- Vader Hendrik is NH en woont - 1877-92 Bennekom 259, 23-7-1892 VSA.
VAN ROEKEL, HENRY C. AND ALLIE (VANDER PLOEG)
Henry C. Van Roekel was born July 17, 1877 in Bennekom, Netherlands, to parents Cornelius and Gerritje (Veldhuizen) Van Roekel. They all immigrated to the U.S.A. on July 23, 1892. The first house they lived in stood where the education building of the First Reformed Church of Sioux Center now stands. Henry's first job was working on the farm of William C. Hulstein located 3 1/2 miles northwest of Sioux Center.
On March 22,1904 he married Allie Vander Ploeg, daughter of Tjasse Willem and Taaktje (Valk) Vander Ploeg, who came to the U.S.A. from the Netherlands on May 12, 1881. Allie was born in Sioux Center on August 7, 1882. Her parents were in the funeral business, furniture sales, and some carpenter work. Allie helped her parents build caskets for the funeral business.
After their marriage they moved to a farm 3 1/2 miles southwest of Sioux Center, living there for a year or two. They then moved to a farm 4 1/2 miles southwest of Sioux Center where they lived until they retired in the town of Sioux Center in 1945.
Henry C. and Allie (Vander Ploeg) Van Roekel
Twelve children were born to this marriage. Neal, the first son, remembers the long hours the parents worked, never having electricity, indoor plumbing, running water or modern conveniences. He remembers that his parents never complained, and they appreciated their landowners treating them fairly and kindly. As the children grew up each had their own jobs to do. After school the younger ones went to the hog yard to pick up the cobs for burning in the stoves used for cooking and heating. Kerosene and gas lamps had to be filled and lamp chimneys washed.
The farm work was done with horse power, and the corn picked by hand and often in very cold weather. All had a hot breakfast before going out to the field, including lots of fresh, warm milk directly from the barn. At the end of the day the corn would be scooped off the wagon on a pile or into a crib. Later there was an elevator used. Two horses drove the "horse power" which elevated the corn into the cribs. Much excitement was had when the horses would go on the run away!
The older children attended Hope Christian School just a half mile south of the farm home. Students came from a radius of 3 ½ - 4 miles, either walking to school or with horse and buggy. Each family paid whatever they could. The school was started by the Christian Reformed Church, and the average number attending was about 25, with the Van Roekels having four. Then hard times came and in 1925 the school was forced to close. After that the children attended two different rural schools.
During the summer neighbors worked together for the threshing of oats and when it was finished everyone packed a dinner and spent the day together, usually on the school grounds. It was a real treat when someone provided ice cream for all. Another picnic time was the annual family reunions, which were an all-day affair. There was always visiting back and forth with neighbors; all would go and everyone had a good time.
Family laundry was a long, hard task. All water had to be carried with buckets from an outdoor pump, put into a boiler on the wood burning stove, and heated until boiling. Then it was dipped out again into the washing machine. The older children remember using a scrub board. The first washing machine used "dog power". Polly, the dog, had to be caught and tied up on Sunday night because otherwise on Monday morning she could not be found to do the walk for washing.
Most all the food came from the farm. Animals were butchered on the farm with help from the neighbors. The women canned all the meat, taking several days. After all the steaming of the meat was done, all the walls had to be washed. There was always a large garden and many potatoes were grown; a lot of vegetables and fruits were canned. Several times a week many large loaves of bread were baked. We always had our own eggs, milk and cream, and no one remembers ever going hungry.
On Sunday everyone went to church with a horse and buggy, or a bob sleigh in winter. In 1920 Henry bought his first car, an Overland, for $600. There was only one car until the oldest boys bought their own.
The year 1916 was a sad year. Following is a part of the article that appeared in the local newspaper, translated from the Dutch: "May, 1916: The household of Mr. & Mrs. Henry Van Roekel is passing through a way of grave testing. We have to announce the death of the l0-year-old daughter Fannie. The little girl became sick last week with spinal meningitis, complicated with brain fever. Tuesday morning she passed away. The 12-year-old son (Neal) having had a serious accident being kicked by a horse, is not out of danger, and on top of this he bas gotten the measles. Besides this the family was increased in the beginning of the week (John). May the Lord be near to them in these days of suffering."
Henry served as a deacon and elder in the First Reformed Church, he served as a county road boss, and also on the board of the Co-op. Produce. Allie sewed a lot of blankets and clothes, beside all the cleaning, baking and canning. She was a member of the Senior Ladies Missionary Society of the First Reformed Church, serving as its treasurer for many years.
Henry and Allie ware married for 61 years; Allie died Dec. 15, 1965 and Henry died August 22, 1969. They were the parents of the following children: Neal of Sioux Center, Fannie died in 1916, Garret of Sioux Center, Tena Sneller of Sioux Center, Carrie Franken of Sioux Center, Tony of Sioux Center who died in 1989, John William of Orange City, Henry Allen of Sioux Center, Fannie Sneller of Clarkfield, Minnesota, Cynthia Van Regenmorter of Sioux Center, Harriet Meendering of Sioux Center, and Ellen Lorene of Sioux Center.
by Harriet Meendering
Gerrit A. and Carrie Franken
FRANKEN, GERRIT A. AND CARRIE (VAN ROEKEL)
Gerrit A. Franken was born october 27, 1897 at Sioux Center, and Carrie Van Roekel was born May 16, 1912 at Sioux Center to Henry C. and Allie (VanDer Ploeg) Van Roekel.
Carrie attended eight years of schooling in a rural Hope Christian School just a half mile south of the farm place. She helped with the farm chores and during corn picking time she helped milk the cows while the boys harnessed the horses end got everything ready to go to the corn field. Then she would go with them to the field to pick corn by hand; oftentimes they would pick 100 bushels a day. She also worked out as a hired girl.
