling eggs to Chicago, Illinois, making as many as five trips a week. Later he made butter at the creamery and had a local egg route until becoming an employee at the Rolscreen Company in Pella. Marion was a loyal employee at the Rolscreen Company until his retirement at the age of 63 years. During this time Marion and Leona moved into the home they had built at 413 Union Street in 1958. Marion was very proud of the home he had designed. On December 22, 1979, Leona passed away at the age of 68 years. On March 19, 1982, he was united in marriage with Gladys Antoinette Van Zante Van Dyk, a retired surgical nurse supervisor, at his home in Pella. Marion and Gladys made their residence there, their entire married life. Marion and Gladys enjoyed traveling together and during their married life made as many as 24 trips together. Then Gladys' health began to decline. With the assistance of Marion she was able to remain in their home until becoming a resident at the Griffin Nursing Center in January of 1999.She passed away on January 2, 2000, at the age of 89 years. Both of Marion's marriages were characterized by his loyalty and faithfulness in caring for his wife. Marion continued to enjoy the later years of his life frequenting, on a very regular basis, eating establishments in Pella and the local area. Even at his advanced age he was still able and considered it a privilege to be able to drive his own car. Then in September of 2008 signs of his age began to reflect it. He was then cared for in facilities and on Friday morning, January 16, 2009, passed away at the Kanavagh House in Des Moines, Iowa. Marion had just celebrated his 99th birthday on December 20, 2008. Marion is survived by his younger sister, Evelyn (Ralph) Moes, presently of Pleasant Hill, Iowa; a brother-in-law, Lloyd Van Zante and his wife, Nettie of Pella; four nieces and one nephew and their spouses: Vera (De Vries) and Lester Bach, Robert and Nancy De Vries, Karen (De Vries) and Warren Whitehead all of the State of Washington, Eileen (Moes)and R. Lee Cron of Altoona, Iowa and Greta (Moes) and Dennis Schnathorst of Newton, Iowa. Marion was preceded in death by his wives, Leona F. De Vries and Gladys A. De Vries; his parents, Edward and Sarah De Vries; his parents-in-law, Ed and Julia Van Iperen Van Ginkel; his oldest brother, Louis De Vries and his wife, Selia (Van Den Berg); his older sister, Margaret and her husband, Abraham P. Bogaards; his brother-in-law, Ralph Moes; three sisters-in-law: Clara (Van Zante) Thorson, Ethel (Van Zante) Gosselink and Freda (Van Zante) Hoeksema; and a niece, Sheila (Moes) Kearns. Marion had enjoyed bowling and was a faithful member of the First Reformed Church in Pella his entire lifetime.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the First Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa
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Beulah Netten Dykstra,
September 17, 1923 - January 07, 2009
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present, Sunday afternoon from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Monday, January 12 at 10:30 a.m. , at Chapel of the Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery
Beulah Verda Hoksbergen was the third of four children born to Louis and Mary Hackert Hoksbergen. She was born on September 17, 1923 on a farm south of Pella, Iowa. Beulah attended the Pleasant Grove Country Grade School and graduated from eighth grade on August 4, 1937. Beulah met Albert Dykstra at the town square in Pella and on August 24, 1943, they were united in marriage at the Third Reformed Church in Pella. To this union four children were born, Ronald, Judy, and twins, Arlene and Charlene who died at birth in 1948. In the early years of their marriage Beulah was a homemaker, and was known throughout her life as very hard working. She worked at many places in her lifetime including: the Otley and Pella Public Schools where she was employed as a cook and janitor; A&W Restaurant; Hilltop Manor and Pella Corporation from 1974 to 1987. Albert suffered a heart attack and died on December 5, 1968. On February 12, 1971 she was united in marriage with Harry Netten. They were married nearly twenty years when he died on January 9, 1990. As her health declined she became a resident of the Long Term Care Unit of the Pella Regional Health Center. Beulah was very independent and this transition to a new home was difficult for her until she embraced her life change and became very happy. On January 7, 2009 she passed away there attaining the age of 85 years, 3 months and 21 days. Those left to cherish her memory are her two children and their families: Ronald and Joy Dykstra of Bussey, Iowa; Judy and John Klein of Noblesville, Indiana. Beulah was the last surviving member of her original family. Of her husband Alberts family she leaves her brother-in-law, Henry Dykstra of Monroe, Iowa. Beulah was preceded in death by her twin daughters, Arlene and Charlene, her husbands, Albert Dykstra and Harry Netten, her parents, sisters, Leona Hoksbergen and Gladys Witzenburg, and her brother, Dale Hoksbergen. Beulah had many interests, particularly sprint car racing, and attending races in Knoxville, Iowa. She especially enjoyed the Knoxville Nationals where she would sit with the same group of people annually, some would travel as far away as Canada. Her other interest was professional wrestling, one she was also proud to point out with her posters in her room. Beulah was a member of the First Baptist Church in Pella. She loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren and looked forward to their visits.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials for the Beulah Netten Dykstra Memorial Fund.
