Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers Obituaries

Introduction to Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers

Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers is a trusted and compassionate funeral home serving the community of Hospers, Iowa, and surrounding areas. With a rich history and commitment to providing exceptional service, Oolman Funeral Home has established itself as a beacon of hope and support during difficult times. Located at 201 2nd Avenue, Hospers, IA, 51238, this funeral home is dedicated to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect.

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Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers has been a pillar of the community for generations, providing a safe and comforting environment for families to gather and celebrate the lives of their loved ones. The funeral home's legacy is built on a foundation of compassion, empathy, and understanding, ensuring that every family receives personalized attention and care during their time of need.

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Carol R. Bras - January 06, 1934 - May 06, 2024

Departed: 05/06/2024 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Carol Bras, age 90, of Orange City, formerly of Hospers, passed away on May 6, 2024, at the Orange City Area Health System.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Sunday, May 19, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, at the Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers. There will be a funeral service on Monday, May 20, at 1:30pm, at the Trinity Reformed Church Hospers campus with the Rev. Milton Sikkema and the Rev. Kurt Bush officiating. Interment will follow the service at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers.

Carol Ruth was born on January 6, 1934, near Newkirk, the daughter of John J. and Anna (Top) Van Oort. She was raised in rural Newkirk, where she attended country school Capel #8 and the Newkirk Consolidated School. Following graduation, she attended Northwestern Junior College in Orange City before teaching in Newkirk and Sioux Center.

On July 25, 1957, she was united in marriage to Leroy Bras in Orange City. They first made their home in Lone Rock, where she taught at the Sentral Community School. In 1967, they moved to Ireton for two years before relocating to Hospers in 1969. While in Hospers, Carol worked as a substitute teacher and later at the Hospers Telephone Company for eighteen years until retiring in 1996. Leroy passed away on April 3, 2009, in Orange City, after more than 51 years of marriage. In 2019, Carol moved to the Pioneer Memorial Home in Orange City, then to Pleasant Acres in Hull in 2020, before becoming a resident of the Prairie Ridge Care Center in Orange City in May of 2021.

Mrs. Bras was a member of the First Reformed Church in Hospers, where she was active in the church choir, participated in the women’s Bible studies, and taught both Sunday School and catechism classes. She also volunteered as part of the Northwestern College Auxiliary. During the summers, the Bras family enjoyed vacations, rotating years focused on fishing or sightseeing for fourteen years, including going to eighteen major league baseball stadiums. In their retirement, she and Leroy enjoyed watching local sporting events, including Northwestern College and local high school sports, as well as following the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs baseball games on radio and television. Together they traveled all across the United States, only missing two states. In addition, they were able to take Canadian fishing trips, visit Hawaii with their sons, and make trips to Japan and South Korea to visit their oldest son, Harris.

Carol was known for her well stocked and assiduously cultivated memory, her good sense of humor, and for truly taking an interest in others. People would often quiz her to see if she remembered something, especially people’s birthdays.

Survivors include her two sons and their wives, Harris and Heejeon Bras, of West Lafayette, Indiana; and Gene and Vicki Bras, of Cerritos, California; three grandchildren, Brittany, and her husband, Brandon Meyer, of Hesperia, California; Laura Bras of Houston, Texas; and Daniel Bras of West Lafayette, Indiana; one great-grandchild on the way; and two sisters, Wilma Vaas, of Orange City; and Hendrine, and her husband, Duane Gutcher, of Casa Grande, Arizona; along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a sister and her husband, Harriet and Marion Andringa; a stepsister-in-law, Alma Andringa; a brother-in-law, Earl Vaas; her parents-in-law, Harry and Minnie Bras; a sister-in-law and her husband, Margaret and Duane Vande Berg; and two nieces, Anita Hofland and Avis Bennett.

Memorials will be given to Bible League International and Talking Bibles International.

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Gary D. Schipper - March 06, 1956 - March 22, 2024

Departed: 03/22/2024 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Gary “Skip” Schipper, age 68, of Hospers, passed away on Friday, March 22, 2024, at his home.

A private family memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 26, with the Rev. Milton Sikkema officiating. All those who would like to gather with the family are welcome to join them for a meal and celebration of his life on Tuesday, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, at the Hospers Community Center in Hospers. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Gary Dean was born on March 6, 1956, in Sheldon, the son of James and Annetta (Muilenburg) Schipper. He was raised in Hospers and graduated from the Floyd Valley High School, in Alton, before earning his bachelor’s degree in education from Northwestern College in Orange City.

Aside from a few years in Salt Lake City, Utah, “Skip” lived his entire life in Hospers. He enjoyed working as a mechanic at Ed’s Motor in Hospers and as a car salesman for several different dealerships in Northwest Iowa, most recently for Mulder Auto in Orange City.