In 1943 she decided to go to California end worked in the Artesia and Bellflower area for seven years. She then came back to Sioux Center, and on November 28, 1951 married Gerrit Franken in the parsonage of the First Reformed Church with the Rev. Peter A. De Jong officiating.
Gerrit was a farmer end after moving to the town of Sioux Center he worked as a mechanic at a local implement repair shop, and later as caretaker of the city park. Carrie continues to do some janitorial duties a few hours a week.
Gerrit passed away on April 29, 1984 at Sioux Center at the age of 86 years.
by Ellen Van Roekel
Ellen Van Roekel
VAN ROEKEL, ELLEN
Ellen Lorene Van Roekel was born on November 30, 1928 on a farm four miles west and one-half mile south of Sioux Center, to Henry C. and Allie (Vander Ploeg) Van Roekel, being the youngest of twelve children.
Growing up on the farm was lots of fun. We made our own fun by making playhouses in the grove, making lots of mud pies, playing in the hay mow, swinging on sack swings, and playing with small farm animals. We had to help feed the chickens and pick up cobs and wood for the kitchen cook stove. After supper we would make a large pan full of popcorn and sit outside on the lawn to eat it, watching and waiting for the first star to appear.
I attended eight years of elementary school in two different country schools. There were between 20 and 30 students in the one room school houses, with all eight grades and one teacher, and everyone received a good education. We had to go to the Sioux County Court House to get our 8th grade diploma. After this I had four years of high school at the Sioux Center Public High School, graduating in 1946.
In 1945 I moved to the town of Sioux Center with my parents and worked in a grocery store and in a furniture store. Then in 1948 I went to California to work and lived there with my sister. But California was not for me, and after six months I came back home to Sioux Center, and started working as a secretary at the Te Paske Law Office where I worked for 37 years. Over the years I took a number of vacation trips, usually by car, bus or train tours to different scenic parts of the United States and Canada. At present I am doing some part-time work at an insurance agency, and still have time to do some of the things I enjoy doing.
by Ellen Van Roekel
Between 1st & 2nd E-W roads, row 3 west of east entry road.
Allie 1882-1965 Henry 1878-1969:
MRS. HENRY VAN ROEKEL (Allie)
Born: August 7, 1882, Sioux Center, Iowa
Died: December 15, 1965, Sioux Center, Iowa
Services at the Vander Ploeg's Chapel at 1:00 and 1:30 at First Reformed Church Burial in Sioux Center Community Cemetery December 18, 1965. Mrs. Henry Van Roekel, nee Allie Vander Ploeg, passed away Wednesday afternoon. She had reached the age of 83 years. 4 months and 8 days. Mrs. Van Roekel was united in marriage to Henry Van Roekel on March 22, 1904, at Sioux Center.
She is survived by her husband and the following children: Neal, Gerrit, Tena (Mrs. Henry Sneller), Carrie (Mrs. Gerrit Franken), all of Sioux Center, Tony of Ireton. John of Orange City, Henry of Maurice, Fannie (Mrs. Ed Sneller) of Hazel Run, Minn., Cynthia (Mrs. Henry Van Regenmorter) of Orange City, Harriet (Mrs. Albert Meendering) and Ellen of Sioux Center. She is also survived by 31 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. John Rozeboom of Steen, Minn., Nick Vander Ploeg of Sioux Center, Charles Vander Ploeg of Orange City, Mrs. Gerrit Huitink of Orange City, John of Yucipa, Calif., Mrs. Rev. Ray Lubbers of Orange City, Mrs. Dick Raak and Mrs. Tunis Den Herder of Sioux Center.
One daughter, Fannie, preceded her in death on May 8, 1916, and two brothers and one sister preceded her in death.
Vander Ploeg's Funeral Home, Sioux Center.
Funeral services for Henry Van Roekel, Sr., 91, were held August 26 at the First Reformed church in Sioux Center. Burial was in the Sioux Center Community Cemetery.
Mr. Van Roekel was born July 17, 1878, in The Netherlands. He came to the United States at the age of 13. He married Allie Vander Ploeg March 22, 1904, at Sioux Center. She died December 15, 1965.
Survivors include five sons, Tony of Ireton, Neal, Gerrit and Henry, all of Sioux Center, and John of Orange City; six daughters, Mrs. Henry Sneller, Mrs. Gerrit Franken, Mrs. Al Meendering, and Miss Ellen Van Roekel all of Sioux Center, Mrs. Henry Van Regenmorter of Orange City, Mrs. Ed Sneller of Hazel Run, Minnesota; Two sisters, Miss Ellen Van Roekel, Mrs. Hattie Kroon, both of Sioux Center; 31 grandchildren 31 great-grand children.
Hawarden Independent 1969-08-28.
Gerrit A. Franken, 86, Sioux Center, died Sunday at a Sioux Center hospital after a short illness. Services were at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at First Christian Reformed Church. The Rev. John Hellinga officiated. Burial was in Memory Gardens Cemetery. Family visitations was from 7 to 8 p.m. at the.Vander Ploeg Chapel.
Mr. Franken was born Oct. 27, 1897, at Sioux Center. He married Nellie Brantsen in March 1918. She died Oct. 5, 1950. He then married Carrie Van Roekel in November 1951.
Survivors include his wife; a halfsister, Mrs. Lewis Wierda, Morris; three half-brothers, Henry and Joe Franken, both of Sioux Center, and Everette Franken, Redlands, Calif.; and a step-brother, E.J. Kosters, Sioux Center.
Sioux Center News 1984-05-09.
Funeral services for Henry Van Roekel, Sr., 91, were held August 26 at the First Reformed church in Sioux Center. Burial was in the Sioux Center Community Cemetery.
