Obituaries

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Obituaries

MARK DAVID STEVENSON
Mark David Stevenson, 24, of Pella, died March 10. Funeral services will be Saturday, March 13, 10:30 a.m. at Second Christian Reformed Church. Visitation begins at noon on Friday, March 12 with family present from 6-8 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella.

JACOB B. DAHM
J.B. Dahm, 91, of Pella, died March 8. Funeral services will be Saturfay, March 13, 11 a.m. at First Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation will be Friday at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home with family present from 5-7 p.m. Memorials may be designated for the Carnegie Viersen Public Library or Hospice of Pella.

VIVIAN VANDER POL
Vivian A. Shutts Vander Pol, 85, of Lynnville, died March 7. Funeral services will be Friday, March 12, 10:30 a.m. at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in Sully. Visitation will be Thursday at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home with family present from 5-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated to St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.

Vivian Almetta Shutts was born on March 15, 1924, on the family farm southwest of Sully, Iowa. Vivian, the daughter of Elwood and Edna Mae (Youngkin) Shutts, was the youngest of two children. She attended the Dairy Grove Country Grade School and graduated from the Sully High School in 1942. After high school Vivian worked at the Sully Creamery. On September 29, 1943, she was united in marriage to Delmar Vander Pol, son of Guy and Maggie (Eysink) Vander Pol. They were married at the St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church and to this union two daughters were born: Marilyn Mae and Peggy Lee. Delmar and Vivian operated a Massey Ferguson dealership in the Lynnville area for 50 years and a farm tiling operation for 40 years. Vivian was very busy as a partner with Delmar in the business and as a homemaker to her family. She maintained this balance with ambition that remained with her the rest of her lifetime. On January 20, 2000, Delmar passed away at the age of 78. Vivian remained at the farm and took pride in maintaining her home and acreage. We can believe she was doing just that when she died suddenly on March 7, 2010, at the Pella Regional Health Center in Pella, Iowa. Vivian attained the age of 85 years, just 8 days before her 86th birthday. Vivian is survived by two daughters, 4 grandchildren and 10 special great-grandchildren. They and their families are: Marilyn and Bob Van Soelen of Lynnville, Iowa,Greg and Kathy Van Soelen of Pittsburgh, CA,Madeline, Keaton, Ava and Eden,Becky and Kevin Roose of Urbandale, IA,Harrison, Kennedy; Peggy Huyser of Sully, Iowa,Chad and Valerie Huyser of Pella, Iowa,Camryn, Gage and Coakley,Suzanne and Patrick Jensen of Waukee, Iowa,Catherine Vivian. Vivian leaves just her sister-in-law, Maxine (Wayne) Shutts of Montezuma, Iowa. Vivian was preceded in death by her husband, Delmar on January 16, 2000; her father, Elwood Shutts in 1938 and her mother, Edna in 1974, her step father, Thomas Earl Cockley in 1966,her great grandson, Christian Van Soelen on March 19, 1996; and her brother, Wayne Shutts on April 11, 1999. She was a member of the St. Andrews Lutheran Church and was involved in many activities, including WELCA of St. Andrews Church, a women’s group. Vivian loved the outdoors, whether it was watching birds, sitting under the tree by the pond or tending to her flower beds. She especially enjoyed mowing her own yard, just the way she liked it. Vivian was an independent and kind lady. She was very much loved by her entire family and many friends.

SARA OLSTHOORN
Sara M. Rempe Olsthoorn, 83, of Pella, died March 6. Funeral services will be Wed., March 10, at 1:30 p.m. at Trinity Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation will begin Tuesday morning at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home with family present from 4-7 p.m. Memorials may be designated for the American Cancer Society or Trinity Reformed Church.

Sara Mae Rempe was born on March 3, 1927, on the family farm near Leighton, Iowa. Sara, the daughter of Gerrit and Rena Menninga Rempe, had two younger brothers, Johnny Robert, who died as an infant, and Wilfred Gene Rempe. Sara attended the Else Country Grade School and graduated from the Pleasant Ridge Country Grade School. On September 28, 1951, she was united in marriage to Marion John Olsthoorn, son of Arie and Hattie Bruxvoort Olsthoorn. Sara and Marion were married on her parent’s family farm near Leighton and to this union four children were born: John Robert, Linda Kay, Larry Dean and Harlan Ray. Sara and Marion farmed near Leighton until 1959, when they moved into Pella, Iowa. They lovingly raised their four children. Marion was always a hard worker providing for the needs of their family. In addition to be a loving wife and mother, Sara loved to read. On February 24, 2002, her husband, Marion, passed away at the age of 72 years, having just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Then 3 days following Sara’s 83rd birthday she passed away on Saturday, March 6, 2010, at the Pella Regional Health Center. Sara is survived by three children, 8 grandchildren and one very special great- granddaughter, Cameron Rozendaal. They and their families are: John R. and Cheryl Olsthoorn of Wichita, Kansas; Linda K. and Karl Rozendaal of Pella, Iowa, James and Beth Rozendaal of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Jason, Nichole, and Cameron Rozendaal of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Joey Rozendaal of Pella, Iowa, Josh Rozendaal of Cedar Falls, Iowa; Larry D. (Marlene) Olsthoorn of Newburgh, Indiana, Sara Olsthoorn of Newburgh, Indiana, Maria Olsthoorn of Newburgh, Indiana;(Harlan R.) Brenda Olsthoorn of Pella, Iowa, David Olsthoorn of Pella, Iowa, Derek Olsthoorn of Pella, Iowa. Sara leaves her sister-in-law, Dorothy (Wilfred) Rempe and her nephew, Duane Rempe of Pella, Iowa; along with the following sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Dorothy (Olsthoorn) and Joe Waiksnis of Bozeman, Montana, Gerald and Patsy Olsthoorn of Haysville, Kansas, Ardella (Olsthoorn) and John Burr of Newton,Iowa, Ruth(Olsthoorn)and Ron Graham , Harvey and Sandy Olsthoorn all of Kellogg, Iowa. Sara was preceded in death by her husband, Marion; her son, Harlan R. Olsthoorn in 2004; her daughter-in-law, Marlene (Larry) Olsthoorn in 2007; her parents, Gerrit and Rena Rempe; her parents-in-law, Arie and Hattie Olsthoorn; her infant brother, Johnny Robert Rempe and her brother, Wilfred G. Rempe who died in 2000. Sara was baptized and made profession of her faith as a young girl at the Ebenezer Reformed Church in Leighton, Iowa. At the time of her death she was a member of the Trinity Reformed Church in Pella where she had been a member for over 50 years. Sara loved EVERYONE! She was a special lady with a big heart. She was very much loved by her entire family and many friends.

SUSAN M. GLESSNER
Susan M. Glessner, 50, of Pella, died March 5. Funeral services will be March 15 at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Christian Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. on March 15, and extend until the time of service at the church. Memorials may be designated for the Christian Opportunity Center in Pella, Hospice of Pella, or Faith Christian Reformed Church in Pella. Funeral arrangements by Garden Chapel Funeral Home of Pella.

Susan Marie Glessner was born on December 28, 1959, in Davenport, Iowa, to John W. and Janet M. Anderson Glessner, Sr.? She passed away on Friday, March 5, 2010, at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House at the age of fifty.

Prior to her moving to Pella in 1996, she received her early education at River Hills School in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Johnny Appleseed School in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. Most recently she was a resident at the Christian Opportunity Center in Pella where she was a contract laborer in the COC workshop.

Susan was a member of the Faith Christian Reformed Church in Pella, where she was active in a Bible Study group. She enjoyed bowling, shopping, music, rhyming, and her vast collection of stuffed animals. Her favorite color was blue and her favorite places were Lake Rathbun and the Special Touch Camp in Ogden, Iowa.