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Stan Pothoven,
April 19, 1939 - December 30, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Friday afternoon and continue Friday evening , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: 10:00 a.m. January 03, 2009 at Trinity Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Kenneth Stanley Pothoven was born on April 19, 1939, the son of Otto and Effie Stursma Pothoven. He was born on the family farm near Peoria, Iowa where he was raised and lived his entire life. Stan, as he was known, graduated from the Peoria Christian Grade School in Peoria and then Pella Christian High School in Pella, Iowa with the Class of 1957. He attended Central College in Pella for one year and then enlisted in the Army reserves. Stan served for six months and was then discharged to return to the family farm following the death of his father. On July 20, 1968, he was united in marriage with Marcia Ellen Vogelaar, a daughter of Elmer and Margaret Hiemstra Vogelaar, at Otley Reformed Church in Otley, Iowa. To this union two sons were born: Christopher Mark and Ryan Leigh. Stan loved his family very much and was especially proud of his sons, Chris and Ryan, and eventually his daughter-in-law, Amy. He loved farming and especially feeding cattle on the family farm, which is now a century farm. He also worked at the feed mill in Peoria, Iowa with different owners until the mill closed, and in recent years had worked part-time for Cargill near Eddyville, Iowa. Stan acquired an appreciation for his many dogs over the years. He also shared a love of sprint car racing with his wife, Marcia, and was supportive of her appreciation for horses. He was always ready and willing to help whenever and wherever it was needed. On Tuesday morning, December 30, 2008, Stan passed away unexpectedly on arrival at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella at the age of 69 years, 8 months and 11 days. Those who will cherish his memory include his wife, Marcia, and their two sons: Chris Pothoven of Washington, D. C., and Ryan Pothoven and his wife, Amy (Gosselink) of San Diego, California. They brought him much joy and he loved to visit them on either coast. Stan's family includes two sisters and their husbands: Vera and Marion Franje of New Sharon, Iowa, and Gladys and John De Rooi of Oskaloosa, Iowa; a sister-in-law, Lenora (Vogelaar) Thierry of Arlington,Virginia; along with several nephews and nieces. Stan was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Effie Pothoven; his parents-in-law, Elmer and Margaret Vogelaar; two sisters: Gladys Ann Pothoven who died at the age of 11 years and Cathryn (Pothoven) and her husband, Harry Van Wyk; and a brother-in-law, Edwin Thierry. Stan made professon of his faith at the Peoria Christian Reformed Church in Peoria and at the time of his death was a member of the Trinity Reformed Church in Pella, where in the past he had served as a Deacon. Stan always looked to the Lord in his difficult times in life but his faith never wavered. He was a very loving husband, father, and brother, as well as a good friend and neighbor.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Samaritan’s Purse or the building fund of the Trinity Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa
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Donald "Boomer" Rozenboom,
November 30, 1936 - December 24, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Tuesday, December 30 at 1:30 p.m. , at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Donald Dean Rozenboom was born on November 30, 1936, near Sully, Iowa. He was born to Gybertus and Carrie Stouwie Rozenboom. Don graduated from the Sully Christian Grade School in Sully and attended Pella Christian High School in Pella, Iowa. He enlisted in the Armed Forces of the United States in December of 1959 and served in the U.S. Army until September of 1960. Don was married to Mary Lou Van Wyngarden and to this union two daughters were born: Barb and Jan. Don was employed in Prairie City, Iowa for several years. He then became a charter bus driver. On June 29, 1984, he was united in marriage with Darlene (Fuller) Van Rees. “Boomer’s” last gainful employment was with the Pella Community Schools in Pella. “Boomer” worked as a custodian at Pella Community High School and Webster Grade School and retired as a school bus driver in 1999. His retirement was spent enjoying camping and fishing. On Wednesday morning, December 24, 2008, he passed away unexpectedly on arrival at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella, 24 days following his 72nd birthday. Surviving are his wife, Darlene; his two daughters: Barb Rozenboom of Altoona, Iowa and Jan (Dean) Van Ryswyk of Monroe, Iowa; and five step-children: Rita Moneysmith of Pella, Mark Van Rees of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Judy (Michael) Clark of Pella, Carol (Louie) Floden of Pella and Christina (Leon) Groenenboom of Port Orange, Florida. Don leaves two grandchildren, nine step-grandchildren, eleven step-great-grandchildren and one step-great-great-grandchild. Of his original family he leaves the following sisters and brother and their spouses: Jeanetta (Gerald) Dykstra of Prairie City, Iowa, Robert and Alvada Rozenboom of Bussey, Iowa, Anna Rae and Lloyd Van Hemert of Oskaloosa, Iowa, and a brother-in-law, Donald (Geraldine) Samson of Newton, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Carrie Rozenboom; an infant sister, Beverly Jean Rozenboom, his sister, Geraldine Samson, two brothers, Jerry Rozenboom and his wife, Ruby, and Virgil Rozenboom, and a brother-in-law, Gerald Dykstra. Don was a member of the First Baptist Church in Pella, Iowa.