Mr. Van Roekel was born July 17, 1878, in The Netherlands. He came to the United States at the age of 13. He married Allie Vander Ploeg March 22, 1904, at Sioux Center. She died December 15, 1965.
Survivors include five sons, Tony of Ireton, Neal, Gerrit and Henry, all of Sioux Center, and John of Orange City; six daughters, Mrs. Henry Sneller, Mrs. Gerrit Franken, Mrs. Al Meendering, and Miss Ellen Van Roekel all of Sioux Center, Mrs. Henry Van Regenmorter of Orange City, Mrs. Ed Sneller of Hazel Run, Minnesota; Two sisters, Miss Ellen Van Roekel, Mrs. Hattie Kroon, both of Sioux Center; 31 grandchildren 31 great-grand children.
Hawarden Independent 1969-08-28.
VAN ROEKEL, JOHN W. AND ALDINE VERMEER
John W. Van Roekel was born May 16,1916 on the farm four miles west and one-half south of Old Town Sioux Center. He attended the country school - part of the time at the Christian School and part of the time at the public country school. The Christian School being open only when there were enough students and patrons to warrant a teacher. He graduated from the eighth grade. After that it was time to work, often hiring out to area farmers or helping at home.
Corn picking by hand was one task he really disliked. One time while picking with three at a wagon, the outside picker got a little carried away and sure enough he got hit in the head with an ear of corn. As if things weren't bad enough.
It was a dark rainy day the eighth of March, 1940 when John and Aldine Vermeer were married by Rev. Brunsting of the First Reformed Church, Sioux Center, Iowa. Aldine was the daughter of Evert Vermeer and Alida (see E. Vermeer story).
L-R Back row: Jerris, Willis; Middle row: Orville, Marlene, Elwin; Front row: John, Aldine,
Harlan
We farmed in the Sioux Center area for a few years and in March, 1955 we moved to a farm near Orange City, Iowa. We lived on that farm for24 years and in 1969 we had a farm sale and moved to Orange City. John drove school bus for 12 years and I worked as a secretary at Northwestern College for 15 years. We are retired now.
One hot windy morning in July of 1952, we ware shocked to hear the cries of the children while we ware in the barn milking, "fire, fire." The four older ones who were sleeping upstairs were awakened by smoke. Elwin kicked the screen out and let Marlene and Willis down as far as he could and John caught them; then he jumped. Harlan didn't wait for anyone, he jumped before John could catch him. I ran around the front of the house and got Orville from the downstairs bedroom. All we saved was the clothes and furniture from the down stairs bedroom.
To this union eight children ware born: (two passed away at birth) The others all graduated from the Maurice-Orange City High School. Only additional education will be noted.
Elwin married Sharon Buckley of Denver. They have two sons. Elwin is a
self-employed electrician in Denver and Sharon works as a bookkeeper.
Harlan married Janice Vande Griend. They have two sons and a daughter and
one grandson. They farm north and west of Orange City and Janice works at
K-Products in Orange City.
Marlene married Robert De Geest. They have a son and a daughter. They live in Spokane, WA where Bob manages a tire retail store and Marlene works for Eastern Washington Medicare Center, as a computer operator.
Leroy and Leila, twins, were born very premature and lived only a few hours.
Willis married Janice Westley of Pipestone, MN. Willis graduated from Iowa State College at Ames, IA; and then served two years in the army. They have twins, a son and a daughter. They live in Pipestone, MN where Willis owns and operates the Pipestone Vault and Monument Co. and Janice works part-time as a bookkeeper.
Orville married Jeanne Dykstra of Hospers, IA. Orville served four years in the Air Force, graduated from Northwest Technical College, Sheldon, IA as an electrician. They have two daughters and a son. They live in Hospers, IA where Orville is a self-employed electrician, and Jeanne works parttime as an L.P.N. in the Sheldon Hospital.
Jerris married Tamra Oolrich of Mankato, MN. He graduated from Northwestern College, Orange City, IA and attended the University of Nebraska one Year. Tamra graduated from Mankato State, Mankato, MN and attended the University of Nebraska one year. They are presently living and teaching in Boulder, CO. He as teacher and basketball coach and she as a third grade teacher.
We have twelve grandchildren, three of whom are married and we have one great grandson.
by Aldine (Vermeer) Van Roekel
John H. Van Roekel
May 16, 1916 - February 28, 1996
INTERMENT SERVICE: Friday - March 1, 1996, Memory Gardens Cemetery, Sioux Center, Iowa. MEMORIAL SERVICE, Friday - March 1, 1996 2:00 PM, First Reformed Church, Orange City, Iowa John H. Van Roekel, 79 of Orange City, died Wednesday. February 28, 1996 at the Sioux Center Community Hospital in Sioux Center, IA.
He was born to Henry C. and Allie (Vander Ploeg) Van Roekel on May 16, 1916 on the farm near Sioux Center. On March 8, 1940, John married Aldine Vermeer in Sioux Center. They farmed for many years. John drove school bus after moving to town in 1969. He was a member of the First Reformed Church of Orange City and the Sioux Center Produce Board of Directors. John enjoyed horses especially harness racing.
Survivors include: his wife: five sons and one daughter & their spouses: Elwin & Sharon of Denver, CO. Harlan & Janice of Orange City, Marlene and Robert De Geest of Spokane, WA, Willis & Janice of Pipestone, MN, Orville & Jeanne of Hospers. Jerris & Tamra of Boulder, CO; 12 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren; three brothers: Neal, Garret & Henry of Sioux Center; six sisters: Tena Sneller, Carrie Franken of Sioux Center Fannie Sneller of Clarksfield, MN., Cynthia Van Regenmorter, Harriet Meendering, & Ellen of Sioux Center.
He was preceded in death by his parents, twins (Leroy & Leila), sister and brother (Tony).