Gary was a member of the First Reformed Church in Hospers. He enjoyed riding his Harley, golfing, playing softball, and watching any Iowa Hawkeye game. He looked forward to spending time with his family and was an important part of his nieces and nephews’ lives, as well as their children’s lives. He loved going to morning coffee at the local café and will be fondly remembered by his family and friends for his welcoming personality and ability to befriend almost everyone he met.

Survivors include his siblings, Ronald Schipper, of Hospers; JoAnne, and her husband, Richard Roiko, of Sebeka, Minnesota; Jay Schipper, and his wife, Judy; and Jim Schipper, and his wife, Mavis, all of Hospers; a sister-in-law, Deb Schipper, of Rapid City, South Dakota; and many nieces and nephews and their families.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister in infancy; a brother, Marvin Schipper; and a nephew, David Schipper.

Memorials will be given to the Special Olympics and the Special Youth Challenge.

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William Van Surksum - December 31, 1938 - February 27, 2024

Departed: 02/27/2024 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. William “Bill” Van Surksum, age 85, of Sheldon, formerly of Hospers, passed away on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at his home in Sheldon.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Friday, March 1, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. A prayer service will take place on Saturday, March 2, at 10:00am, at the church, followed by interment at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, at 11:00am, at the church, with the Rev. Duane Tinklenberg officiating. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

William Fredrick, the son of Gerrit and Agnes (Kreykes) Van Surksum, was born on December 31, 1938, on his family’s farm southwest of Sheldon. He grew up on the farm and was a student at the Hospers Christian School and graduated from the Western Christian High School in Hull. As a young man, Bill made his way to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he met Marjorie Joann Feikema.

Bill and Marge were united in marriage on September 22, 1962, in Grand Rapids, where they briefly made their home until returning to Northwest Iowa to raise their family. For the majority of their married life, they farmed near Hospers. In earlier years, in addition to crop farming, Bill raised livestock, primarily hogs. In 2007, they retired from farming and moved to a home in Sheldon. As a couple, Bill and Marge enjoyed camping and traveling together and were able to visit almost all fifty states on their motorcycle. They also spent several winters in Florida, Mississippi, and Texas, volunteering as part of an outreach ministry. After more than sixty years together, Marge passed away on February 18, 2023, in Sheldon.

Bill was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers, served on the church’s consistory as both a deacon and an elder, and sang in the church’s choir. For many years he served as the Lynn Township Clerk, was a member of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, and regularly gave blood, donating more than twenty gallons. When he was younger, Bill liked going bowling and golfing; more recently, he looked forward to having coffee with his friends, volunteering with Love INC, and taking his grandchildren out for lunch. He was an avid fan of the Minnesota Twins and the Iowa Hawkeyes and was a talented woodworker, making countless items that his family will treasure.

Survivors include his three children and their spouses, Michael and Nancy Van Surksum, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Nancy and Dan Foster, of Hospers; and Brad and Kim Van Surksum, of Harrisburg, South Dakota; ten grandchildren, Ryan (Cady) Van Surksum; Andy Van Surksum; Tyler Van Surksum; Lexi (Christian) Kasel; Renae (Brandon) Ruschill; Jenna Meines; Carolynn Meines; Karissa (Brendan) Miedema; Kassidy (fiancé Andrew Kovalenko) Van Surksum; and Bennett Van Surksum; two great-grandchildren, Addison Van Surksum and Jordan Van Surksum; two sisters, Ella Horjus, of Grand Rapids, and Wilma Vink, of Sheldon; five sisters-in-law, Betty Bolkema, of Hull; Karolyn Van Engen, of Sioux Center; Ann Feikema, of Sioux Falls; Arlene (Art) Stellinga, of Rock Valley; and Lori (Ron) Bruxvoort, of Erie, Colorado; and a brother-in-law, Casey (Rose) Feikema, of Luverne, Minnesota.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a sister, Carrie (Rich) Venema; two brothers, John (Vonnie) Van Surksum, and an infant also named Bill; and five brothers-in-law, Mart Horjus, Marv Vink, John Bolkema, Arn Van Engen, and Ken Kelderman.

Memorials will be given to Love INC of Greater O’Brien County.

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Robert Blankers - March 08, 1936 - February 27, 2024

Departed: 02/27/2024 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Robert “Bob” Blankers, age 87, of Owatonna, Minnesota, passed away on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at the Cascade Creek Memory Care in Rochester, Minnesota.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Friday, March 8, from 2:30pm to 3:30pm, at the Christ Community Covenant Church in Owatonna. There will be a funeral service on Friday, at 3:30pm, at the church.

A second visitation with the family present will be held on Saturday, March 9, from 1:00pm to 2:00pm, at the First Presbyterian Church in Hospers. There will be a second funeral service on Saturday, at 2:00pm, at the church. Following a time of refreshments and fellowship, interment will take place at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers.