Visitation will begin Monday morning at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home where the family will be present Monday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for Hospice of Pella or the First Baptist Church
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FRIEDA M. TEN HAGEN ,
April 01, 1919 - December 23, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Funeral Service: Saturday, December 27 at 11:00 a.m. , at First Baptist Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella, Iowa
Frieda Mae Gezel was the fifth of seven children born to George and Edith L. Porter Gezel. She was born on April 1, 1919 and grew up in Pella, Iowa where she attended the Pella Public Schools and Pella High School. Frieda met Virgil H. Ten Hagen on a blind date and on March 3, 1937, they were united in marriage at Pella. To this union two daughters were born, Mary Lou and Georgia Ann. In the early years of their marriage Frieda was a homemaker and also worked at the Pella Overall Factory and the Pella Coffee Shop. Later she followed her dreams of becoming self-employed owning two successful businesses, a drapery/seamstress business and also a cake decorating business. Many of the homes in Pella and the surrounding area are adorned with her beautiful drapes. She also made many of the Dutch costumes worn at the Pella Tulip Time Festival. She was also known for making countless numbers of birthday and wedding cakes. Frieda also shared her talents by teaching an adult education class of Cake Decorating. She was admired for her craft works of all kinds, many of which were seen at the Pella Garden Club Open Houses at Christmas time. During all this time Virgil was a skilled brick mason for over 40 years and had built many beautiful homes and churches. Frieda and Virgil were privileged to celebrate 59 years of married life together before he passed away on July 24, 1996, at the age of 85 years. Frieda remained an active member of the First Baptist Church in Pella. She was also actively involved in several organizations; the Order of the Eastern Star for over 50 years, in which she held many of the offices including Worthy Matron; the Pella Historical Society; and was a charter member of the Pella Garden Club where she earned the title of Master Flower & Horticulture Show Judge. Frieda loved her work with the Garden Club and traveled to many towns in Iowa to judge flower shows. She also helped with the Scholte Church Flower Show and the Van Willigan Home Open House. Frieda loved to garden, arrange flowers, fish and travel. On Tuesday evening, December 23, 2008, she passed away at Parkridge Nursing and Rehab Center in Pleasant Hill, Iowa, where she had resided for the past two years after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. She attained the age of 89 years, 8 months and 22 days. Frieda is survived by her two daughters and their husbands: Mary Lou and Toby Thompson of Des Moines, Iowa, Georgia Ann and Dwight Roorda of Pleasant Hill, Iowa; 5 grandsons: Merle Thompson of Texas, Wesley Thompson and his wife, Alissa and Bryce Thompson of Des Moines, Iowa, Todd Roorda and his wife, Diane of Maple Grove, Minnesota and Tyler Roorda and his wife, Shawn of Runnells, Iowa; 17 great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. Of her original family Frieda leaves her sister, Louise Sabin of Pella, Iowa. Frieda was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil; her parents, George and Edith Gezel; her parents-in-law, A.J. Cornelius (John) and Dora Weyerse Ten Hagen; three sisters: Mildred Gezel, Bernice Gezel, Emeline (Gezel) Vos; and two brothers: George Gezel and Ivan Gezel. Frieda will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her and will be remembered for all her many talents and hard work.
Visitation will begin Friday afternoon at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home in Pella. Visitation with the family present will be from 10:00 a.m. until service time on Saturday at First Baptist Church
For those desiring, memorials may be given for Iowa Hospice, First Baptist Church in Pella or Cross Point United Methodist Church in Bondurant, Iowa.
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NELSON H. ARKEMA,
December 21, 1931 - December 23, 2008
Sully, Iowa
Funeral Service: Monday, December 29 at 10:30 a.m. , at Sully Christian Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa
Interment: Sully Cemetery at Sully, Iowa
Nelson Harold Arkema was born on December 21, 1931, at Sully, Iowa. He was the 9th of twelve children that were born to Oney and Katie Bruxvoort Arkema. Nelson attended the Sully Christian Grade School in Sully. At the age of 22 years he was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He served honorably for two years and was discharged on January 5, 1955. On March 10, 1955, he was united in marriage with Dorothy Van Soelen, a daughter of Cornelius Christian and Dirkije Rolffs Van Soelen, at the Christian Reformed Church in Sully. To this union six children were born: Patricia Elaine, Bryce Nelson, Karen Sue, Glen Alan, Alvin Eugene and Paul Douglas. Nelson and Dorothy lived near Sully following their marriage until moving into town in 1979. They continued to live in Sully the remainder of their 35 years of marriage. Nelson provided for the needs of their family by working in the feed department at the Sully Cooperative Exchange in Sully while Dorothy faithfully cared for the family. At the age of just 59 years Dorothy passed away on May 2, 1990. Nelson, a longtime employee of the Sully Cooperative Exchange, retired from there in 1996. Retirement was a not word in Nelson's vocabulary. He began a fulfilling time working with his children. The last several years he spent several months in Michigan working with his sons, Alvin and Paul and their sons, at the Country Dairy. He thoroughly enjoyed gardening, yardwork and all of God's creation. Nelson was returning from Michigan on Tuesday, December 23, 2008, when he was called to his Eternal home while traveling near Bettendorf, Iowa. He attained the age of 77 years and 2 days. Those who will cherish his memory are his six children and their spouses and 17 grandchildren. They and their families are: Patricia Arkema-Bauer of Largo, Florida Kristine (Bauer) James, Tyler Bauer Bryce and Donna (Balt) Arkema of Pella, Iowa Amanda, Larissa, Brittany & Nick Arkema Karen and Richard De Bruin of Oskaloosa, Iowa Aaron, Marne' and Lynelle De Bruin Glen and Karen (Schroeder) Arkema of Britt, Iowa Megan, Jenna Arkema Alvin and Joan (Anderson) Arkema of New Era, Michigan Kate, Kassidy and Andrew Arkema Paul and Betsy (Van Gunst) Arkema of New Era, Michigan Riley, Sawyer and Tressa Arkema Of his original family Nelson leaves his five sisters and four brothers and their spouses. They are: Marjorie (Freemon) Van Gorp of Leighton, Iowa; Bernard and Cornelia Arkema of Sully;  Betty and Rev. Earl Dykema of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; June and William Rozendaal, Jr. of Pella, Iowa; Rev. Alan Arkema of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Hermina (Henry) Rolffs of Sully;  Grace and Harris Van Kooten of Pella; Lewis and Jean Arkema of Sioux Center, Iowa; Ed and Leona Arkema of Cedar Rapids. Of his wife Dorothy's family, Nelson leaves the following siblings: Henrietta (Peter) Van Soelen of Denver, Colorado; Cornelia and Bernard Arkema of Sully; Ralph and Bernice Van Soelen of Laurel, Iowa; Christine and John Hoebeke of Kalalmazoo, Michigan; Marie (Bill) Brandhof of Mitchellville, Iowa; Millie (Clarence) Van Soelen of Sully;  Joanne and Marvin Sjaardema of Denver, Colorado; Donald and Patty Van Soelen of Council Bluffs, Iowa.   Nelson was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy; his parents, Oney and Katie Arkema; his parents-in-law, C.C. and Dirkije Van Soelen; his step-mother-in-law, Bertha (Van Soelen) Kramer;  two brothers and their wives: John Arkema and his wife, Iva (Vande Krol)  Harthoorn; Dormand Arkema and his wife, Beulah (Newendorp); and the following brothers-in-law: Freemon Van Gorp, Henry Rolffs, Henry Van Soelen, Peter Van Soelen, Bill Brandhof and Clarence Van Soelen. Nelson was a lifelong, faithful member of the Sully Christian Reformed Church in Sully where he had served as an Elder and a Deacon and sang in the church choir. At the present time he was attending the New Era Reformed Church in New Era, Michigan where he enjoyed participating in many church activities and especially being a part of a close knit small group Bible study. He was a former member of the Sully Christian Grade School Board where he had served as the Secretary. Nelson touched many lives in many ways.