Memorial Funeral Home, Sioux Center, IA.
ALDINE VAN ROEKEL
September 6, 1919 - December 29, 2008
Mrs. Aldine Van Roekel, age 89, of Orange City, Iowa, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2008, at the Orange City Area Health System Hospital. There will be a prayer service on Friday, January 2, at 10:00am, at the Oolman Funeral Home in Orange City, followed by a graveside service at 10:45am at the Memory Gardens Cemetery in Sioux Center, Iowa, followed by a memorial service at 11:30am, at the First Reformed Church in Orange City. The Rev. Edward Suffern and the Rev. David Ter Beest will officiate. Visitation will be after 4:00pm on Thursday, with the family present from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, at the funeral home.
Aldine was born on September 6, 1919, at Sioux Center, the daughter of Ed E. and Alida (Borgman) Vermeer. She was raised at Sioux Center, where she attended a country school and graduated from the Sioux Center High School. She was also a student at a business college in Sioux City, Iowa, for a year.
On March 8, 1940, she married John H. Van Roekel at Sioux Center. They farmed west of Orange City for many years, where she was a homemaker. She also served as a secretary at Northwestern College in Orange City. In 1969, they moved into Orange City. John passed away on February 28, 1996, in Sioux Center.
Later, Mrs. Van Roekel became a resident of the Pioneer Memorial Home and more recently, she transferred to the Heritage House Nursing Home, both in Orange City. She was a member of the First Reformed Church, where she was very active in the women's organizations, holding all offices, including chairwoman, over the years. She also served as a Sunday school teacher. She enjoyed music, reading, and playing games, such as scrabble and card games.
Survivors include a daughter-in-law, Sharon Van Roekel, of Denver, Colorado; a son and his wife, Harlan and Janice Van Roekel, of Orange City; a daughter, Marlene De Geest, of Spokane, Washington; three sons and their wives, Willis and Janice Van Roekel, of Pipestone, Minnesota; Orville and Jeanne Van Roekel, of Hospers, Iowa; and Jerris and Tamra Van Roekel, of Berthoud, Colorado; twelve grandchildren, twenty-two great-grandchildren; and four sisters and three brotherss, Edna Van Roekel, of Fulda, Minnesota; Loyd Vermeer, of Sioux Center; Cynthia Kaskey, of Aurelia, Iowa; Elnor Niffinegger, of Lexington, Kentucky; Wallace Vermeer and Ruth Bonnema, both of Orange City; and Wayne Vermeer, of Clearwater, Florida.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a twin son and daughter, Leroy and Leila; a son, Elwin; a son-in-law, Bob De Geest; a great-grandson, Tony; two sisters, Hester Black and Mildred Schut; and a brother, Irwin Vermeer.
Oolman Funeral Home, Orange City, IA.
Elwin Van Roekel of Aurora, an electrician, died Aug. 14. He was 60. Services were Thursday at Fairmount Mortuary. There was cremation.
He was born July 3, 1940, in Orange City, Iowa. He married Sharon Buckley.
He is survived by his wife; two sons, Terry, Napa, Calif., and Randy, Littleton; two stepdaughters, Leslie, and Lynn Case, both of Denver; his mother, Aldine, Orange City; four brothers, Harlan, Orange City, Willis, Pipestone, Minn., Orville, Hospers, Iowa, and Jerris, Bertland; a sister, Marlene, Spokane, Wash.; and five grandchildren.
Willis LeRoy VanRoekel "Posse" was born July 22, 1947 to John and Aldine (Vermeer) VanRoekel in Sioux Center, IA. He grew up on the farm in Orange City, IA. Willis was baptized and made his profession of faith at First Reformed Church in Orange City. He graduated high school in 1965 from Maurice-Orange City High School and then continued his education at IA State University Ames having graduated in 1969 with a degree in animal science. He was then drafted into the United States Army and served in the 101st Airborne during Vietnam. In 1969, he received distinction as 101st Airborne Soldier of the Year. He was honorably discharged in 1971 and returned back to Pipestone, Minnesota.
Willis was united in marriage to Janice Westley on March 24, 1972 at Peace United Methodist Church in Pipestone. Their union was blessed with two children, Michael and Melissa and 44 years marriage together. The couple lived in Blomkest, Minnesota shortly before moving to Sterling, Illinois in 1974 when Willis was transferred to Funk’s G Hybrid Seed Corn Company where he was the area district sales representative. Willis then worked as an independent insurance agent within the Schuneman-VanRoekel Insurance Company he had started.
In 1988, the family moved to Pipestone, Minnesota where he owned and operated the Pipestone Vault and Monument Company. In 1993, they bought the Ready-Mix plant and began the underground construction work company operating under the name of Pipestone Concrete. In 1999, they sold the plant to Buffalo Ridge Concrete and Willis went to work as construction superintendent for Ames Construction out of Denver, Colorado. In 2010, Willis retired and then managed the Pipestone American Legion, retiring in 2015.
Due to health complications from Amyloidosis (an Agent Orange related illness) Willis died at his home in Pipestone on February 9, 2017 at the age of 69 years. Willis was a member of Peace United Methodist Church in Pipestone, a lifetime member and past commander of the American Legion and VFW, and a member of the Hiawatha Club. He enjoyed golf, coffee, dice, hunting, fishing, and in recent years - scooter riding. He especially enjoyed family and attending his grandchildren’s activities. He was named "Posse" by his beloved grandchildren. Posse will be remembered as a strong, hardworking man with an entrepreneurial spirit. He was a kind man and enjoyed everyone he met.