He was born on March 8, 1936, to Laurens Jr. and Mattie (Peelen) Blankers at his grandmother’s home in Sheldon. The family lived on a farm near Archer. He graduated from Archer Consolidated Schools in 1954. In 1956, he graduated as a Junior Accountant from the National Business College in Sioux City, where he met his wife Betty (Johnson). They were married in Ashton, on June 14, 1957. While Robert and Betty lived in Canby, Minnesota, their three children were born.

The majority of his working life Robert held manager positions at Cooperative grain elevators in the communities of Lincoln, Schaller, Hospers, Swanton, NE, and Carpenter. Prior to employment at grain elevators, he worked at Duven Music in Sioux City, and was an accountant at the Canby Cooperative in Canby. He ended his working years in the carpentry department at OTC in Owatonna, retiring from there in 2001.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. At the age of 86, Robert proudly celebrated 75 years of continuous playing as a church organist. He was always quick to volunteer his musical keyboarding skills whenever needed at a family event or in the communities they lived. Throughout his musical career, he played for hundreds of weddings and funerals. His carpentry skills were used in the construction of many house projects and he used his DIY skills by participating in several hurricane disaster recovery trips in the South, as well as, volunteering with local community projects. Desserts were a staple to him. He never turned down a piece of chocolate cake with frosting.

Robert is survived by his children – Denise (Michael) Werner of Rochester, Minnesota; Laura (Jon) Thom of Chaska, Minnesota; and James (Brenda) Blankers of Hospers. Grandchildren – Steven Werner, Amy Werner, Margaret Thom, Catherine Thom, Theo (Hillary) Blankers and their children Oliver and Opal, Tony (Stephanie) Blankers and their sons Melvin and Gerrit, and Jake Blankers. Brother – Don (Jane) Blankers; brothers-in-law – Virgil Johnson and Howard Johnson; sisters-in-law – Marjorie Roelofsen and Arlyce Johnson. Many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his wife Betty of 63 years, parents Laurens Jr. and Mattie Blankers; parents-in-law Mike and Dena Johnson; brothers – Laurens Arthur Blankers and George Blankers; brothers-in-law – Stanley Johnson, Douglas Johnson and Roger Roelofsen; sisters-in-laws Lois Johnson, Leila Johnson, Marilyn Johnson, Betty Cherry Blankers and LaVonne Blankers; and great grandson Kenneth Blankers.

Memorials are requested to an organization of donor’s choice that would honor Robert’s love of music or to the Owatonna Christ Community Covenant Church.

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Robert Hayes - September 02, 1952 - November 01, 2023

Departed: 11/01/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Robert Holt Hayes, age 71, of Hospers, passed away on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at the Sanford Sheldon Medical Center.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Sunday, November 5, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, at the Trinity Reformed Church in Hospers. There will be a memorial gathering on Monday, November 6, at 11:00am, at the church with chaplain Bruce Kallis officiating. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Robert “Bob” Hayes was born on September 2, 1953, in Japan, the son of Thomas and Michiko (Mathushita) Hayes. When he was two years old, his family moved to Sacramento, California, where he was raised. After graduating from high school, he spent one year in college before enlisting in the United States Air Force. After training in avionics, he was stationed in Korea; Shreveport, Louisiana; and Omaha, Nebraska. He was honorably discharged in 1978.

On August 29, 1974, he was united in marriage to Charlene Vander Ploeg in Hospers. They initially made their home in Council Bluffs before moving to Conroe, Texas, where they raised their family. In addition to starting his career installing and maintaining MRI machines, Bob owned and maintained several arcade gaming machines. In 1986, they moved their family to Fort Collins, Colorado, where Bob and Charlene owned and operated the Sidekick Flea Market. After retiring in 2007, they returned to Charlene’s hometown of Hospers. In 2010, he was diagnosed with liver disease.

Bob attended the Trinity Reformed Church in Hospers. He liked playing on the computer, buying and reselling antiques and collectables, and spending time bonding with dogs. In earlier years, he enjoyed woodworking in his garage.

Survivors include his wife of more than 49 years, Charlene, of Hospers; a son and his wife, Jeremy Hayes and Cheryl Kolus, of Fort Collins; a daughter, Amber Hayes, of Hospers; a brother and his wife, Greg and Michelle Hayes, of California; his mother-in-law, Lucia Vander Ploeg, of Sanborn; and his wife’s siblings, Pat and John Stewart, of Lynchburg, Virginia; Irene and Bruce Kallis, of Bismark, North Dakota; Kathy and Dan Patterson, of Marion; Rachel Kvigne, of Rock Valley; Ginny and Greg Bradley, of Holt, Missouri; Will and Diane Vander Ploeg, of Hospers; and John and Rachel Vander Ploeg, of Aurora, Illinois; and a brother-in-law, Frank Randazzo, of Metairie, Louisiana; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Chasper Vander Ploeg, and a sister-in-law, Terry Randazzo.