Visitation will be Sunday morning at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home. Visitation with the family present will be Sunday from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. at Sully Christian Reformed Church.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Sully Christian Grade School or the Pella Christian High School
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Barbara Ray,
December 31, 1938 - December 13, 2008
Tracy, Iowa
Visitation: Family visitation will be Monday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. December 15, 2008 at Van Dyk - Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. December 16, 2008 at Van Dyk -Duven Funeral Home
Interment: Interment will be made in the Bellefountaine Cemetery at Tracy, Iowa
Barbara Carolyn Vande Kieft was born on December 31, 1938, at St. Albans, West Virginia. She was the fifth of six children that were born to John J. and Ruth Jane Fridlington Vande Kieft. Barbara began her formal education in West Virginia and in 1947 the family moved to Tracy, Iowa. She continued her education in Tracy where she graduated from Tracy High School. As a young girl Barbara began working as a telephone operator and then was employed at Equitable Insurance Company in Des Moines, Iowa. She later worked at the Rolscreen Company in Pella, Iowa which enabled her to provide for the needs of her children: Timothy Lee Vande Kieft, Marcia Dawn Ray and Donnie Romero Ray, Jr. Barbara was a devoted mother who in later years enjoyed baby-sitting her grandchildren. She was always willing and ready to take care of people. While being a mother and grandmother she also found time to be a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts and a team mother for the Little League Baseball. In later years she was active with the Bellefountaine Cemetery Aid and enjoyed traveling, especially with her friend, Sandra Allgood and her sister, Dorothy Vande Kieft. Barbara enjoyed good health and passed away unexpectedly Saturday morning, December 13, 2008, on arrival at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella, Iowa. Those who will cherish her memory are her three children: Tim L. Vande Kieft and his wife, Anna Nelson of Ames, Iowa, Marcia D. and her husband, Dennis Boyd of Tracy, Iowa, Donnie R. Ray, Jr. of Knoxville, Iowa; four grandkids: Mike Boyd, Steph Boyd, Kate Vande Kieft and LuLu Vande Kieft; and one great-granddaughter, Kadyn Boyd. Barbara had just completed her Christmas shopping for her grandchildren. Of her original family she leaves the following sisters and brother: Margaret Wilson of Newton, Iowa, Mary Jemison of Oskaloosa, Iowa, and Dorothy Vande Kieft of Pella, Iowa, Richard Vande Kieft and his wife, Judy of Cedar Falls, Iowa; and several nieces and nephews. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ruth Vande Kieft; her maternal grandparents, Fred and Elizabeth Fridlington; her paternal grandparents, John and Maggie Vande Kieft; her sister, Helen and her husband, Carroll Deaton; a nephew, Brian Smith and a grand-nephew, Matthew Smith, a son of Brian Smith. Barbara would have celebrated her 70th birthday in just 18 days. For those desiring, memorials may be given for Clay Township Fire and Rescue
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Sangeam Chuon,
May 03, 1957 - December 12, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Sunday afternoon from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday, December 15 at 1:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery
Sangeam Chuon, 51, of Pella, Iowa formerly of Cambodia, passed away Thursday evening at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House. She is survived by her husband, Chem Chith of Pella, their son, Toney Chem of New York City, two sisters: Puch Chuon and Tream Chuon both of Pella and two brothers: Yok Choun of Keota and Thuch Chuon of Pella, Iowa. Sangeam Chuon is the second youngest from a family of five that were born to Chuon Ham and Chheurn Yam. She was born in Pailin, Cambodia on May 3, 1957. Her past in Cambodia with her loving family is a place where no one would like to visit again, but the tragic events involving the Khmer Rouge made her the woman she is now. She was loving, strong, and illuminated the room with her smile and laughter. After her and her family escaped from Cambodia to Thailand, she met her devoted husband, Chem Chith, where they married and stayed in Thailand for a couple of years until they moved to the United States in 1979. Sangeam and her husband were the very first couple in the family to receive such an honor to move to the U.S. and soon after, she helped the rest of her family move where they all experienced an unforgettable reunion. After getting herself settled in the U.S. with her family, Sangeam lived in Grinnell, Pella, then moved to Oskaloosa. In 1986, she had a son, Toney Chem, and moved to Mississippi and Louisiana. Missing her big family, she moved back to Iowa where she permanently resided in Pella. She spent most of her time working at odd jobs and taking care of her only son. She enjoyed gardening, knitting and sewing, cooking, playing with children, and enjoyed the company of others at her home. Sangeam is truly a fighter. She stared at death in 1992 and survived an accidental overdose where she slipped into a coma and doctors believed she wouldn’t have made it. But, a miraculous blood transfusion revived her back into the world. In addition, she also battled diabetes and in February 2003, she had to start dialysis where she became weak but never gave up hope. She made new and loving friends there and shared numerous stories to them about her determined and caring son. On December 7, 2008, she experienced a brain hemorrhage and passed peacefully at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House on the evening of December 11, 2008. Some of the many who will remember her grand and loving spirit are her husband, Chem Chith; their son, Toney Chem, her sisters Puch Chuon and Tream Chuon and her husband, Sarin Phoung, her older brother, Yok Choun and his wife Sarin Tuy, and her youngest of all brother, Thuch Chuon. Sangeam Chuon was infamous with nick-naming her many nieces and nephews and they will all cherish her kind heart.