Those left to cherish her memory are her parents, John Sr. and Janet Glessner of Mesa, Arizona; her brother, John Glessner Jr. of Scottsdale, Arizona; her twin sister, Sandra L. Summers of Centerville, Iowa; and many extended family members.

Susan loved the Lord and her family. She will be missed by her family and many friends.

Susan's family would like to sincerely thank extended family, friends, the Christian Opportunity Center, church members, and the Hospice of Pella Comfort House for their support and patient care.

ARTHUR SNELLER
Arthur Sneller, 79, of Pella, died March 7. Funeral services will be Wed., March 10 at 11 a.m. at Covenant Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. on Tues., March 9, with family present from 6-8 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Memorials may be designated for the Long Term Care Unit of Pella Regional Health Center.

Art Sneller was born near Monroe, Iowa, on April 5, 1930. He weighed only two pounds, small enough to fit in a shoe box. He was the youngest of six children, four brothers and one sister. He attended school in Colfax where he completed the eighth grade. After he finished school he went to work for his brother, Henry, for a few years and then worked for a family friend on the farm. He was working for Edwin Vander Ploeg when, at the age of twenty, he met Marjorie Klyn in Pella. They married January 5, 1951, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella.

Their first home was in Otley. While living there, their son Allen was born in 1953. Art worked at the Otley Co-op for a short time and then became employed in the window department at the Pella Rolscreen Company. He also did carpet and furniture cleaning on the side through Duraclean International. Art and Marjorie moved into Pella when Allen was one year old. Their daughter, Mary, was born in 1957 and another daughter, Brenda, in 1962. After forty-two years of employment, Art retired in April, 1995. During that time he attained several years of perfect attendance.

Art passed away at the Pella Regional Health Center-Long Term Care on Sunday, March 7, 2010, at the age of seventy-nine.

Art was a member of the Covenant Reformed Church in Pella. His favorite pastime was refurbishing his John Deere tractor with his son. He was also a member of the Red Rock Threshers. He enjoyed bowling, participating in various bowling leagues and working at the bowling alley in Pella for several years.

Art was especially proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved to babysit them, feed them ice cream, and watch cartoons with them. Art liked to keep busy and help people.

Those left to cherish his memory are: his three children: Allen (Doreen) Sneller of Indianola; Mary (Calvin) Van Haaften of Pella, and Brenda (Roger) Witzenburg of Pella; eight grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; his sister, Labertha Vander Schel of Newton: sister-in-law, Bernice (Tootie) Sneller of Pella; his brothers-in-law: Arthur Klyn, Raymond (Lois) Klyn, Marion (Glenda) Klyn, Sidney (Mary) Klyn, Lawrence (Valda) Klyn, Lester (Linda) Klyn all of Pella, John (Lois) Klyn of New Sharon, Marvin (Phyllis) Klyn of Michigan; his sister-in-law, Sylvia Langstraat of Pella. and a host of relatives and friends.

Art was preceded in death by: his parents; wife, Marjorie on January 7, 2010; brothers: Jacob Sneller, Hank (Doretha) Sneller, Rick (Cora) Sneller, and Gerrit (Annabell) Sneller, and brother-in-law, Cyrus Vander Schel.

Family:
Allen and Doreen Sneller - Indianola, Iowa
Sharla and Bob Eschliman
Hannah and Jayden Eschliman
Sheila and Curt Graham
Andy Sneller, Brandon, and Cody Graham

Mary and Calvin Van Haaften - Pella, Iowa
Crystal and Dan Schreur
Robby Schreur
Carissa and Zach Vander Linden
Hunter and Tyson Vander Linden
Joseph Van Haaften

Brenda and Roger Witzenburg - Pella, Iowa
Amanda and Denny Binns
Donovan and Troy Binns
Allison Pierson and special friend Phil Kennedy
Quinton Kelsey and Lily Kennedy
Alicia and Shawn Nance
Alexis Pierson

JACK BOERIGTER
Pastor Jack O. Boerigter, 83, of Waseca, MN and Reddick, FL, formerly of Pella, died March 3 in Pella. Funeral services will be Monday, March 8, 10:30 a.m., at Heartland Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation will be Sunday at Van Dy-Duven Funeral Home, with family present from 5-7 p.m.. Memorials may be designated for Hospice of Central Iowa.

Jack Oliver Boerigter was born on March 31, 1926, in Holland, Michigan. His parents, Edward and Julia Boeve Boerigter, raised two sets of sons, of which Jack was the oldest. Jack was educated in the Holland Public Schools and immediately upon his high school graduation enlisted in the armed services. Jack had aspirations of becoming an Air Force pilot but circumstances did not allow for that and he was assigned to the Army Air Forces as a light truck driver after World War II. Due to health issues he was honorably discharged in May, 1946. Following his discharge he returned to Holland and enrolled at Hope College. On June 6, 1947, he was united in marriage with Mildred Kaat and to that union three children were born: Robert Jack, Barbara Jo and Jan Louise. Jack dropped out of college after he started his family and was involved in a number of business endeavors including farming and appliance sales with his father. He eventually returned to college and graduated from Hope College in 1954 and Western Theological Seminary in Holland as a non-traditional seminary student in 1957. Rev. Boerigter faithfully served as the senior pastor in Reformed Church of America congregations in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Oostburg, Wisconsin, Sioux Center Iowa, DeMotte, Indiana and Pella Iowa. As part of his ministry for 40 years he served for many years on the General Program Council of the Reformed Church of America. In addition he was a former member of the Board of Trustees of Northwestern College at Orange City, Iowa and Central College in Pella, Iowa. Jack married Delores( Van Vark) Vande Noord on February 14, 1985. They made their residences in Waseca, Minnesota and Reddick, Florida and recently celebrated 25 happy years of married life together. Prior to his full time retirement, Jack served some years as a professional fund raiser including development work with the University of Minnesota- Waseca. He and Delores attended the First Congregational Church when residing at Waseca. While spending winters in Florida, Pastor Boerigter served for many years as the preaching pastor of the Deer Creek Camper’s Church in Davenport, Florida where his weekly sermons and singing were an inspiration to many. Besides the ministry, he and Delores, had an avid interest in Belgian horses. Together they owned and showed Belgian horses beginning in 1986 and operated “A Touch of Country Class Boutique” on their farm near Waseca until the present time. On Wednesday morning, March 3, 2010, Jack passed away near Pella, Iowa at the age of 83 years. Jack is survived by his three children and their families: a son, Dr. Robert Boerigter and his wife Mary of Maryville, Missouri and their sons: Marc Boerigter and his wife, Petra of Olathe, Kansas and John Boerigter of Kansas City, Missouri, a daughter, Barbara and her husband Rev. David Schutt of Ripon, California and their daughters: Kara and her husband, Matt Boekenhauer of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin and Kendra and her husband, Gabe Carlson of Clive, Iowa and a daughter, Jan and her husband Verl Van Riessen of DeMotte, Indiana and their children: Chad Van Riessen of Maryville, Missouri and Candice Van Riessen of Indianapolis, Indiana. Jack was proud that each of his grandchildren were college graduates with a degree in four years and he witnessed all of their commencement ceremonies. Jack is survived by his wife, Delores, and her three sons and their wives: Michael and Sharon Vande Noord and their two sons: Josh and Jake, Marc and Jennifer Vande Noord and their two children: Alec and Bianca, Matthew and Maria Vande Noord and their two children: Aubrey and Braden all of Pella, Iowa; and seven great-grandchildren: Macie and Lincoln Boerigter, Ethan, Jenna, Ryan Boekenhauer, Kaylee and Elyse Carlson. In addition he is survived by his three younger brothers and their wives: Paul and Doris Boerigter of Holland, Michigan, David and Barbara Boerigter of Squim, Washington and George and Sibilla Boerigter of Albuquerque, New Mexico; as well as many nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Julia Boeve Boerigter.