Memorials will be given to Love INC in Sheldon and Justice For All in Rock Valley.

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Roger Jacobsma - December 29, 1953 - October 06, 2023

Departed: 10/06/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Roger Jacobsma, age 69, of Hospers, passed away on Friday, October 6, 2023, at his home in Hospers.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Monday, October 9, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. A prayer service will take place on Tuesday, October 10, at 1:30pm, at the church, followed by interment at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers. There will be a memorial service on Tuesday, at 2:30pm, at the church with the Rev. Aaron Gonzalez officiating. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Roger Alan was born on December 29, 1953, to Gerrit and Mary (Van Holland) Jacobsma, in Hudson, South Dakota. The family farmed for many years in the South Dakota and Minnesota area before settling near Edgerton, where Roger met his future wife, Cheryl Hendriks.

They were married on December 28, 1974, and raised three children on a farm by Comfrey, Minnesota, where Roger worked at a grain elevator. The kids loved helping their dad on the farm and wrestling with him when he got home. The Jacobsma family moved to Hospers in 1994, where Roger lived until his death. He was a devoted Christian who loved Jesus, Cheryl, his kids, and grandkids. He loved spending time with them, either at a ball game, on the golf course, or on vacation at the lake.

After their kids moved out, Roger and Cheryl took up motorcycling and traveled many miles enjoying the beauty of God’s creation. Roger played a mean game of cards and was known for his competitive nature and razzing of the other players.

Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife, Cheryl, of Hospers; a daughter and her husband, Heather and Troy Boniek, and their children, Kaylee, Elizabeth and Samuel, of Willmar, Minnesota; two sons and their wives, Dan and Julie Jacobsma, and their children, Addison, Lucas and Andrew, of Sheldon; and Mike and Ashley Jacobsma, and their children, Keegan and Karter, of Le Mars; two sisters and their husbands, Linda and Ray Koens, of Brandon, South Dakota; and Carol and Gordan Tinklenberg, of Lincoln Nebraska; along with numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins.

Memorials will be given to Bible League International.

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David A. Davison - January 18, 1959 - September 13, 2023

Departed: 09/13/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. David Davison, age 64, of Hospers, passed away on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at the Orange City Area Health System.

There will be no services at this time.

The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is assisting the family.

David Andre was the son of the late David Andre Kuhn and the late Marcia (Boehm) Gary. He was raised by his adoptive father, Albert Seymour Davison.

He was a Veteran of the United States Navy, serving as a Second-Class Petty Officer. He was stationed at Great Lakes, Illinois, the Naval Technical Training Center in Meridian, Mississippi, the United States Naval Communication Station in Puerto Rico, and as a plank owner of the USS Comte De Grasse (DD-974) homeported in Norfolk, Virginia.

David worked as a substitute teacher and teaching assistant in public schools and as a teacher for Seventh-day Adventist and other Christian schools in the United States, South Korea, Macau, and the Philippines. Before retiring, Mr. Davison worked at the United States Department of Veterans’ Affairs Outpatient Clinic at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines.

His hobbies included researching his family tree, traveling, and studying religion.

Survivors include his loving wife, Amy; his son Michael Davison; his sisters, Diane Brobeck and Deborah Hiles; his brother, Daryl Davison; and two generations of nieces and nephews.

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Philip J. Rensink - April 13, 1962 - July 17, 2023

Departed: 07/17/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Philip Rensink, age 61, of Hospers, passed away on Monday, July 17, 2023, at the Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Saturday, July 22, from 9:30am to 10:30am, at the Trinity Reformed Church Hospers Campus. There will be a funeral service on Saturday, at 11:00am, at the church with the Rev. Harlan De Jong officiating. Following a luncheon and time of fellowship, interment will take place at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Philip Jay was born on April 13, 1962, in Orange City, the youngest of six children born to Gilbert and Kathryn (Swets) Rensink. He grew up on a farm east of Hospers and graduated from Floyd Valley High School.

Following high school, Phil attended Northwestern College in Orange City, where he played basketball for the Red Raiders. He later returned to his parents’ farm and eventually took over farming the land, growing corn and beans. He also spent many Decembers in Pompano Beach, Florida, where he worked for Hart-T Tree Farms selling Christmas trees.

Mr. Rensink was a lifelong member of the First Reformed Church in Hospers, which later became the Trinity Reformed Church Hospers Campus. He was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team and liked to go fishing. He also enjoyed family get-togethers and especially appreciated spending time with his nieces and nephews.

Survivors include his five siblings, Carol, and her husband, Don Kohlstedt, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Glenda, and her husband, Harlan De Jong, of Sioux Center; Judy Rowenhorst, of Orange City; Robert Rensink, and his wife, Karen, of Denver, Colorado; and Laura, and her husband, Arlin Roskam, of Sioux Center; as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Leon Rowenhorst.

Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation.

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Pearl M. Haack - July 16, 1930 - July 11, 2023

Departed: 07/11/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Pearl Haack, age 92, of North Kansas City, Missouri, formerly of Hospers, passed away on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at her daughter’s home in North Kansas City.

There will be a funeral service on Saturday, July 15, at 10:30am, at the Trinity Reformed Church Hospers Campus with the Rev. Milton Sikkema officiating. Refreshments and a time of visitation with the family will take place at the church following the interment at the Hospers Cemetery in rural Hospers. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Pearl Marjorie Haack, the daughter of Clarence and Johanna (Solsma) Adema, was born on July 16, 1930, in rural Sheldon. She attended country school, as well as a school in Bellflower, California, from ages ten to fourteen. On October 22, 1948, she was united in marriage to James Haack at the First Reformed Church in Sheldon. They made their home in Mitchelville for a short time, where Jim worked for an implement dealership, and then moved to Primghar. In 1952 the family moved to a family farm near Hospers, and in 1978 they sold the farm and bought a home in Hospers. Jim passed away on January 2, 2000, in Hospers, after more than 51 years of marriage. Pearl relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, in May of 2014, where she passed away.

Pearl and Jim were members of the Primghar Reformed Church and then later transferred their membership to the Hospers First Reformed Church. She was active in many church organizations, including serving in several offices of the Women’s Guild, as a member of the Dorcas Circle, singing in the church choirs, teaching Sunday School and serving with Jim as RCYF sponsors. Pearl was also an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary for 37 years. She enjoyed playing cards and Bunco, doing hand embroidery, and cherished the Christmas season. Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchild were very special to her.

Pearl leaves in loving memory her two children and their spouses, Galen and Joan Haack, of Hospers; and Noreen and Chet Wittwer, of Kansas City, Missouri; six grandchildren and their spouses, Jim and Julie Haack; Dan and Janie Haack; Laura and Eric Evink; Amy and Jimmy Dragon; David and Jasmine (Hebrink) Fonkert; and Michael and Maggie Fonkert; ten great-grandchildren, Ryan Haack; Drew Haack, and his wife, Brenna; Claire Haack; Emily Haack; Nash Haack; Sterling Haack; Anna Evink; Ross Evink; Kellan Fonkert; and James Fonkert; one great-great grandchild, Cash Haack; three step great-grandchildren, Tyus Dragon; Max Dragon; and Valerie Bracy; and a sister, Alma Westra, of Sheldon.

In addition to her parents, Clarence and Johanna Adema, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; her daughter, Sheryl Haack; a sister and her husband, Marilyn and Gerald Verhoef; a brother-in-law, Jake Westra; and Jim’s siblings and spouses, Tillie and Byron Hougen; John and Edna Haack; and Clarence and Marian Haack.

Memorials will be given to the Reuter American Legion Auxiliary in Hospers.

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Frederick J. Kramer - March 19, 1950 - June 27, 2023

Departed: 06/27/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Fred Kramer, age 73, of Hospers, passed away on Tuesday, June 27, at the Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Sunday, July 16, from 2:00pm to 3:00pm at the Oolman Funeral Home in Orange City. There will be a memorial service on Sunday, at 3:00pm, at the funeral home with the Rev. Adam Van Der Stoep officiating. Interment will be at the Hospers Cemetery at a later date. A recording will be available following the service

Frederick Jay was born on March 19, 1950, in Sheldon, the son of Jacob and Arlene (Uittenbogaard) Kramer. He was raised in Hospers where he attended Hospers Christian Elementary School. Thereafter, he attended Western Christian High School in Hull. Fred received his GED from Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon.

He was united in marriage to Bonita Faye Van Dyke on November 26, 1977, at the Hospers First Reformed Church. While they had multiple cities they called home during their marriage, most recently it was Sheldon. Fred enjoyed driving truck, operating a concrete pump truck and a pneumatic tanker for Russell’s Ready Mix and GCC Alliance Concrete, and later a payloader in his retirement years.

Fred was a member of the First Reformed Church in Hospers. He enjoyed fishing and boating but found the most joy in being around his family, especially his grandchildren, and attending their sporting events. There were few sporting events he was not present at to cheer his grandchildren on. Fred’s love for his family was evident to anyone who knew him. His witty sense of humor and the endless stories he shared will be missed.

Survivors include his wife of more than 45 years, Bonnie, of Sheldon; four sons, Nicholas Kramer and his wife, Heidi, of Hull; Joshua Kramer and his wife, Mandi, of Hospers; Matthew Kramer and Michael Kramer, both of Sheldon; four grandchildren, Jacob, Brevyn, Aayden and Aubyn Kramer; two sisters, Judith and her husband, John Solsma, of Hospers; and Luann Kramer of Bradenton, Florida; a brother, Dale “Butch” and his wife, Vicki, of Hospers; two sisters-in-law, Ramona and her husband, Brian Garvey, of Orange City; and Kim Van Dyke of Mena, Arkansas; and a brother-in-law and his wife, Randall and Judith Van Dyke of Spencer; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Dustin Kramer; his mother and father-in-law, Ray and Alice Van Dyke; and a brother-in-law, Wayne Van Dyke.