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Hazel Wanders,
April 08, 1916 - December 03, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family presernt, Friday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Saturday, December 6 at 11:00 a.m. , at First Christian Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella, Iowa
Hazel Ann Van Hemert was born on April 8, 1916, in Mahaska County near Leighton, Iowa. She was one of three daughters that were born to Mars and Eva Bieshaar Van Hemert. Hazel attended country grade school and graduated from Pella Public High School in Pella, Iowa with the Class of 1933. Following her graduation she worked at the Rolscreen Company in Pella making blinds. On June 14, 1938, she was united in marriage with Albert Allen Wanders, a son of Albert and Bertha Van Donselaar Wanders, Sr., at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. To this union three daughters were born: Diane Joyce, Marsha Rae and Cynthia Sue. Al and Hazel made their home on a farm 3 miles southeast of Pella where they lived all their married lifetime. Al was the owner and operator of Wanders Radio & TV and Hazel assisted him in the operation of the business. Al passed away on September 1, 1985, at the age of 76 years. Following his death Hazel continued living on the farm place where she enjoyed the outdoors, raising flowers, and in particular mowing the large lawn. She was a very compassionate person who never wanted to be a bother to anyone, always concerned that other people were fed, and very servant minded. She was always willing and ready to take care of other people. Hazel was able to remain in her home until July of 2007 when she became a resident at Jefferson Place in Pella, Iowa. Hazel passed away early Wednesday morning, December 3, 2008, at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella at the advanced age of 92 years, 7 months and 24 days. She is survived by two daughters and their husbands, 11 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. They and their families are:(Diane J. Plate); Marsha R. and Charles Veldhuizen of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Cynthia S. and Robert Newendorp of Pella, Iowa. Hazel was the last surviving member of her original family and leaves one sister-in-law, Marie (Wanders) Nollen of Pella. She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Wanders, her daughter, Diane J. Plate, who passed away in 1999 at the age of just 57 years; a grandson, Eric Veldhuizen who died in infancy in 1967; her parents, Mars and Eva Van Hemert; her parents-in-law, Albert and Bertha Wanders, Sr.; a sister who died in infancy; her sister, Irma and her husband, Leonard Sents; a brother-in-law, Lewis Wanders; two sisters-in-law: Grace (Wanders) and her husband, Gerrit Vande Kieft, Katharine (Wanders) and her husband, M.S. Standage; and a brother-in-law, Elmer Nollen. At the time of her death, Hazel was a faithful member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa.
For those desiring memorials may be given for the First Christian Reformed Church of Pella.
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Larry Schneider,
December 07, 1966 - November 27, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m. December 03, 2008 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Pella, Iowa
Larry Schneider, 41, of Pella, IA and formerly of Rochester, Minnesota died at his home Thursday, November 27, 2008. Lawrence Alan Schneider was born December 7, 1966, in Sioux Falls, SD the son of Conrad and Bernice (Boldt) Schneider. He grew up in Rochester and graduated from John Marshall High School in 1985, then graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Following graduation he excelled in all of his professional endeavors and had most recently been employed as a Sr. Project Engineer at Pella Window Corporation since 2001. Larry married his high school sweetheart and beautiful bride, Jenifer Joy Tlougan, on April 16, 1988 in Rochester. When not spending time with his cherished family, Larry enjoyed scuba diving, hunting and running. Some of his fondest memories include time spent together with family scuba diving in the Cayman Islands. Larry was especially at peace when the waves of the ocean were nearby, as reflected by one of his favorite quotes, “For He hath founded it upon the Seas.” On October 19, 2008 Larry achieved a significant personal accomplishment by running the Des Moines Marathon. His inspiration for self-improvement also led him to become a self-taught guitar player. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. Survivors include his loving and devoted wife, Jenifer (Tlougan) Schneider, daughter, Megan Schneider, a freshman at Iowa State University studying Interior Design, and sons Luke (11) and Daniel Schneider (10) of Pella; parents Conrad and Bernice Schneider of Palisade, MN; brother, Jim Schneider and wife, Melanie of Clear Lake; sister, Carla Groebner and husband Jim of Inver Grove Heights, MN; parents-in-law, Leonard and Janice Tlougan of Rochester; sister-in-laws Jean Pool and husband, Tom of Rochester and Jayne Landua and husband Royce of Cypress, TX; and many loving nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Tuesday from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with a prayer service at 8:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested for a Lawrence A. Schneider Memorial Fund
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Jeffrey D. Schakel,
, 1949 - November 21, 2008
Columbia, MO
Graveside Service: 10:30 a.m. December 05, 2008 at Oakwood Cemetery, Pella, Iowa
Jeffrey Dee Schakel, 59, passed away November 21, 2008 in Columbia, Missouri. Jeffrey is survived by four children: Jeffrey D. Schakel of Des Moines, IA, Jeffrey D. Schakel of Knoxville, IA, Mollie K. Schakel of North English, IA, Summer D. Schakel of Knoxville, IA; his mother, Arlene (Dexter) Schakel of Pella, IA; two sisters: Linda (Arvin) Angove, Wendy Schakel and two brothers: Chris Schakel and Steve Schakel.