LARRY A. MULDER
Larry A. Mulder, 55, of Pella, died Feb. 28. Funeral services will be Thursday, March 4, 10:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in Pella. Extra parking and a shuttle will be available on the lower level of Third Reformed Church. willVisitation will begin at noon on Wed., March 3, with family present from 4-6:00 p.m. at the Church. There will be a sharing time at 6 p.m. Wed. at the church. Memorials may be designated to Peace Lutheran Church - Landscaping/Children's Playground. Garden Chapel Funeral Home

Larry Allan Mulder was born on May 16, 1954, to Marvin and Loretta (Kleinhuizen) Mulder in Denver, Colorado. He passed away at his home in Pella on Sunday, February 28, 2010, at the age of fifty-five.

Larry graduated from Renville Community High School in Renville, Minnesota. He received his college degree in Physical Education from South Dakota State University, where he played basketball for the Jackrabbits.

On May 7, 1977, Larry was united in marriage with Ellen Louise Schmidt in Renville, Minnesota. They were blessed with three children: Allison Beth, Amanda June, and Nicholas Todd.

For the last thirty-four years Larry was employed as a salesman for K & M Manufacturing selling after-market tractor parts. He truly enjoyed the friendships he made while calling on dealerships throughout the Midwest.

Larry was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Pella and active in Adult Fellowship Together (AFT) and Bible Study. Witnessing the growing ministry and expansion of Peace Church brought him great joy.

Larry treasured being with his grandchildren, spending time with friends on the deck "schmoozing", and cheering for the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, and the Iowa Hawkeyes. A passionate scuba diver, Larry earned his certification as a rescue diver before his lung cancer prohibited him from pursuing his hobby. From the time he was young, Larry was a sports enthusiast. He enjoyed the camaraderie and competition of sports, whether participating or supporting his children from the stands.

Those left to cherish his memory are his father: Marvin Mulder, his wife, Ellen; his three children and their spouses: Allison and Cory Kerndt of Pella, Amanda and Shayne Roe of Pella, and Nick and Kelsey (Rethmeier) Mulder of Des Moines; three grandchildren: Calla "Coo Coo Bird" and Colin "Big Bopper" Kerndt and Nile "Big Buster" Roe; four brothers and their spouses: Steve and Ev Mulder, Greg and Robin Mulder, Kevin and Michelle Mulder, and Kim and Nancy Mulder; his mother-in-law: Alice Wein; his two brother-in-laws and their spouses: Rick and Cindy Schmidt and Bill and Jill Schmidt; his sister-in-law and her spouse: Danny and Cathy Lindberg; and sister-in-law: Susan Barber; and his many nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart. Larry was preceded in death by his mother: Loretta Mulder; and his grandparents.

Larry will always be remembered for his sense of humor and generous spirit. He lived each day as a gift from God and cherished his time with family and friends.

WANDA VAN DYK GROENENDYK
Wanda Van Dyk Groenendyk, 74, of Leighton, died Feb. 15 in Casa Grande, Arizona after a 2 1/2 year battle with cancer. Wanda was born on July 1, 1935 in Keota, Iowa, the daughter of Fred and Teannetta (Vonk) Van Dyk. She was a graduate of Oskaloosa Christian Grade School and Oskaloosa High School. She made profession of faith at the First Christian Reformed Church in Oskaloosa. On November 9, 1954 she married Edwin Groenendyk of Leighton, Iowa at her parents' home near Oskaloosa. Shortly after their marriage, Ed entered the Army. Ed and Wanda spent time at Ft. Bragg, NC and later in Straubing, West Germany. To this marriage were born 4 children.

Wanda and Ed owned and operated Leighton Lumber and Hardware for 33 years, as well as, a farm one mile North of Leighton. Wanda sold Avon for 35 years. She worked as Post Master Relief for ten years. She was an active volunteer at the Nelson Pioneer Farm while still able. Wanda and Ed were members of Leighton Christian Reformed Church. She loved to travel and enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. Wanda enjoyed her garden, she loved her family, but most of all loved her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

She is survived by her loving husband Ed of 55 years; her children: Bruce (Lisa), Mike, Keith (Neva), all of Leighton, Iowa, and Marsha and Dave Workman of Inver Grove Heights, Minn.; seven grandchildren: Alan (Lindy) Groenendyk of Sioux Center, Iowa, Alicia Groenendyk of Pella, Iowa, Jessica Groenendyk of Ames, Iowa; Nathan Groenendyk of Leighton, Iowa, Michelle Workman of Inver Grove, Minn., Philip Workman of Inver Grove, Minn. and Trenton Murray of Holdrege, Nebraska; many nieces and nephews; and family friend Kathy Groenendyk.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Teannetta (Jeanette) Van Dyk; her sister, Jeannella (Brownie); and her brothers-in-law: Marion Brink, Walter Van Dorland, and Bob Kelderman.

Memorials may be made to the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee (CRWRC).

Funeral services were held on Saturday February 20th at the Leighton Christian Reformed Church. "

MAKAYLA BETH ROBERTS
Makayla Beth Roberts, 29 day old daughter of Jill Dohrmann and Brian Roberts of Pella, died Feb. 19. Visitation will be Monday, Feb. 22, from 4-5:30 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home. Private family services will be Tuesday.

ROBERT VAN ZANTE
Robert Lee Van Zante, 83, of Pella, died Feb. 18. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Feb. 23, 11:00 a.m. at Second reformed Church in Pella, with luncheon to follow the military honors accorded at the church. Visitation is Monday at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home. Memorials may be desigated to the National Parkinson Foundation

Robert Lee Van Zante was born on November 25, 1926, at Pella, Iowa. He was the oldest of three sons that were born to Dick Cornelius and Corinne Lee Van Zante, who later adopted a daughter, LaVerne Lee, a niece of Corinne’s. His father, Dick, was the son of immigrants from Holland and eventually practiced law in Pella for over 50 years. His mother, Corinne Lee, was a native of Bedford, Kentucky near Louisville. Robert graduated from Pella Public High School with the Class of 1946 and then attended Central College in Pella. During the Korean War he served in the U.S. Army with the allied occupation forces in Germany, from 1950 to 1952. It was in Germany, at Idar-Oberstein, that he met his future wife, Thekla Bindel. Robert and Thekla were married in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1953, where his adopted sister, LaVerne Lee, was living at the time. Robert and Thekla returned to Pella and to this union one son, Gary August, was born in 1954. Robert held a position in human resources at the Rolscreen Company, now the Pella Corporation. He was employed at Pella Corp. for 33 years and retired in 1985. Like his father, Dick, Robert had been active with the Pella Junior Chamber of Commerce and remained active with the Van Veen- Van Hemert American Legion Post No. 89 of Pella, of which his wife, Thekla, was also active with the American Legion Auxiliary. He was a member of the Second Reformed Church for many years. Robert’s great avocation was photography. He took his first photographs in high school, but it was in Europe during his military service that he was most active with the camera. He continued to photograph for the next 50 years. An exhibition of his photographs was held at the Pella Community Center in the 1980’s. He was also an avid swimmer for most of his life. Robert struggled with Parkinson’s Disease for the last decade of his life. As this disease progressed he was cared for in various facilities near Pella and passed away early Thursday morning, February 18, 2010, at the Griffin Nursing Center in Knoxville, Iowa at the age of 83 years. Robert is survived by his wife, Thekla; his son, Gary August Van Zante and his wife, Leslie Myers of Providence, Rhode Island; his sister-in-law, Shirley Borland (Mrs. Dirk) Van Zante of Des Moines, Iowa; brothers-in-law:Rolf Bindel of Riegelsberg, Germany and Gerd Bindel of Wadern, Germany; and sisters-in-law: Iise Laubenheimer and Inge Leonardy both of Saarbrücken, Germany. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his mother, Corinne Lee Van Zante, who died January 15, 1971, his father, Dick C. Van Zante, who died October 15, 1981; his step-mother, Francis Mansfield Van Zante; a brother, who died in infancy, his brother, Dirk C. Van Zante, who died March 24, 2009; and his adopted sister, LaVerne Lee Rappazzo.