Willis is lovingly remembered by his wife, Janice of Pipestone; two children, Michael (and Carissa) VanRoekel of Edgerton, Minnesota, and Melissa (and Dan) Scotting of Pipestone, Minnesota; grandchildren, Tate VanRoekel, Trent VanRoekel, DJ Scotting, Katie Scotting, and Declan VanRoekel; siblings, Harlan (and Janice) VanRoekel of Orange City, IA, Orville (and Jeanne) VanRoekel of Hospers, IA, Marlene DeGeest of Spokane, Washington, Jerris (and Tamara) VanRoekel of Denver, Colorado; a sister-in-law, Sharon VanRoekel of Denver, Colorado.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Aldine; siblings, Elwin VanRoekel, Leroy and Leila VanRoekel; and a brother-in-law, Bob DeGeest.
Blessed and eternal be his memory.
VAN ROEKEL, HENRY A. AND ALICE (FRANKEN)
Henry was born in Sioux Center on May 10, 1918 to Henry and Allie Van Roekel. He attended country school in Center Twp. No. 2. He worked with his father on the farm, eventually taking over the family farm.
Alice was born Feb. 5, 1921, in Sioux Center to Art E. and Hermina Franken. She attended the country school in Welcome Twp. No. 8. Alice helped on their family farm, also working for other families in the area.
On Dec. 5, 1945, at her parents home Alice and Henry ware married. They moved to Henry's family farm and farmed there until 1969. The family moved to Sioux Center, and Henry started working with Sioux Preme Pack. Alice continued working for the Holland House, working there for 22 years. Henry retired from Sioux Preme, but is still busy driving truck and various other chores for Ken Hulstein and Sioux Automation. Alice is presently working part-time as a customer greeter for Wal Mart.
Henry and Alice have five children: Conrad, born Oct. 9, 1946; Ila, born March 24, 1950; Claryce, born Jan. 7, 1954; Loren, born April 5, 1957; Mark, born July 16, 1962. Conrad, Ila, and Claryce attended country school, but when the country schools were closed they attended Sioux Center Schools. All five of the Van Roekel children graduated from Sioux Center Schools.
Henry and Alice Van Roekel family: Front row: Corey Schuiteman, Craig Schuiteman, Chad
Schuiteman, Alice and Henry Van Roekel, Tom Harskamp, Tim Harskamp. Second row: Claryce
Schuiteman, Sharon Van Roekel, Pat Van Roekel, Sherri Van Roekel, Lisa Gritters, Shantelle
Harskamp, Ila Harskamp. Third row: Mark Schuiteman, Loren Van Roekel, Con Van Roekel,
Scott Van Roekel, Mark Van Roekel, Dave Harskamp
After graduating from high school, Con attended De Vry Technical School in Chicago, Illinois. Con met Pat Marema while going to school in Chicago and they ware married there on July 7,1968. Con was drafted into the army after graduating from De Vry and served for a time in Vietnam. He was discharged from the army in 1970. He returned to college at this time, going to Western Michigan Univ. in Kalamazoo, Mich. They made their home there until 1972. Con got a job with Burroughs Corp. in Chicago. Pat worked with International Harvestore. They lived in Chicago until Jan., 1977, then moving back to Northwest Iowa. Con is presently employed with Jesco in Sioux Center, and Pat works with Vet Pharm in Sioux Center. Con and Pat have two children: Sherri, born Nov. 16, 1973, in Chicago, and Scott, born act. 17, 1977, in Sioux Center.
After graduating from high school, Ila attended Nettleton College in Sioux Falls, S.D. Ila married David Harskamp on August 22, 1970 in Sioux Center. While Dave finished college at UNI, Ila worked for a bank in Cedar Falls. After graduation Dave taught in Waterloo for 1 year, then the family moved to Early, Ia., where Dave taught with the Crestland School district. In 1976, the Harskamps moved to Sioux Center where Dave worked with Van Roekel Real Estate. He is presently the Industrial Arts teacher in Sioux Center High School, and Ila works with Moeller Insurance Agency. Dave and Ila have three children: Shantelle, born Nov. 28, 1972, in Cedar Falls, Ia.; Timothy, born June 25, 1976, in Sioux Center, Ia.; Thomas, born Jan. 18, 1978, in Sioux Center.
Claryce graduated from high school and attended Northwestern College in O.C. for two years. Claryce married Mark Schuiteman on July 11, 1975 in Sioux Center. After graduating from ISU, Mark started farming with his dad and brother, and Claryce worked as a secretary at Kinsey Elementary School. After living on an acreage near the home farm, Mark and Claryce moved into a home in Sioux Center. Mark and Claryce have three sons: Corey, born February 20, 1980 in Sioux Center; Craig born Nov. 4, 1981 in Sioux Center; Chad, born March 6, 1985 in Sioux Center.
Loren graduated from high school and attended WIT in Sioux City. After graduating from WIT he worked in Sioux City for a time as a draftsman, but left to take a job with circle K in Sheldon. In Jan., 1985, he moved to Florida where he met Sharon Whitlock. In Nov., 1985, the entire Van Roekel family spent Thanksgiving in Alabama to attend their wedding. Loren and Sharon have bought a home in Tampa, Florida. Loren is presently employed with Work Place Office Supplies and Sharon works for Curry Funeral Home as office manager.
Mark graduated from high school and attended Gateway Electronics in Omaha. After graduation he moved back to Sioux Center, and is presently working for JLM Swine.
By Clarice Schuiteman
Between 3rd & 4th E-W roads, Row 3 east of the west entry road.
Alice 1921-1999, Henry 1918-2003:
Alice Van Roekel, 78, of Sioux Center died Monday, April 12, 1999 at the Sioux Center Community Hospital. Funeral services were held on Thursday, April 15 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Reformed Church in Sioux Center. Rev. Mark De Witt officiated. Burial was at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Sioux Center under the direction of the Memorial Funeral Home.