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Valentine Mathes,
September 11, 1906 - November 18, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Friday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: Family visitation will be from noon until service time on Saturday , at First Reformed Church in Pella
Funeral Service: Saturday, November 22 at 1:30 p.m. , at First Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Graceland Cemetery at Pella, Iowa
Valentine Mathes was born on September 11, 1906, four miles North of Pella, Iowa. He was the oldest of ten children that were born to John N. and Jeannette Vos Mathes. Valentine received his formal education at the European No. 3 Country Grade School. On March 16, 1944, he was united in marriage with Jennie Caroline Roose. They were married in the home of her parents, William J. and Gertie Hollander Roose, southwest of Leighton, Iowa. To this union two children were born: Gweneth Jean and John Wilmer. Valentine and Jennie began their married life together on a farm near Otley, Iowa. They then moved east of Pella and during most of their working years lived west of Pella and in the Otley area. Valentine farmed all these years and in 1964 they retired from farming and moved into Pella. He had been a 4-H leader for many years. Valentine then worked as a painter and as a custodian for Central College in Pella for 18 years. He was also a substitute janitor at First Reformed Church in Pella for 19 years. Valentine retired from his work employment in 1985 but remained active with the Red Rock Threshers on threshing day. He had been a member of the Red Rock Threshers Club since 1977 and enjoyed collecting toy tractors. He also enjoyed spending time at the Community Center doing men’s crafts. Valentine was a faithful, lifelong member of the First Reformed Church of Pella where he taught Sunday School, was active with the Mens Brotherhood and had been a member of the Dutch Choir. As he and Jennie advanced in age they moved from their home, 803 West 3rd Street, into Fair Haven in 1993. It was there that she passed away March 28, 1995 at the age of 91 years. Valentine continued to reside at Fair Haven until becoming a resident at the Pella Regional Health Center in November of 2007. Valentine was cared for in the Long Term Care Unit there the remaining days of his 102 years, 2 months and 7 days of his life. Those who will remember his long life are his two children and their spouses, 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. They are: Gweneth and John L. Krueger and their two children: Lawrence and Robert Krueger of Plymouth, Wisconsin; John W. and JoAnn (Kimzey) Mathes of Sycamore, Illinois and four children: Tyler Mathes of Sycamore; Rachel and Bill Hostetter and their two children: Brandon and Garrett of Colfax, Iowa; Justin and Tricia Mathes of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Sarah and Kurt Offringa of Grandville, Michigan. Of his original family of ten siblings Valentine leaves five sisters: Sarah Mathes, Esther (Herman) Slykhuis, Mable (Edward) De Vries, Evelyn (Arie) Beyer, Edith and her husband, Irvin Huyser all of Pella; and two brothers: Ervin Mathes and Harold Mathes both of Pella. Of his wife’s family, Valentine leaves her sister, Gertrude (Henry) Wassink and her sister-in-law, Evadena (Wilbur E.) Roose of Pella. Valentine was preceded in death by his wife, Jennie; a grandson, Baby Krueger, who died in infancy; his parents, John N. and Jeannette Mathes; his parents-in-law, William J. and Gertie Roose; his sister, Agnes Mathes; his brother, William Mathes; three brothers-in-law: Herman Slykhuis, Arie Beyer, and Edward De Vries; his sisters-in-law: Beulah (William) Mathes, Johanna (Ervin) Mathes and Pauline (Harold) Mathes; and three brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law: Garret W. and Bess Roose, Wilbur E. Roose and Henry Wassink. Valentine was attuned to researching the Mathes genealogy and was a lifelong student of the Scriptures.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Words of Hope, a Reformed Church radio ministry broadcast or the Covenant House, a home for runaway children.
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Avert Vannette,
February 17, 1931 - November 17, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Visitation will be Thursday with the family from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Van Dyk - Duven Funeral Home November 20, 2008 at
Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m. November 21, 2008 at Covenant Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery
Avert Walter Vannette was born on February 17, 1931, to Avert and Clara (Kramer) Vannette in New Era, Michigan. He was the sixth of their eight children. Avert lived in New Era until 1946, when his family moved to Holland, Michigan. Avert graduated from Holland Christian High School with the Class of 1950. He enlisted in the U. S. Air Force and served in the Strategic Air Command as an Aircraft Engine Mechanic for four years. On June 30, 1955, he married Suzanne Elaine Haverkamp in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In September of 1956, Avert enrolled in Calvin College at Grand Rapids. For three years he took engineering courses, and then changed to Secondary Education. Avert graduated from Calvin College in 1960 with a degree in Secondary Education with majors in Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics. Their daughter, Susan Kay, was born in February of Avert’s senior year. After one year of teaching in the States, Avert joined the Christian Reformed World Missions. Avert, Suzanne and their seventeen month old daughter left for Nigeria where Avert taught at Hillcrest School for missionaries’ children, in Jos, for one year, and then at Bristow Secondary School, in Gboko, for nine years. He taught Chemistry and Physics to Nigerian Students. While in Nigeria, their son, Avert Glen, was born in October of 1965. In 1967, during their second furlough, Avert obtained his Masters Degree from Western Michigan University at Kalamazoo, Michigan. Their third child, Mark William, was born in November of 1967. The family returned to the United States in 1971, settling in Holland, Michigan. Avert taught Chemistry and Physics at Calvin Christian High School in Grandville, Michigan from 1972 – 1981. In July of 1981, Avert, Suzanne and their two sons moved to Pella, Iowa. Avert spent the next sixteen years doing engineering work, retiring in 1997. Avert spent his retirement years helping with family projects and traveling to visit the children and grandchildren. Avert was called to his eternal home at the age of 77 years on Monday morning, November 17,2008, after having fought a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 53 years, Suzanne Vannette, his three children and their spouses, and 12 grandchildren. Susan and David Hondred of Altoona, Iowa; A. Glen and Brenda (Branderhorst) Vannette of Washington, Illinois and Mark and Lynn (Veldhuizen) Vannette of Chennai, India. The surviving members of his original family are three sisters: Lowaine Postema, Elaine Meyers and Jane Knoll, and three sisters-in-law: Wilma (Charles) Vannette, LaVina (Calvin Vannette) De Jonge, and Patricia (Paul) Vannette. Of his wife’s family, he leaves her brother and his wife, Bill and Marybeth Haverkamp. Avert was preceded in death by his parents: Avert and Clara Vannette, a sister, Angeline Van Maastricht, his three brothers: Charles Vannette, Calvin Vannette, and Paul Vannette; and his parents-in-law: William and Jeanne ( Larooy) Haverkamp. Avert was a member of the Covenant Reformed Church, U.R.C. in Pella, Iowa.