BETTY NIKKEL
Betty M. Nikkel, 84, of Pella, died Feb. 16. Funeral services will be Saturday, Feb. 20, 10:30 a.m. at Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation begins at noon on Fri., Feb. 19, with family present from 6-8 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Memorials may be designated for the Christian Opportunity Center in Pella, or the Newton Christian School.

Betty Marie Nikkel, daughter of John and Katie Fopma Laverman, was born March 23, 1925, at the family home north of Sully, Iowa. She passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2010, at the Northern Mahaska Nursing and Rehab Center in Oskaloosa, Iowa, at the age of eighty-four.

On January 11, 1945, Betty was united in marriage with Bernie J. Nikkel at the church parsonage in Sully. To this union seven children were born: Warren, Larry, Ervin, Verlin, Diane, Pamela, and Brent.

Betty and Bernie farmed in the Kellogg and Newton area for several years after their marriage. A few years after Bernie's death, Betty moved to Pella. In the early years Betty enjoyed caring for her family and later became a cook at the Pella Regional Health Center and Fair Haven. She retired from Fair Haven in 1996.

She was a member of the Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Pella where she was an active member of the Ladies Aid Society. She enjoyed crocheting, reading, and cooking.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children and their spouses: Larry and Connie Nikkel of Altoona, Ervin and Kim Nikkel of Reasnor, Verlin and Peggy Nikkel of Oskaloosa, Diane and Jay Bruxvoort of Oskaloosa, Pamela and Paul Bolles of Prairie City, Brent Nikkel of Oskaloosa; fourteen grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; and two brothers and their wives: Wilford and Henrietta Laverman and Les and Marcella Laverman all of Sully.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bernie; her son Warren Nikkel and his wife, Donna; daughter-in-law, Debbie Nikkel; and sister, Charlene Vander Hart.

RAYMOND H. VAN WYK
Raymond H. Van Wyk, 88, of Pella died Feb. 15. Funeral services will be Friday, Feb. 19, at 10 a.m. at the Otley Reformed Church. Visitation begins at noon on Thursday, Feb. 18, with family present from 5-7 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Memorials may be designated for the Otley Reformed Church or Hospice of Pella Comfort House.

Raymond H. Van Wyk, son of Gerrit J. and Cornelia Roorda Van Wyk, was born February 20, 1921, near Eddyville, Iowa. He passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House on Monday, February 15, 2010, five days short of his eighty-ninth birthday.

He attended the Otley School and completed the eighth grade.

On January 20, 1949, Ray was united in marriage with Gertrude Van Wyk at the Sully Reformed Church. They were blessed with two children: Linda and Galen.

For many years Ray was in petroleum sales, driving a tank wagon for the Otley Farmer's Cooperative.

He was a member of the Otley Reformed Church where he served as a Deacon for two terms and as an Elder for seven terms. He was also a member of the Men's Brotherhood at the Otley church.

Ray loved gardening, watching baseball, especially his favorite team the Tigers. He also spent considerable time reading his Bible.

Ray is survived by his wife of sixty-one years, Gertrude; two children and their spouses; five grandchildren; his brother, Richard Van Wyk; sister, Geraldine Ver Ploeg; and two sisters-in-law: Margaret Van Wyk, Johnita Van Wyk and Ada Van Wyk.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers: Myron (Mike), Cornie, Gerrit, Alfred, Warren, Lewis; and his sisters: Adrianna De Jong Den Hartog and Fannetta Ver Ploeg De Cook.

Family:
Wife: Gertrude Van Wyk - Pella

Linda and Gary Snetselaar - Iowa City
Tyler Snetselaar
Jordan Snetselaar
Daniel Snetselaar

Galen and Jayni Van Wyk - Pella
Katherine Sopher
Jennifer Sopher

WILMA BRAND
Wilma G. Van Roekel Brand, 87, died Feb. 13. Funeral services will be Wed., Feb. 17, 1:30 p.m. at First Reformed Church in Sully. Visitation will begin Tuesday after 2 p.m. at the church, with family present from 5-7 p.m. Memorials may be designated for The Gideon's International or Grinnell Regional Hospice. Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home

Wilma Grace Van Roekel was born on September 17, 1922, on a farm near Sully, Iowa. She was an only child born to Henry B. and Nellie De Penning Van Roekel. Wilma began her formal education in a one room school house close to the farm and attended Sully High School at Sully, Iowa for one year. On January 26, 1943, she was united in marriage with Roscoe Charles Brand, a son of Jacob H. and Mabel F. Renaud Brand, by the Rev. Ralph Menning at the home of her parents. During the early years of their marriage they lived on an Army base at Raleigh, North Carolina while Roscoe served his country during World War II, and to this union three children were born: Verlan Wayne, Eileen Fern and Roland Dean. In 1947, they moved to a farm North of Lynnville, Iowa where they farmed all their married life. Wilma enjoyed working the soil along side her husband, Roscoe, and watching the Lord bless the fruits of their labors. She also enjoyed gardening, working with flowers and serving others in need. Service was Wilma's personality until her health failed. In November of 2006, she moved to Seeland Park in Grinnell, Iowa and in September of 2007, she moved into St. Francis Manor where she was cared for the remainder of her life. Wilma passed away there late Saturday evening, February 13, 2010 at the age of 87 years, 4 months and 26 days. Those left to honor her memory are three children and their spouses, 9 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. They and their families are: Verlan and Helen (Van Wyk) Brand of Grinnell, Iowa,Joni and Duane Collins of Lynnville, Iowa, Cayla, Coltin, Cheyanne Collins, Julie and Eric Jones of Sully, Iowa, Lucas Jones, Jamie and Natalie Brand of Grimes, Iowa,Benjamin, Zachary Brand,Jason and Wanda Brand of Pella, Iowa,Allison, Aidan, Kylie Brand; Eileen and Ronald Gruver of Lynnville, Iowa,Michael and April Gruver of Pella, Iowa, Quinn, Drake Gruver,Timothy Gruver and Karri Dunn of Plainfield, Illinois,Brittany, Gabrielle, Jacob Gruver,Douglas and Janise Gruver of Sully, Iowa,Abigail, James Gruver; Roland and Thelma (Van Sant ) Brand of Taylor Ridge, Illinois,Mark and Christine Brand of Lexington, Kentucky, Elijah, Jacob, Joshua Brand,Karla Brand of Dallas, Texas. Wilma enjoyed watching, teaching, and nurturing her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Wilma's extended family surviving are the following brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Lloyd and Arlene Brand of Sully, Iowa, Dorothy (Brand) and Ervin Loder of Golden, Colorado; along with several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roscoe Brand, who died on June 15, 1995; her parents, Henry B. and Nellie Van Roekel; and her parents-in-law, Jacob H. and Mabel Brand. Wilma made profession of her faith at a young age at the First Reformed Church in Sully, Iowa. She was an active member there serving as a Sunday School teacher, catechism teacher, daily vacation Bible school teacher and a longtime member of the Martha Circle. In later years she and her late husband, Roscoe, became active with The Gideon's International and one of their greatest joys was spreading the news of the gospel by passing out Bibles and New Testaments. Wilma found great satisfaction in serving the Lord and will always be remembered as a loving, caring, hardworking Christian mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