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Henrietta M. Kamstra-Roetman - August 10, 1927 - June 26, 2023

Departed: 06/26/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Henrietta Kamstra-Roetman, age 95, of Sheldon, formerly of Hospers, was called home to the loving arms of Jesus on, June 26, 2023, at the Sanford Senior Care Center in Sheldon.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Friday, July 7, from 10:00am to 10:30am, at the Community Center in Hospers. There will be a funeral service on Friday, at 10:30am, at the Community Center with the Rev. Paul Van Maaren officiating. Interment will follow the service at the Newkirk Cemetery. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Henrietta Mae was born on August 10, 1927, in Alton, the only child born to John and Jennie (Roelfson) Kamstra. She was raised on farms near Hospers and Newkirk and attended Lynn Independent Grade School. In 1945, she graduated from Newkirk High School. After her father’s passing, she and her mother made their home in Hospers. During her working years Henrietta was employed as a clerk at Council Oak Grocery, Hasting Photography, Hospers Savings Bank, and Wolff Department Store, as well as faithfully caring for her mother.

Henrietta met and fell in love with Albert Roetman, through Albert’s sister Clarine. On October 21, 1981, they were married at the Little Brown Church, in Nashua, Iowa. Through their marriage, Henrietta became stepmother to Vickie June Bromley, Lois McCalman, and Cliff Chadwick, step-grandmother to Jason and Jennifer Bromley, and step-great-grandmother to George, Amelia, Bruce, Crissalyn, and Delivia Zimmer, as well as Logan and Sonya Bromley.

During her marriage to Albert, the couple enjoyed traveling between California and Iowa. After Albert’s passing, she became a world traveler to destinations like Holland, Israel, and Europe. Henrietta relived her trips through the meticulous scrapbooks and photo albums she created after each one. She later moved to the Christian Retirement Home in Sheldon before becoming a resident of Sanford Senior Care Center in Sheldon. Henrietta had been a member of the Hospers Presbyterian Church and was currently a member of First Reformed Church in Sheldon.

She is survived by a stepdaughter, Vickie (Randy) Bromley; two step grandchildren, Jason (Lauren) Bromley and Jennifer (Daniel) Zimmer; seven step great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Annabelle Bartling; and nieces and nephew, Connie Roghair, Wanda Jolitz, Deanna Van Riesen, Sheila Marra, Laura Westphalen, and Terry Bartling.

She will be sorely missed and was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Albert; stepdaughter, Lois McCalman; stepson, Cliff Chadwick; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Clarine and Les Van Beek and Dorothy and Willard “Whip” Oldenkamp; and mother-in-law, Dena Hulst.

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Wendell J. Dekker - February 20, 1946 - May 23, 2023

Departed: 05/23/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Wendell Dekker, age 77, of Hospers, passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at the Happy Siesta Health Care Center in Remsen.

There will be a funeral service on Monday, June 19, at 10:00am, at the Newkirk Reformed Church in rural Hospers with the Rev. Dr. Brian Janssen officiating. Refreshments and a time of visitation with the family will take place at the church following the interment at the Newkirk Cemetery in rural Hospers. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Wendell Jay was born on February 20, 1946, in Orange City, the son of Gerrit and Clarissa (De Jong) Dekker. He was raised on a farm near Newkirk and received his grade school education from Newkirk School, and attended Floyd Valley High School, in Alton.

In 1965, Wendell moved to Hospers with his parents and worked with his father as a cleanup man at Hospers Packing Plant for seven years. He was then the custodian for the Hospers Christian School for sixteen years, retiring in 1991. In October of 2022, he became a resident of the Happy Siesta Health Care Center.

Wendell was a member of the Newkirk Reformed Church.

Survivors include his sister, Debra Dekker, of Washington D.C.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials will be given to the family for future designation.

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Marjorie J. Van Surksum - February 20, 1940 - February 18, 2023

Departed: 02/18/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Marjorie Van Surksum, age 82, of Sheldon, formerly of Hospers, passed away on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at the Sanford Health Sheldon Care Center. PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE IN DATES AND TIMES DUE TO THE FORECAST

A visitation with the family present will be held on Friday, February 24, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. A prayer service will take place on Saturday, February 25, at 10:00am, at the church, followed by interment at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, at 11:00am, at the church with the Rev. Duane Tinklenberg officiating. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Marjorie Joann was born on February 20, 1940, on the family farm near Inwood, the daughter of Cornelius and Martha (Van Tol) Feikema. She grew up on the farm and attended a nearby country school and the Inwood Christian School before graduating from Western Christian High School in Hull. After high school, she moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, and enrolled in airline school to become a stewardess. “Marge” later moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she met “Bill”, her future husband.