For those desiring, memorials may be designated for Hospice of Pella or the Pella Christian Grade School
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Nellie Van Roekel,
November 23, 1907 - November 13, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: begins Sunday afternoon , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present , Sunday from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, November 18 at 11:00 a.m. , at Heartland Reformed Church, Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella, Iowa
Nellie Alida TerLouw was born on November 23, 1907, near Sully, Iowa. In 1918 she and her family moved southeast of Pella, Iowa where she graduated from the Pleasant View Country School. On March 29, 1933, she was united in marriage with Richard Van Roekel, a son of Gerrit and Minnie Van Heukelom Van Roekel. They were united in marriage at the farm home of her parents, Nickolas and Ida Van Houweling Ter Louw. Following their marriage they began farming her parents’ farm southeast of Pella. They then purchased their own farm east of Pella in the late 1940’s where they raised their two children: Ronald Lee and Linda Joy. They farmed for 40 years and in 1970 moved into Pella. Nellie and Richard enjoyed traveling and were privileged to make several significant trips on tours. They served as councilors at the American Missionary Fellowship Youth Camp, also known as the Chariton Bible Camp, for several years and then became active with The Gideons. In March of 2001, Nellie and Richard became residents at the Griffin Nursing Center in Knoxville, Iowa where they were cared for until becoming residents in the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Center in Pella in January of 2002. Richard passed away there on June 16, 2004, at the age of 96 years. They were privileged to share over 71 years of married life together. Nellie spent the remaining years of her long, active life in the Long Term Care Unit reading, doing word search, and participating in crafts and other activities. She was most insistent on being outdoors in the mornings and evenings, when at all possible. Her long life ended peacefully there on Thursday morning, November 13, 2008, 10 days prior to her 101st birthday. Nellie is survived by her two children, 4 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren: Ronald Van Roekel and his wife, Mary Lou (Van Wyk) of Otley, Iowa; Linda Witzenburg of Pella, Iowa. Nellie was the last surviving member of her original family and leaves just one sister-in-law, Esther (Henry) Roorda of Pella. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Van Roekel; her parents, Nickolas and Ida TerLouw; her parents-in-law, Gerrit and Minnie Van Roekel; her brother, Gysbert TerLouw and his wife, Winnie; two sisters: Stella and her husband, Harry Boot, Jeanette and her husband, Marion De Bruin; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Louis and Chistine Van Roekel, Stevanna (Van Roekel) and Dave Roorda, Henry A. and Wilma Van Roekel, and Tena (Van Roekel) and Henry C. Roorda. Nellie had been active with the Pella Community Hospital Auxiliary and the Third Reformed Church of Pella and was a charter member of the Heartland Reformed Church at Pella, Iowa.