RON NEWENDORP
Ronald Gene Newendorp, 51, of Pella, died Feb. 10. Funeral services were Monday, Feb. 15, at First Reformed Church in Pella. Memorials may be designated for the missions support of First Reformed church. Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home

Ronald Gene Newendorp was born on October 14, 1958, at Mercy Hospital in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Ron grew up on the family farm near Leighton, Iowa as the youngest of four sons that were born to Raymond Isaac and Clara Ruth Roorda Newendorp. Ron began his schooling at the Leighton Grade School in Leighton and graduated from Pella Community High School in Pella, Iowa with the Class of 1978. During high school Ron was honored and recognized as a manager for the boys varsity basketball team. The Newendorp family continued to live on the family farm near Leighton for 20 years during which time Ron had received 4-H recognition for his cattle showing and the boys recalled their pony riding experiences. In 1980, Ray, Clara and Ron moved into Pella, Iowa. Ron began working at Vermeer Manufacturing Company in 1979 and continued employment there until 1989. Soon thereafter he began working for Midwest Sanitation Service. This employment gave him responsibility and fulfillment and when the work day was completed Ron found enjoyment in riding a bicycle, watching sports and listening to C.D.’s in his room at home with his caring parents, his devoted mother, Clara and his late father, Ray. Ron was on the job on Tuesday, February 9, 2010, when he sustained an industrial injury and passed away on Wednesday, February 10, 2010, at Mercy Hospital Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Ron will always be fondly remembered in the minds and hearts of his family, his mother, Clara, and his three older brothers and their families: Robert Dale and Cindy (Wanders) Newendorp of Pella, IA, Josiah Newendorp of West Des Moines, IA,Lisa Newendorp of Germantown, WI, Lyla Dean Becker. Keith Edwin and Cheryl (Vander Plaats) Newendorp of Pella, IA,Eric and Allison Newendorp of Anthem, AZ, Haven Rae Newendorp,David and Vicki Newendorp of Burnsville, MN,James Isaac Newendorp,Emilie Elizabeth Newendorp,Jaclyn and Brian Visser of Iowa City, IA. Bruce Craig and Jan (Hauber) Newendorp of Cedar Falls, IA,Brandon Newendorp of Cedar Falls, IA,Amanda Newendorp of Cedar Falls, IA. Ron’s extended family includes the following Uncles and Aunts: R. Walter and Wilma Roorda, Erma (Roorda) De Haan, Carl Roorda, Eva Mae (Paul) Roorda, Freda (Newendorp) and Alvin Goemaat, Elva (Newendorp) and Donald Roorda; along with numerous cousins. Ron was preceded in death by his dad, Ray Newendorp, on June 29, 2007; his maternal grandparents, Wiggert A. and Reino Borgman Roorda; his paternal grandparents, Harry L. and Harriet Van Zee Newendorp; and two Uncles, Paul Roorda and Adrian De Haan. Ron was a lifelong, faithful member of the First Reformed Church in Pella. To be content in whatever state I am, was a virtue of Ron’s entire life of 51 years, 3 months and 26 days.

BEULAH GROENENDYK
Beulah J. Van De Wall Groenendyk, 83, of Tracy, died Feb. 7. Visitation will begin Thurs., Feb. 11, with family present from 4-6 p.m. and a Scripture Service at 6 p.m. at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home. Memorials may be designated for the Clay Twp. Rescue and Fire Unit at Tracy, Iowa, or Hospice of Pella.

Beulah Jane Van De Wall was born on May 11th, 1926, at Leighton, Iowa. She was the second of four children born to Peter and Gertrude Steenhoek Van De Wall. Beulah attended school at Monroe through the 8th grade and then left home to seek a life of her own. Through the years her many adventures led her to the love of her life, Charley Paul Groenendyk. Beulah and C.P.(Bud) Groenendyk “borrowed” the family car and where united in marriage on December 25th, 1946, in Hernando, Mississippi. After spending a month ”honeymooning” in Florida, they returned to Iowa to make their home in Tracy, Iowa. To this union three children were born: Susan Faye on February 8, 1948, Betty Jane on February 24, 1950 and Kenneth Paul on May 12, 1951. Through the years Beulah acquired a passion for the great outdoors. She enjoyed fishing, her many flower beds, gardening and her “pride and joy”, her strawberry bed where she spent many, many hours caring and weeding the bed. She spent most of the summers mowing her big yard on her 8 H.P. wheel horse riding lawn mower. Beulah also loved to make quilts of many colors but her greatest love of all was when she became “Grandma”. Grandma Jane spent many hours with her six granddaughters spoiling and teaching them all she could. During one of her many baking sessions the question was asked which comes first, the chicken or the egg? Grandma’s answer was the chicken, so from that point on Grandma collected tons of chickens in all shapes and sizes and displayed them in her kitchen. As more years went by Grandma Jane earned the beloved title of “Great-grandma”. In July of 2007, Beulah suffered a stroke and fought with many set backs and complications. On February 7th, 2010, God called Beulah home at the age of 83 years, 9 months and 7 days with Sue, Kelli, Mark, Kris, Knicy Paul and Koli J. by her side in New Sharon, Iowa. Those left to cherish her memory is one daughter, Susan F. Kersbergen, presently of New Sharon; 6 granddaughters, 8 great-grandchildren and 3 step-great-grandchildren. They are:Kelli Renae and Mark Doty of New Sharon, Iowa,Kristopher Ryan Chamberlain, Knicolas, Paul Chamberlain,Kalleen Jordan Chamberlain,Bret Allen, Nicole Jean and Jacob Allen Doty; Brenda Joy and Gary Dabb of Pleasantville, Iowa; Sherrie Lynn and Stephen Kelly of Ripon, California,Liam Michael Kelly; Jolene Marie and Brian Veach of Urbandale, Iowa; Esther Ann and Brett Trotter of Ames, Iowa,Kieran Trotter;Evelyn Amber Van Hal of Knoxville, Iowa,Olivia Jane Van Hal, Ethan James Van Hal,Mackenzie Van Hal. Of Beulah’s original family she leaves her sister, Dorothy and her husband, Dale Lund of Slater, Iowa, her brother, Marion Van De Wall and his wife, Beverly, of Pleasant Hill, Iowa; two sisters-in-law, Anna Pauline (Groenendyk) Nikkel and Thelma Hazel(Dutch) Groenendyk both of Tracy, Iowa; along with many nieces and nephews. Those waiting for her in heaven are her parents, Peter and Gertrude Van De Wall; her parents-in-law, Eldert and Sarah Johnson Groenendyk; her husband, Charley Paul (Bud) Groenendyk; her son, Kenneth Paul, her daughter Betty Jane and her husband, Edward Arthur Van Hal; her sister, Bernice and her husband, Cecil Aldrich; and two brothers-in-law, Willem Harlan (Dutch) Groenendyk and Albert H. Nikkel.

RUA VANDER LINDEN
Rua Anita Alban Vander Linden, 78, of Pella, died Feb. 4. Funeral services were Mon. Feb. 8, 11:00 a.m. at Second reformed Church in Pella. Memorials may be designated for Second Reformed Church or Pella Regional Health Center. Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home

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.

MAXINE MUFFMAN
Dr. Maxine C. Fish Huffman, 81, of Pella, died Feb. 10. An informal gathering will be Sunday, Feb. 28, 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Graham Conference Center at Central College in Pela. There will be no formal visitation or services. Memorials may be designated for Central College.