Alice was born Feb. 5,1921 in Sioux Center, the daughter of Art E. and Hermina (Rozeboom) Franken. She attended country school. On Dec. 5, 1945 she married Henry Van Roekel at her parents' home. The couple farmed until 1968 when they moved to Sioux Center. Mrs. Van Roekel was a member of the First Reformed Church where she was an active member of the Ruth Circle and also babysit for MOPS ministry. She enjoyed greeting people at Wal-Mart for many years.
Sunvivors include her husband; three sons and their wives, Con and Pat Van Roekel and Mark and Lisa Van Roekel, all of Sioux Center and Loren and Sharon Van Roekel of Fountain Valley, Calif.; two daughters and their husbands, Ila and Dave Harskamp and Claryce and Mark Schuiteman, all of Sioux Center; 14 grandchildren, Sherri and Daron Van Beek, Scott Van Roekel, Shantelle and Greg Bleeker, Tim and Tom Harskamp, Corey, Craig and Chad Schuiteman, Alex Van Roekel, and Brody, Nicholas and Joshua Van Roekel; two great-granddaughters, Brooke and Lauren Bleeker; two brothers and their wives, Everett (her twin) and Gertrude Franken and John and Darlene Franken, all of Sioux Center; two sisters and their husbands, Louise and Gerrit Robert Hulstein and Arlene and Joel Bensema, all of Sioux Center.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Evert, and a sister, Johanna.
Sioux County Capital 1999-04-22.
Henry A. Van Roekel was born May 10, 1918 to Henry & Allie (VanderPloeg) Van Roekel in Sioux Center, Iowa and was raised on a farm west of Sioux Center. On December 5, 1945 he was united in marriage to Alice Franken at her parents home in rural Sioux Center. Henry and Alice lived and farmed west of Sioux Center where many of Henry's hours were also spent riding horseback with neighbors and the saddle club. In 1968 the family moved into Sioux Center where Henry was employed at Sioux Preme Pack for over 15 years.
After retirement he enjoyed work at various places including Schuiteman Farms, Sioux Automation, Ken Hulstein Farm and Jesco. He always enjoyed riding his motorcycle but his greatest enjoyment came from spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, especially watching them participate in sporting events. Henry entered the Sioux Center Nursing Home in December, 2000 where he received very compassionate and loving care. Henry was a member of the First Reformed Church of Sioux Center for his entire life.
Survivors include his children, Conrad and Pat Van Roekel of Sioux Center; Ila and Dave Harskamp of Sioux Center; Claryce and Mark Schuiteman of Sioux Center; Loren and Sharon Van Roekel of Fountain Valley, CA; and Mark and Lisa Van Roekel of Sioux Center. Grandchildren, Sherri and Daron Van Beek; Scott and Jennifer Van Roekel; Shantelle and Greg Bleeker, Tim Harskamp, Tom and Dana Harskamp; Corey, Craig and Chad Schuiteman; Alex Van Roekel; Brody, Nicholas, Joshua and Marisa Van Roekel. Great Grandchildren, Brooke, Lauren and Dayle Bleeker and Carson Van Beek. Sisters, Cynthia and Henry Van Regenmorter, Harriet Meendering and Ellen Van Roekel. In-laws Grace Van Roekel, Aldine Van Roekel, Evert and Gert Franken, Gerrit and Louise Hulstein, John A. Franken and Joel and Arlene Bensema.
Henry was preceded in death by his wife, Alice in April, 1999; his parents, and brothers Neal, Garret, lony, and John; his sisters Tena Sneller, Fannie sneller, Carrie Franken and Fannie Van Roekel (1916).
Siouxland Express 2003-08-13.
VAN REGENMORTER, HENRY AND CYNTHIA (VAN ROEKEL)
Henry Van Regenmorter was born on August 25, 1919 at Sioux Center to Peter and Carrie (Bos) Van Regenmorter. Cynthia Van Roekel was born at rural Sioux Center to Henry C. and Allie (Vander Ploeg) Van Roekel. They were married September 26, 1945 in the farm home by the Rev. L.A. Brunsting, Pastor of the First Reformed Church of Sioux Center.
Henry and Cynthia Van Regenmorter
Both Henry and Cynthia completed eight years of schooling in rural schools near Sioux Center. Farming was their life, and after their marriage they lived near Struble, IA in a huge 3-story farm home and farmed the land. After that they moved to a farm near Maurice, IA and lived there until 1971 when they moved to the town of Sioux Center. Since then Henry and Cynthia have both worked at a poultry farm, have been janitors in a local business, and at present they operate a taxi service for the city of Sioux Center.
The night of February 4, 1984 is one that Henry and Cynthia will not soon forget. They ware driving home from northern Minnesota when a severe snow storm hit, visibility was zero, and a wall of snow, as it ware, was around them. They were picked up by another passerby, but couldn't keep moving, and so spent the light stuck in a snow bank, with temperatures at 12 degrees below zero, and a 60-mile-an-hour wind. Being low on gas, they ran the car for 15 minutes and then waited for 45 minutes before starting it again. At 5:30 A.M. a farmer came out with a truck and brought the group to the farm house to warm up and be given a warm breakfast, ending a cold night of 11 1/2 hours spent in the storm.
Four children were born to this marriage, as follows:
1. Roger Dean married Wenova Kay Huisman and live on a farm near Maurice, IA. They have two sons, Bradley Dean and Timothy Lee.
2. Cheryl Ann was married to Perry Dykstra, but passed away on January 20,1974 of Hodgkins disease at the age of 25 years. They had two children, Shawn Renee and Jason Allen.
3. Darrel Henry married Margery Ann Huisman, and live on a farm near Maurice, IA. They have four children, Melissa Ann, Daryl Lee, Daniel Jan, and David Dean.