For those desiring, memorials may be given for the The Gideons Living Memorial Bible Plan
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Carolyn Dieleman,
August 06, 1940 - November 10, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: Visitation begins Wednesday morning , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Visitation: family present, Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at , at Third Reformed Church
Funeral Service: Thursday, November 13 at 10:00 a.m. , at Third Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa
Interment: Oakwood Cemetery at Pella
Carolyn Joan Johannes was the first of three children that were born to Cleo and Dorothy Irene Piersel Johannes. She was born on August 6, 1940, at Barnes City, Iowa. Carolyn received her grade school education at the Brush College, West Center and Lacey Country Grade Schools. Carolyn graduated from Lacey High School at Lacey, Iowa with the Class of 1958 and during high school enjoyed playing basketball. While attending high school, Carolyn met Ronald Dale Dieleman, a son of Elmer and Emma Van Haaften Dieleman. Carolyn's mother and Ron's mother were concerned about their children dating, Carolyn's mother concerned about her dating a Dutch boy and Ron's mother concerned about him dating an American girl. But both being Christians continued their dating and made Jesus Christ the center of their relationship and on September 16, 1960 , were united in marriage at the Third Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa. Their marriage was an awesome experience and they were blessed with three wonderful children: Jeffery Allen who was born on July 2, 1961, Debra Joan who was born on February 22, 1963 and Cathy Diane who was born on July 25, 1968. Carolyn had worked as a Dental Assistant in Oskaloosa, Iowa prior to their marriage and then became a devoted homemaker. While raising her family she also found time to be a Teacher's Aide in the North Mahaska School District at New Sharon, Iowa. Carolyn then shared her talents as a Secretary at the Third Reformed Church in Pella while Ronald farmed 10 miles east of Pella and also worked at Vermeer Manufacturing. Carolyn served in this capacity at the church for 25 years and because of her ill health had to retire in 2003. Carolyn was a cancer survivor for 10 years and succumbed to this illness on Sunday evening, November 9, 2008, while being cared for at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella. During her entire lifetime of 68 years, 3 months and 3 days Carolyn truly exemplified a servant's heart, a gracious spirit and what it meant to be a witness for Jesus Christ. Those who will remember this spirit are her faithful, loving, devoted husband of 48 years, Ronald; their son, Jeffery A. Dieleman and his wife, Deborah (Krotz) and their two children, Paige and Chase Dieleman of Washington, Iowa; their daughter, Debra J. and her husband, Steven Boyd of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and their two daughters and their husbands: Jennifer and Duke De Jong and their son, Samuel De Jong of Marion, Iowa, Niccole and John Thomas and their two sons, Mikale and Noah Thomas of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Cathy D. and Mark Law and their two daughters: Emily and Kaitlyn of Newton, Iowa. Carolyn leaves her younger sister and brother, Linda Johannes, Roger Johannes and his wife, Marilyn of Oskaloosa, Iowa; and two brothers-in-law and their wives: Merle and Peggy Dieleman of Bettendorf, Iowa, Ed and Marcia Dieleman of Oskaloosa, Iowa. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Cleo and Dorothy Johannes; her parents-in-law, Elmer and Emma Dieleman; and a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Wilma (Dieleman) and Chester Terpstra. Carolyn's journey of faith began while worshipping in the balcony of the old Third Reformed Church. She made profession of her faith there and remained a faithful servant of Jesus Christ while attending and serving Third Reformed Church the remainder of her lifetime. She and Ronald enjoyed their visits to Branson, Missouri and Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. She enjoyed reading and was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan. Carolyn's most enjoyable time was being a mother and grandmother and that time spent with her family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given for the Third Reformed Church or the Hospice of Pella Comfort House in Pella, Iowa
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Arnold H. De Bruin,
June 18, 1915 - November 08, 2008
Pella, Iowa
Visitation: family present , Monday evening 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. , at Van Dyk- Duven Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Tuesday, November 11 at 2:00 p.m. , at Third Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa
Graveside Service: Tuesday, 1:00 p.m. , at Black Oak Cemetery near Pella
Arnold Harold De Bruin was the son of Jacob Cornelius and Johanna Bieshaar De Bruin. He and and his twin brother , Harold Arnold, were born on June 18, 1915 in rural Pella, Iowa into a family of 8 siblings. Arnold attended the Black Oak Country Grade School and graduated from Pella Public High School in Pella. As a young lad, Arnold farmed. On January 3, 1935, he was united in marriage with Bernice Anna Verrips, a daughter of Samuel and Anna Van Ommen Verrips, whom he had met in high school. Arnold and Bernice were married at the First Reformed Church parsonage in Pella by the Rev. Anthony D. Haverkamp and to this union four sons were born: Larry Eugene, Donald Lee who died at birth in 1938, Charles Edwin and Stanley Wayne. After living in rural Marion County, Iowa, Arnold and Bernice later purchased the Maid-Rite in Pella which they owned and operated together with her sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Dick Leydens. Arnold then became an employee at V & R Grocery Store as a delivery man, which was a common service provided by grocery stores in that day. He later established a dairy route. For 20 years Arnold had an Anderson Erickson milk route, delivering milk products right to and into your home. Arnold retired in 1980 and during all his working years displayed a real sense of caring for people and providing for their needs. Bernice retired from the dietary department at the Pella Community Hospital after 13 years, and together they enjoyed traveling, all over Europe and to Italy and Israel. They continued living at 716 Jefferson Street and on February 25, 1994, Bernice passed away at the age of 79 years. Arnold continued to enjoy his grandchildren providing them with chocolate milk and was an avid sports enthusiast. He became a resident in the Long Term Care Unit at the Pella Regional Health Center in January of 2008 and passed away there on Saturday, November 8, 2008, at the age of 93 years, 4 months and 20 days. Those who will his memory are his three sons and their wives, 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. They and their families are: Larry and Lee (Louwsma) De Bruin of Pella, Iowa; Charles and Susan (Miller) De Bruin of Lancaster, Pennsylvania; Stanley and Ann (Veldhuis) De Bruin of Johnston,Iowa. Of his original family Arnold leaves his twin brother, Harold A. De Bruin of Oskaloosa, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his wife,Bernice; his infant son, Donald Lee; his parents: J. C. and Josie De Bruin; two half- brothers and a half- sister and their spouses: Cornie A. and Frances De Bruin, Edna and Gerrit Van Roekel, Henry W. Bruin and his wives, Marie and Henrietta; his three sisters and a brother and their spouses: J. Grace and Gerrit Vis, Albert and Jennie De Bruin, Clara and William Blom, Frances De Bruin; his sister-in-law, Ethel (Harold) De Bruin; and the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Marie (Verrips) and John H.Van Arkel, Dorothy (Verrips) and Dick Leydens, Gertrude (Verrips) and Raymond Vander Linden and Wilma Verrips. Arnold was baptized as an infant at the Third Reformed Church in Pella where he made profession of his faith as a teen-ager and remained a faithful member the remainder of his life. His desire was to be remembered as a good Christian father, grandfather, great-grandfather and Brother in Christ.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given for the Third Reformed Church or Hospice of Pella, Iowa
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