Maxine Corrine Fish was the only daughter born to Dr. J William Fish and Nellie L Fish in Decatur Illinois. She and her brother, William, were later joined by brothers John and Lance.

Maxine finished her formal schooling in the public schools in Decatur before pursuing a BS in Biology at Millikin University in Decatur. It was at Pittsburg State University (Kansas State Teachers College) as a graduate instructor in Biology that she met Don. Don and Maxine were married on March 21, 1953.

Maxine graduated in 1953 with a Ph.D. in Botany from Kansas State University in Manhattan Kansas, and took a job teaching Biology at Central College in Pella Iowa. During Maxine’s initial teaching at Central, Don was pursuing a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology at Iowa State University. Upon Don’s completion of his Ph.D. in 1955, Don and Maxine looked to find a job to teach biology together, but President VanderLugt talked Maxine into pursuing a second doctorate in English. Maxine and Don spent two years in New York City at Columbia University as Maxine completed doctoral work for an Ed.D. in English. She returned to Central to teach English for the remainder of her career, serving 43 teaching years at Central College until her retirement in 1996.

In 1971, they adopted a one year old daughter, Kimberley, who was born in South Korea. She was joined in 1975 by a brother, James, also adopted from South Korea.

Maxine and Don traveled extensively throughout the United States, Central America and Europe in the early years of their marriage. They were an integral part in starting the Central College Abroad programs in Merida Yucatan, Mexico and in Hangzhou, China.

In the years following their retirement, Maxine and Don became involved with writing and editing text books for use in universities in China. The most recent book, Inside US Culture and Life, is a compilation of blogs written by Maxine and Don, (with help from family and friends) and was published in China in November.

In 2008, Don and Maxine were both conferred Doctor of Humane Letters by Central College.

On Wednesday, February 3, Maxine passed away at the Comfort House of Pella. She had formerly been a patient at the Skilled Care Unit of the Pella Regional Health Center for four weeks.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. J William Fish and Nellie L Fish and her brother William.

Maxine is survived by her husband Don and daughter Kimberley, both of Pella, a son, James, of Pleasant Hill, and granddaughter, Cassandra and her mother Laura, of Bettendorf; a sister-in-law, Beverly, of Rochester, Indiana and her family; a brother, John, of Raleigh, North Carolina and his family and a brother, Lance, of Des Moines Iowa and his family as well as many Huffman brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

She also leaves countless friends and colleagues both in Pella and all over the world, former students, numerous Chinese “daughters”, as well as an honorary daughter, Dr. Yewoubdar Beyene, of San Francisco,California, and an honorary granddaughter, Kathy Li, of Pensacola, Florida.

Maxine enjoyed knitting, reading, crossword puzzles and finding an opportunity to teach at any given moment!

LUTHER H. CASTER, JR.
Luther H. Caster, Jr., 81, of Moravia died Jan. 29 in Newton. The Pella visitation will begin at noon on Tuesday, Feb. 2, with family present from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. The Moravia visitation will be Wed., Feb. 3 from 10-11:00 a.m. at the Church of the Nazarene in Moravia. Inetrment will be Wed., Feb. 3, 11:30 a.m. at Hillcrest Cemetery in Moravia. A luncheon will follow at the church of the Nazarene. memorials may be designated for Hospice of Jasper County.

Luther Harmon Caster, Jr., age 81, passed away on Friday, January 29, 2010, at the Skiff Medical Center-Monarch Unit. Luther was born on August 15, 1928, to Luther and Mary Ethel Hellyer Caster near Chugwater, Wyoming in Laramie County. He moved to Moravia, Iowa with his parents in 1940, and graduated from the Moravia High School with the class of 1946.

Luther worked for the Maytag Corporation a short time before enlisting in the US Navy on August 17, 1950. He was involved in the Korean Conflict aboard the USS Kishwaukee and the USS Arepuipa. Luther was Honorably Discharged from the Navy on June 14, 1954. He then returned to work at Maytag as a tool and die maker for 36 years.

Luther was united in marriage with Lois Jean Scott on September 29, 1956 in Moravia. Luther and Lois raised three children together: Pamela Jean, Mary Catherine, and Jo Ann.

Luther was a talented gardener who loved to share his produce with his friends and family. He also was a self-taught gemcutter and jeweler. He cut faceted gems and rocks and made many rings, necklaces, and pocketknives for those he loved. In his younger days, Luther enjoyed hunting and fishing, for which he made his own lures. Luther also was a member of the Moravia Historical Society, and he worked at the annual open rail car excursion many years.

Luther is survived by his daughter, Mary Catherine (Warren) Vander Leest of Sully; daughter Jo Ann (John) Wynn of Charles Town, West Virginia; step-daughter Pam Cyrene of Ipswhich, Massachusetts; seven grandchildren: Justin Vander Leest, Angela (Mark) Van Roekel, Megan Wallace and her fiance Chad, Rob Wallace, Matt Wynn, Chelle Wynn, and Nicole (Mitch) Bricker; and five great-grandchildren: Alicia, Travis, Ben, Tom, and Joshua Bricker.

Luther is preceded in death by his parents, his wife in 2008, his sister Osa Engelker, and his brothers Cecil, Wayne, Clyde, Floyd, Wrex, Raymond, and James.

Luther will be remembered as a loving father and friend, and will be missed by many.

FAMILY
Daughters: Mary (Warren) Vander Leest – Sully, Iowa
Jo (John) Wynn – Charles Town, West Virginia
Pam Cyrene – Ipswich, Massachusetts

ROLAND H. EYSINK
Roland H. Eysink, 77, of Pella, died Jan. 31. Funeral services will be Thursday, Feb. 4, 10:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Pella. Visitation will begin at noon on Wed., Feb. 3, with family present from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Garden chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Memorials may be designated to Hospice of Pella.

Roland Harris Eysink was born June 19, 1932, on the family farm in the Sandridge neighborhood to Gerrit and Rosetta Huyser Eysink. He passed away at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House on Sunday, January 31, 2010, at the age of seventy-seven.

He received his early education at the Sandridge Country School and later graduated from Pella Community High School with the class of 1950.

On November 16, 1956, Roland was united in marriage with Ruth De Zwarte in Pella. They were blessed with two children: Stan and Sheryl. Roland and Ruth farmed for many years. Later Roland was employed at Ring-O-Matic and Tri-County Vet Clinic.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Pella. He was also a member of the Marion County Cattleman's Association and Red Rock Threshers. Roland was an avid sports fan who faithfully followed Pella Community School sporting events, and was a 4-H Club leader for many years.

Roland is survived by his wife Ruth; his children and their spouses: Stan and Carla Eysink and Sheryl and Terry England all of Pella; two grandchildren: Lance Eysink of Pella and Kelly Johnson and her husband Curtis of Webster City; one sister and her husband: Lois and Bernard Van Zante of Otley.

Roland was preceded in death by: his parents, Gerrit and Rosetta Eysink; his nephew, Phil Van Zante; and his parents-in-law, Henry and Dorothy De Zwarte.

Roland enjoyed camping, especially at the Iowa State Fair, cooking with the Cattleman's Association, traveling, and morning coffee at the local establishments.

FAMILY
Wife: Ruth Eysink - Pella, Iowa
Son: Stan (Carla) Eysink - Pella, Iowa
Daughter: Sheryl (Terry) England - Pella, Iowa
Grandchildren: Kelly (Curtis) Johnson - Webster City, Iowa
Lance Eysink - Pella, Iowa

JANET VAN WAARDHUIZEN
Janet Van Waardhuizen, 90, of Pella, died Jan. 24. Funeral services will be Fri., Jan. 29, 1:30 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. on Fri., Jan 29, with family present from 12:30 until services at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Memorials may be designated to Trinity Reformed Church in Pella, or the American Heart Association.