4. Karen Joy is married to Robert Wayne Huenink and live on a farm near Alcester, SD. They have two children, Katie Joy and Ryan Robert.
by Ellen Van Roekel
Between 10th St. & 1st E-W roads, row 3 east of west entry road. 1923-2006:
Cynthia Van Regenmorter
June 18, 1923--January 25, 2006
Age: 82 years, 7 months, 7 days
Funeral Service: January 28, 2006, First Reformed Church, Sioux Center, Iowa. Interment: Memory Gardens Cemetery, Sioux Center, Iowa
Cynthia Van Regenmorter was born June 18, 1923 to Henry and Allie (Vander Ploeg) Van Roekel of Sioux Center, IA. As a young girl she attended country school through the 8th grade. She was joined in marriage to Henry Van Regenmorter on September 26, 1945 at her parent's home near Sioux Center. The couple began their marriage farming near Rock Rapids. They later farmed near Struble and Maurice.
While on the farm Cynthia was a homemaker and helpmate to her husband. Most days, she was found working side by side with Henry. After retiring to Sioux Center in 1971, she spent her days helping Henry with his taxi service, painting whatever Henry made in his workshop and most of all spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Many memories were made with Grandma sitting around the kitchen table. Cynthia had been a member of the Maurice Reformed Church and was currently a member of the First Reformed Church of Sioux Center. She will be remembered fondly for her always present smile, a love of life, laughter, conversation, and most of all a love of family.
She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Henry of Sioux Center; her children, Roger and Winova Van Regenmorter of Orange City, Darrel and Mick Van Regenmorter of Maurice, and Karen and Bob Huenink of Alcester, SD; one son-in-law, Perry Dykstra of Le Mars; two sisters: Harriet Meendering and Ellen Van Roekel of Sioux Center; two sisters-in-law: Grace Van Roekel of Sioux Center, Aldine Van Roekel of Orange City and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Cynthia was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Cheryl Dykstra; infant grand-daughter, Jill Huenink; five brothers: Neal, Gerrit, Tony, John and Henry Van Roekel; three sisters: Fannie Sneller, Carrie Franken, Tena Sneller; and an infant sister, Fanny Van Roekel.
Memorial Funeral Home, Sioux Center, Ia.
Henry Van Regenmorter
8/25/1919 - Saturday, April 25, 2009
HENRY VAN REGENMORTER, 89, of Sioux Center, IA died Saturday, April 25, 2009 at the Sioux Center Community Hospital. A funeral service will be held Wednesday at 10:30AM inthe First Reformed Church of Sioux Center, with Rev.Roger Voskuil officiating. Interment will follow in Memory Gardens Cemetery of Sioux Center.
Henry Van Regenmorter was born August 25, 1919 to Peter and Carrie Van Regenmorter of Sioux Center, Iowa. As a young boy he attended country school through the 6th grade. He was joined in marriage to Cynthia Van Roekel on September 26, 1945 at her parent's home near Sioux Center. The couple began their marriage farming near Sioux Center. They later farmed near Rock Rapids, Struble and Maurice until moving to Sioux Center in 1971.
He worked at Van's Poultry Farm and later drove the Regional Taxi until he retired. Henry loved his job as a taxi driver and was very dedicated to getting everyone where they needed to be on time. His hobby and joy was to be in the basement with his wife, doing woodworking for his kids and grandkids or any one who could talk him into a project. He loved spending time with his family and always enjoyed having everyone together. After Cynthia's death in 2006, he moved to Kosgrove Estates where he enjoyed many good times around the family table. Henry was a member of the Maurice First Reformed Church and was currently a member of the First Reformed Church of Sioux Center.
Henry is survived by three children and their spouses: Roger and Winova Van Regenmorter of Orange City, Darrel and Mick Van Regenmorter of Orange City and Karen and Bob Huenink of Alcester, SD; his son-in-law, Perry Dykstra of Le Mars; 10 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren; two brothers and sisters-in-law: Bill and Aldine Van Regenmorter, Rich and Phyllis Van Regenmorter and sister, Wynn Vonk all of Sioux Center along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
In addition to his wife, Henry was preceded in death by his daughter, Cheryl Dykstra; infant granddaughter, Jill Huenink; his parents; two brothers and sisters-in-law: Jake and Carrie Van Regenmorter, Dick and Pearl Van Regenmorter and brother-in-law, Ben Vonk.
Memorial Funeral Home, Sioux Center, Ia.
MEENDERING, ALBERT G. AND HARRIET (VAN ROEKEL)
Albert Gerrit Meendering was born January 18, 1923 in Springfield, South Dakota. His parents Gerrit and Grace Meendering, along with two brothers and two sisters moved to Doon, Iowa in 1930. In the year 1935 they moved to Sioux Center, and in 1939 moved one mile east of Sioux Center where farming was their occupation. Al went to high school one year and then had to stay home to help with the farming because his brother got married.
Harriet Van Roekel was born June 6, ,1926 at Sioux Center. Her parents ware Henry C. and Allie (Vander Ploeg) Van Roekel. She attended country school west of Sioux Center and graduated from high school in 1943, later graduating from Samuel's School of Cosmetology in Sioux City, Iowa. She owned her own beauty shop "Van's Beauty Shop" in Sioux Center where the Wesselink Insurance is located today.
Al and Harriet Meendering.
The family consists of Shirley, Marlin and Keith. All grew up one mile east of Sioux Center and attended Sioux Center Community School. Shirley was born in 1947. After high school graduation she graduated from Northwestern College in Orange City and. then taught art in Lake Park, Iowa and Sioux Center. She felt the Lord's call to serve Him and went to Brazil as a missionary for one year. Then she attended Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan and is now a pastor in the United Methodist Church, serving a church in southeast Iowa.