On September 22, 1962, she was united in marriage to William Fredrick Van Surksum, in Grand Rapids. Six months later, they moved to a farm near Hospers, where they would raise their family. In addition to being a wife and mother, she worked several bookkeeping jobs, including at Iowa Farm Business Association and Sheldon Farmer’s Market. In 2007, Bill and Marge retired from farming and moved to Sheldon, and in November of 2022, she became a resident of the Sanford Health Sheldon Care Center.

Marge was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers, where she was involved with the Calvinettes, Golden Hour, and the church library program. She also volunteered with Bible League International and was part of the Women’s National Pork Board. In earlier years, she enjoyed participating in a bowling league, and more recently, she looked forward to having coffee with her friends and attending her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s church and school events. She and Bill also enjoyed going camping and traveling, visiting almost all fifty states on their motorcycle. They also spent several winters in Tampa, Florida and Cary, Mississippi, where they volunteered as part of an outreach ministry through the Christian Reformed Church.

Survivors include her husband of more than sixty years, Bill, of Sheldon; three children and their spouses, Michael and Nancy Van Surksum, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Nancy and Dan Foster, of Hospers; and Brad and Kim Van Surksum, of Harrisburg, South Dakota; ten grandchildren, Ryan (Cady) Van Surksum; Andy Van Surksum; Tyler Van Surksum; Lexi (Christian) Kasel; Renae (Brandon) Ruschill; Jenna (boyfriend, Travis Weber) Meines; Carolynn Meines; Karissa (Brendan) Miedema; Kassidy Van Surksum; and Bennett Van Surksum; two great-grandchildren, Addison Van Surksum and Jordan Van Surksum; six siblings, Betty Bolkema, of Hull; Karolyn Van Engen, of Sioux Center; Ann Feikema, of Sioux Falls; Arlene (Art) Stellinga, of Rock Valley; Casey (Rose) Feikema, of Luverne, Minnesota; and Lori (Ron) Bruxvoort, of Erie, Colorado; and two sisters-in-law, Ella Horjus, of Grand Rapids, and Wilma Vink, of Sheldon.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by seven brothers-in-law, John Bolkema, Arn Van Engen, Ken Kelderman, Mart Horjus, Marv Vink, John (Vonnie) Van Surksum, and an infant also named Bill Van Surksum; and a sister-in-law, Carrie (Rich) Venema.

Memorials will be given to Bible League International.

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Carol Schwartz - September 18, 1959 - February 07, 2023

Departed: 02/07/2023 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Carol Schwartz, age 63, of Hospers, passed away on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at the Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Friday, February 10, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers. There will be a private family funeral service on Saturday, February 11, at the funeral home with the Rev. Fr. Daniel Greving officiating. Interment will follow the service at the St. Anthony’s Catholic Cemetery in Hospers.

Carol Jean was born on September 18, 1959, in Sioux City, one of three daughters born to Harley Vesti and Betty Jean (Keller) Andersen. She grew up in Kingsley, where she attended the public school. She loved music, and in high school she was a participant in the school’s band and choir programs.

Following her graduation from the Kingsley-Pierson High School, she worked as a manager for several businesses in the Sioux City area. On June 3, 2000, she was united in marriage to John Bryan Schwart in Sheldon. Together they made their home in Hospers, and Carol worked as a manager at the Taco John’s restaurant in Orange City.

Carol enjoyed spending time with her family, attending car shows, and going shopping. Time spent riding her Harley motorcycle was particularly enjoyable for her, so much so, that she named her cat, Harley.

She is survived by her husband of more than 22 years, John, of Hospers; two sons, Kelly Andersen, of Akron; and Kevin Kirchner, and his wife, Kari, of Yankton, South Dakota; three grandchildren, Ravyn Andersen; and Jaycee and Gavin Kirchner; two sisters and their husbands, Karen and Tom Bennett, of Denver, Colorado; and Susan and Mike Nash, of South Sioux City, Nebraska; John’s parents, Al and Marlene Schwartz, of Hospers; his brother and his wife, Alan and Reneé Schwartz, of Nashville, Tennessee; and his sister and her husband, Lori and Dennis Abele, of Sheldon; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorials may be given to the family for future designation.