Janet Menninga Van Waardhuizen, age 90, passed away January 24, 2010, at the Knoxville Hospital. Janet was born on June 20, 1919, to John S. and Margaret Den Burger Menninga in rural Marion County, Iowa, near the Bethel neighborhood. She attended the Battle Ridge country school through the eighth grade.

Janet was united in marriage with Arie Jr. Van Waardhuizen on February 27, 1953, at the parsonage of the First Reformed Church in Pella.? To this union, a child was born: Glenda.

Janet was a charter member of the Trinity Reformed Church in Pella, and was active with the Hope Circle. Before that, she was a member of the First Reformed Church in Pella. Janet enjoyed helping her husband with their grinding business as well as embroidery.

Janet is survived by her daughter, Glenda; her brothers: Vernon and Margaret Menninga of Pella, and Arvin and Betty Menninga of Pella; sister-in-law Ruth and Melvin Dykstra of Otley; brother-in-law Ervin and Carolyn Van Waardhuizen of Kilduff; and many nieces and nephews.

Janet is preceded in death by her husband Arie on January 30, 1996; her parents; her parents-in-law; sister-in-law Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Swank; and her brother-in-law Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Van Waardhuizen.

REV. HENRY VERMEER
Rev. Henry J. Vermeer, 96, of Pella, died Jan. 24. Funeral services will be Thurs., Jan. 28, 6:30 p.m. at First Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation will begin Thursday morning at the church, with family present from 3-5:00 p.m. Fuenral/committal services will be held Sat., Jan. 30 in Hull, Iowa. Memorials may be designated for the Rev. Henry J. and Alberta Vermeer Scholarship Fund at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, MI, Hospice of Pella Comfort House, of KCWN Christian radio station. Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home

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”.

DORIS GEELS
Doris Jansen Geels, 77, died Jan. 23. Funeral services will be Wed., Jan. 27, 1:30 p.m. at Sully Christian reformed Church in Sully. Visitation will begin Tuesday afternoon at the church with family present from 5-7 p.m. Memorials may be designated for the The Back to God Hour radio ministry broadcast or to Hospice of Pella. Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home

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.

EDWIN BUWALDA
Edwin (Ed) Paul Buwalda, 77, of Pella died Jan. 6. Funeral services will be Monday, Jan. 18, 10:30 a.m. at the Open Bible Church in Pella. Merle Hay Funeral Home, Des Moines.

Edwin (Ed) Paul Buwalda, 77, died on Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at his home. He was born on March 9, 1932 to Andrew and Anna Buwalda.

Ed graduated from Pella High School in 1950. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954 in the 558th MP Company as a military police officer during the Korean War and returned to Pella after being honorably discharged. He was married to Jean Dodge in September 1956 and divorced from her in 1971. He then remarried to Mary Lucas in June 1978 and divorced from her in 1999. He worked for Vermeer Manufacturing for 38 years as a machinist and a welder. Ed was a devout Christian and a member of the Open Bible Church for most of his life after returning to Pella. He was an avid fisherman and loved to take fishing trips, including many trips made to Canada. Ed is survived by his son, Gregg; daughter, Lisa; sisters, Margaret and Aldora; grandsons, Nathan and Nicholas Buwalda; and cousin Alice Ver Dught. Ed is remembered by his close friends Arie Ver Dught and Joann and Roger Pfadenhauer. He is preceded in passing by his parents and his sister Lucile. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, January 18, 2010 at Open Bible Church in Pella, with burial following at Oakwood Cemetery in Pella.

Reader responses to this Merle Hay Funeral Home obituary include:

To the writing of Ed Buwalda's obituary his sister Wilma (Buwalda) Eilander preceded him in death.

Ed also had a sister who died on Dec. 7, 2003 in Newton. She was Wilma Buwalda Eilander.

ABRAHAM DEZWARTE
Abraham DeZwarte, 96, of Pella, died January 12. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 15 at Covenant Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation begins at noon on Thurs., Jan. 14, with family present from 6-8 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Memorials may be designated to Covenant Reformed Church or Hospice of Pella.

Abraham (Abe) De Zwarte was born March 25, 1913, to Marinus and Jennie Goemaat De Zwarte south of Pella. He received his early education at the Pella Christian Grade School.

On May 9, 1934, Abraham was united in marriage with Jacoba Van Oenen at the First Christian Reformed Church parsonage in Pella. To this union four children were born: Marvin, Marilyn, Connie, and Linda.

They made their home on the farm south of Pella for over twenty years.? n 1953 he began working at the Pella Canning Company, retiring in 1987.

Abe was currently a member of the Covenant Reformed Church in Pella. His family was a very important part of his life and enjoyed visiting and spending time with them. He also enjoyed boating, bowling, cooking, and baking. He had a special passion for his cats.

Abe is survived by his four children and their spouses: Marvin and Mary De Zwarte of Pella, Marilyn and Gerald Van Sant of Tracy, Connie and Jerry Rowe of Pella, and Linda and Pat Brown of Knoxville; thirteen grandchildren; twenty-seven great-grandchildren; fourteen great-great-grandchildren; and his sister-in-law, Cornelia Vander Ploeg of Otley.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jacoba, on January 23, 2004; and one brother, Henry M. De Zwarte and his wife, Dorothy.

MARJORIE SNELLER
Marjorie Sneller, 81, of Pella, died Jan. 7. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Jan. 12, 11:00 a.m. at Covenant Refomed Church in Pella. Visitation begins on Monday, Jan. 11 with family present from 6-8 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Memorials may be designated dto Pela Christian Grade School or the Covenant Reformed Church Tuition Assistance. Interment will be at 10 a.m. on Jan. 12 at Oakwood Cemetery in Pella.

Marjorie Sneller was born on September 27, 1928, to Gerrit A. and Katherine Vander Wiel Klyn near Otley, Iowa. She was the sixth child in her family of thirteen. She received her early education at the Fifield Country School, graduating from the eighth grade. She was employed at the Oskaloosa Overall Factory, but when her mother died she quit her job so she could stay home and help raise her brothers.

On January 5, 1951 Marjorie was united in marriage with Arthur Sneller at the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella. To this union three children were born: Allen, Mary, and Brenda.

Marjorie grew up in the First Christian Reformed Church in Pella and later became a member of the Pella Covenant Reformed Church. She was a member of the Ladies Aid. Marjorie enjoyed fishing with family, camping, and cooking Sunday dinners. She was very family oriented and loved to spend time with her siblings and grandchildren. She had a kind, gentle spirit.

Marjorie was employed at the Pella Overall Factory for a number of years, worked at Heritage Lace, and did housekeeping with her sister-in-law, Bernice Sneller, in various homes in the Pella area.

She passed away unexpectedly at her home on Thursday, January 7, 2010, at the age of eighty-one.

Those left to cherish her memory are: her husband, Art, who she faithfully visited daily in the Long Term care unit at the Pella Regional Health Center; her three children: Allen (Doreen) Sneller of Indianola; Mary (Calvin) Van Haaften of Pella, and Brenda (Roger) Witzenburg of Pella; her brothers: Arthur Klyn, Raymond (Lois) Klyn, Marion (Glenda) Klyn, Sidney (Mary) Klyn, Lawrence (Valda) Klyn, Lester (Linda) Klyn all of Pella, John (Lois) Klyn of New Sharon. Marvin (Phyllis) Klyn of Michigan; her sister, Sylvia Langstraat of Pella; sisters-in-law, Labertha Vander Schel of Newton and Bernice (Tootie) Sneller of Pella; and a host of relatives and friends.