Marlin was born in 1951. After high school graduation he attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, OK. He also felt the Lord's call and graduated from Western Theological Seminary. During college days he married Bonnie Stoel, from Edgerton, MN. They now have three children, Andrea, Tim and Steven. He served as a pastor in Reformed Churches in Hudsonville, MI, Denver, CO, and is now working on starting a new church in Eden Prairie, MN.
Keith was born in 1958. After his graduation from high school he attended Central College in Pella, IA, graduating with an organ major and a business minor. Today he manages a men's clothing and is a buyer for the store in Pella, IA. He also plays organ in various churches.
Many trips ware taken when the family was growing up, finding it to be very educational and a good source of entertainment.
Christmas is a highlight for this family and there is lots of run, but it is getting more difficult to get together because of the distance between the different family members.
by Harriet Meendering
Between 10th St. & 1st E-W roads. Row 1 east of west entry road. 1923-1999:
Between 10th St. & 1st E-W roads. Row 1 east of west entry road. Pastor 1947-1999:
Sioux Center News of March 2, 1999
Albert G. Meendering
January 18. 1923 - February 28, 1999
Albert G. Meendering, 76, died Sunday, February 28, at a Sioux City hospital. Services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 3, at First Reformed Church in Sioux Center with the Rev. Mark De Witt officiating. Burial will be in Memory Gardens Cemetery in Sioux Center. Visitation is from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Vander Ploeg Chapel in Sioux Center.
Meendering was born January 18, 1923, in Springfield, South Dakota, to Gerrlt and Grace (Roskam) Meendering. He married Harriet Van Roekel on July 19, 1946, in Sioux Center. He farmed and did carpenter work his entire life. He was a member of First Reformed Church, where he served as both elder and deacon.
Survivors include his wife; three children, Shirley Meendering of Sioux Center; Marlin and his wife Bonnie Meendering of Eden Prairie, Minnesota; and Keith Meendering of Des Moines; three grandchildren, Andrea, Tim and Steve Meendering; and one sister, Florence Den Herder of Sioux Center.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Harold and Andrew Meendering; and one sister, Cynthia Nieuwenhuis. Memorials have been designated for [...]
Obituary: Memorial Funeral Home 09-15-2014
Harriet Meendering, 88, of Sioux Center, IA died Saturday, September 13, 2014, at Royale Meadows Care Center of Sioux Center. A visitation will be held on Tuesday from 4-8PM, with the family present from 5-7PM at the Memorial Funeral Home of Sioux Center. There will be a prayer service for family and close friends on Wednesday at 12:40PM at First Reformed Church of Sioux Center, the prayer service will be led by Ardith Wynja. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 1:00PM at the First Reformed Church of Sioux Center with Rev. Travis Else officiating. Interment will follow the funeral service in Memory Gardens Cemetery of Sioux Center. The Meendering family prefers memorials to Sioux Center Home Health & Hospice, c/o Sioux Center Health Foundation.
Harriet (Van Roekel) Meendering was born in rural Sioux Center, Iowa on June 6, 1926 to Henry C. and Allie (Vander Ploeg) Van Roekel. Harriet attended country school and graduated from Sioux Center Public High School. She trained at a beauty school in Sioux City, Iowa and opened her own beauty salon in Sioux Center.
On July 19, 1946, Harriet was united in marriage to Albert G. Meendering. Following their marriage, Harriet and Al farmed east of Sioux Center. Harriet provided a comfortable home for Al and their three children. She was a talented seamstress and prepared wonderful meals and desserts. In her spare time she enjoyed craft projects, especially needlework. Harriet was a life-long member of First Reformed Church of Sioux Center, serving as a charter member of the Lydia Circle. She also served on Sioux Center Hospice committees.
Harriet is survived by her two sons: Marlin and Bonnie Meendering of Eden Prairie, MN and Keith Meendering of Des Moines, IA; her three grandchildren: Andrea Meendering and Stefan Cline of San Diego, CA, Tim and Ellen Meendering and their daughter, Audrey of Minneapolis, MN, Steven and Amber Meendering and their son, Matthew of Eden Prairie, MN; a sister, Ellen Van Roekel of Sioux Center along with her numerous nieces and nephews.
Harriet was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Al Meendering; her daughter, Shirley Meendering; her parents; five brothers: Neal (Dena) Van Roekel, Garret (Jo) Van Roekel, Tony (Grace) Van Roekel, John (Aldine) Van Roekel, Henry (Alice) Van Roekel; five sisters: Fannie Van Roekel, Tena (Henry) Sneller, Carrie (Gerrit) Franken, Fannie (Ed) Sneller, Cynthia (Henry) Van Regenmorter.
Sioux Center News Mach 23, 1999
Shirley F. Meendering
Pastor Shirley F. Meendering, 51, died Sunday, March 7, in Sioux Center. Funeral services were Wednesday, March 10, at First Reformed Church, Sioux Center, with the Rev. Mark De Witt officiating. Burial was in Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Shirley Meendering was born April 24, 1947, in Sioux Center to Albert G. and Harriet (Van Roekel) Meendering. She was a graduate of Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, with a degree in Christian education and a master of divinity. After serving Reformed churches in Minnesota and Michigan, she was ordained May 12, 1986, as a pastor in the Methodist church. She served Methodist churches in Iowa, the most recent being the Methodist churches in Marathon and Rembrandt.
Because of cancer, she was forced to quit in 1995; and during the last four years she suffered the effects of that disease extensively. Her family and friends were invaluable in caring for her.
Survivors include her mother; two brothers, Marlin and his wife Bonnie Meendering of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and Keith Meendering of Des Moines; a niece, Andrea Meendering, and two nephews, Tim and Steve Meendering, all of Eden Prairie.
She was preceded in death by her father just one week earlier, on February 28.