Marjorie was preceded in death by: her parents; brother Kenneth in infancy; sister Ruth Vander Wall, brother Gerald Klyn, and several in-laws.

Family:

Husband: Art Sneller - Pella, Iowa

Allen and Doreen Sneller - Indianola, Iowa
Sharla and Bob Eschliman
Hanna and Jayden Eschliman
Sheila and Curt Graham
Andy, Brandon, and Cody Graham
Brad Willis
Lilly Willis
Jessie Willis
Trent Willis
Kyle Willis

Mary and Calvin Van Haaften - Pella, Iowa
Crystal and Dan Schreur
Robby Schreur
Carissa and Zach Vander Linden
Hunter and Tyson Vander Linden
Joseph Van Haaften

JUNELLA VANDER LINDEN
Junella Vander Linden, 87, formerly of Pella, died Jan. 5. Funeral services will be Sat., Jan. 9, 10:30 a.m. at Third Reformed Church in Pella. Visitation will begin Fri., Jan. 8, at 3 p.m. with family present from 6-8 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Memorials may be designated to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Palliative Care Unit or the American heart Association.

Junella Fern Vander Linden, 87, passed away January 5, 2010, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City. Junella was born on August 7, 1922, to David and Sophia (Walraven) Grandia on a farm near Leighton, Iowa. She attended school and took normal training in Oskaloosa, after which she began teaching in rural country schools.

Junella taught school for several years before and after her marriage to Andrew Vander Linden on June 24, 1949 at the Ebenezer Reformed Church in Leighton. To their union were born two sons: Stanley and Howard. After marriage Andy and Junella lived in Peoria, Iowa, and then farmed south of Pella for a few years. They later moved into Pella when Andy began his career at Vermeer Manufacturing.

Over the years, Junella held part-time jobs at Jaarsma Bakery and at Central College, but she was primarily a homemaker and mother.

She is survived by her sons, Stan, who resides and teaches school in Guatemala City, Guatemala, and Howard (wife Cheryl), of Earlham, Iowa; grandchildren Matt of Chicago, Chris of Ankeny, and Derek and Aislinn of Earlham; brothers-and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

Junella is preceded in death by her parents; her husband Andy on June 15, 2000; sister Hazel Den Adel; and brother Edgar Grandia.

DALE D. RANDOL
Dale D. Randol, 84, of Pella, died Dec. 31. Funeral services will be Tues., Jan. 5 at 1 p.m. at Pella Church of the Nazarene. Visitation with family present will be Monday from 5-7 at Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home. Memorials may be designated for the Gideon's.

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.

CLARENCE L. VAN STEENIS
Clarence L. Van Steenis, 93, of Pella, died Jan. 3. Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 8, 10:30 a.m. at Heartland Reformed Church in Pella. Visiotation will begin Thurs., Jan. 7 from 11-3 at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Visitation with family will be from 5-7 Thursday at the Church. Memorials may be designated for Heartland Reformed Church or Hospice of Pella.

Clarence William Van Steenis was born on June 13, 1916, at rural Knoxville near Flagler. He was the only child of Huber and Minnie Slot Van Steenis.

He received his eighth grade education by the age of eleven at the Flagler Country School. He then began his lifetime occupation as a farmer.

On October 20, 1938, Clarence was united in marriage to Engelyn (Angie) Van Ringelstein at the Third Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa.

They lived in the Flagler area until 1946, when they moved to a farm near Fremont for one year and then returned to the Flagler area.

In 1956 they moved to a farm north of Pella. They sold the farm which later became the site of the Christian Opportunity Center and Park View housing development. Clarence continued to farm ground near Otley, Monroe, and Knoxville until 2008. In 2000 he and Engelyn moved to a duplex at 1000 West 4th Street in Pella.

Clarence was a life-long member of the Third Reformed Church until eighteen years ago when he became a charter member of the Heartland Reformed Church in Pella.

For many years he was a seed corn dealer, first selling Funk's G Hybrids and later Moews.

Clarence and Angie took several bus tours visiting many parts of the United States and Canada. He and Angie also spent three weeks in Holland visiting relatives. His favorite spot to go was the farm.

He loved to sing and the hymns were always his favorite. Many times he chose a special one to sing as a witness of his faith at special events.

On November 13, 2008, he became a resident of the Pella Regional Health Center - Long Term Care. He passed away on Sunday, January 3, 2010, at the age of ninety-three.

Clarence is survived by his wife; four children and their spouses; thirteen grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Arie and Carolyn Ringelstein; and many nieces and nephews.

Family:
Wife: Engelyn Van Steenis

Marsha and Harold Jackson
Eric Jackson
Whitney and Alssya Jackson
Todd and Julie Jackson
Kaylee and Nicole Jackson
Bret and Teri Jackson
Jack Jackson

Judy and Rodney De Vries
Kevin R. De Vries
Ryan K. De Vries

Carleton and Mary Van Steenis
Melinda and Sid Blommers
Isla Blommers
Jonathan Van Steenis
David and Andrea Van Steenis

Terry and Nancy Van Steenis
Marla and Peter Bruins
Emily and Tyler Bruins
Lora and Scott Van Essen
Luke and Caleb Van Essen
Kathy Van Steenis
Sandra Van Steenis
Clint and Heather Van Steenis

HARRY VAN WAARDHUIZEN
Harrry Van Waardhuizen, 92, of Monroe, formerly of Pella, died Jan. 2. Funeral services will be Wed., Jan. 6, 10:00 a.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Pella. Visitation begins at noon on Tuesd., Jan. 5 with family present from 2-4 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Memorials may be designated for the Monroe EMT

Harry Van Waardhuizen was born on May 19, 1917, to William and Anna Henrietta (Vande Kieft) Van Waardhuizen near Otley, Iowa. He received his early education at the Liberty Corner Country School near Otley, Iowa.

On September 4, 1941, he was united in marriage with Cleora Carpenter at the home of her parents near Reasnor, Iowa. To this union two children were born: Phyllis and Robert.

Harry and Cleora farmed in the Reasnor area for fifty years, retiring in 1991. In 1985 they moved to Monroe and spent their winters in Texas and Arizona. They enjoyed travelling, square dancing, playing cards, and socializing with their extended circle of friends. They felt truly blessed having grandchildren and later great-grandchildren and enjoyed the time they spent with them.

Harry is survived by his two children and their spouses: Phyllis and John Thomas of Natchitoches, Louisiana, and Robert and Sue Van Waardhuizen of Pella; six grandchildren: Lanell and Randy Hill, Kelly Thomas, Susan and Rob English, Leigh and Dak Rasmussen, Lauren Van Waardhuizen, and Michael and Samantha Van Waardhuizen; nine great-grandchildren; and his brother, Art Van Waardhuizen.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, William and Anna Van Waardhuizen; wife, Cleora in 2009; parents-in-law, Jesse and Sophia Carpenter; and brother, Albert Van Waardhuizen.

Harry will always be remembered for his strength of character and his deep love for his family.

DAVID "COACH BENDER" BENDER
David Bender, 74, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 12, 2009 in Surprise, Arizona. He had learned to live with Parkinson's Disease and its extreme adversities; and, the last three months of his life he'd made extensive progress and was truly enjoying life once again. Left to cherish his memory are his two children and their families, Jay (Bobbie) and their children, Curtis (Hannah), Craig (Hillary), Layla and Rose; and, Ashley; Janelle and her children, Cedric, Halle, Makenna and Jada. His only sister, Jackie (Jim Clark) and several nieces and nephews, all of Phoenix, Arizona; and, his life-long friend, Dee Bender Helm. His Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, January 23, 2010 at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church in Pella, Iowa. PLEASE, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated to the Pella High School Athletic Department.