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Sharol D. Miedema - September 04, 1946 - October 19, 2022

Departed: 10/19/2022 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Sharol Miedema, age 76, of Sheldon, formerly of Hospers, passed away on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at the Sanford Senior Care in Sheldon.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Monday, October 24, from 5:30pm to 7:00pm, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. A prayer service will take place on Tuesday, October 25, at 10:00am, at the church, followed by interment at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers. There will be a memorial service on Tuesday, at 11:00am, at the church with the Rev. Aaron Gonzalez officiating. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Sharol Diane was born on September 4, 1946, in Primghar, the daughter of Leland and Edna (Dewey) Williams. She was raised in the Archer area, where she attended the Archer Consolidated School through the nineth grade. She graduated from the Sheldon High School and took one year of classes at the Nettleton Business College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

On March 27, 1967, she was united in marriage to Nelvin Gary Miedema at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. They made their home in Hospers until 2006, when they moved to Sheldon. She worked at Village Northwest Unlimited in Sheldon for over 25 years, helping in the work activity center and overseeing a residential home, retiring in 2011. In October of 2019, she became a resident at Sanford Senior Care.

Mrs. Miedema was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. She enjoyed bowling in a league when she was younger, shopping for her grandchildren, spending time with her family at Lake Okoboji, traveling, reading, and socializing over coffee with her friends.

Survivors include her husband of more than 55 years, Nick, of Sheldon; three children, Nicky, and her husband, Jerry Cline, of Cedar Rapids; Lisa Clark, of Marion; and Scott Miedema, and his wife, Jennifer, of Ireton; six grandchildren, Braeden, Easton, and Camryn Clark; Erin Miedema, and her fiancé, Drew Gustafson, and Megan and Sydney Miedema; three sisters, Janice, and her husband, Russell Linstrom; Bonnie Brink; and Betty Van Meeteren; a brother and his wife, Bill and Melissa Williams; four sisters-in-law, Marian Williams; Kathy Williams; Mary Miedema; and Sharlene Miedema; and a brother-in-law and his wife, Andrew and Joan Miedema.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Vyrl Clark; two brothers, Thomas Williams and Kenneth Williams; two brothers-in-law, Rodney Brink and Rodney Van Meeteren; a sister-in-law and her husband, Berdena and Kenneth Roos; and three brothers-in-law, Edward Miedema, and his wife, Lucille; Henry Miedema; and Robert Miedema.

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Darla F. Vande Weerd - April 14, 1953 - August 23, 2022

Departed: 08/23/2022 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Darla Vande Weerd, age 69, of Alton, Iowa, and Bruce, South Dakota, passed away on Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at her residence in Bruce.

There will be a funeral service on Monday, August 29, at 3:00pm, at the Hospers Community Center with the Rev. Gregg Te Beest officiating. Interment will follow the service at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers. A meal and time of visitation with the family will be held at the community center, following the interment. Arrangements are with the Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers.

Darla Faye was born on April 14, 1953, in Orange City, the second of three daughters born to Harvey “Butch” and Nellie Marie De Bruin. She grew up in Hospers where she attended the Hospers Christian School before graduating from the Western Christian High School in Hull. She then earned her associates degree in nursing from the Northwest Iowa Vocational School in Sheldon.

On June 3, 1971, she was united in marriage to John A. Vande Weerd. They made their home and raised their family on a farm south of Hospers, as well as on a farm near Bruce, South Dakota. In addition to helping John on the farm and being the “best grain cart driver in the world”, she worked as a nurse for thirteen years at the Sioux Valley Hospital and the Sioux Falls Children’s Hospital, both in Sioux Falls.

Darla enjoyed going fishing, watching her family at the races, doing various crafts, and bird watching. She especially loved being a grandmother and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband of more than 51 years, John, of Alton and Bruce; four children and their spouses, Gina and Jason Vacura, of Le Mars; Stacie and Mark Klosterman, of Anna, Ohio; Harvey and Leah Vande Weerd, of Alton; and Steve and Jane Vande Weerd, of Lead Hill, Arkansas; eleven grandchildren, Sam, Anna, Daniel, and Sarah Vacura; Sydney, Tayler and Brooke Klosterman; Cameron Vande Weerd, and his wife, Emily; Connor Vande Weerd; Hope, and her husband, Johnathon Crowhurst; and Austin Verdoorn, and his wife, Chelsea; six great-grandchildren; and a sister and her husband, Lonnie and Lyle Gorter, of Escondido, California.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister and her husband, Carol and Larry Fliear.

Memorials may be given to the Brookings Health System Hospice in Brookings, South Dakota.

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Marlene K. Woudstra - January 06, 1940 - June 09, 2022

Departed: 06/09/2022 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Marlene Woudstra, age 82, of Hospers, passed away on June 9, 2022, at the Sanford USD Medical Center and Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Tuesday, June 14, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. There will be a funeral service on Wednesday, June 15, at 10:30am, at the church with the Rev. Duane Tinklenberg and the Rev. Aaron Gonzalez officiating. Following a time of lunch and fellowship, interment will take place at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Marlene Kaye was born on January 6, 1940, on her family’s farm southeast of Sanborn, the daughter of Jake and Nellie (Zonnefeld) Elgersma. She grew up on the farm with her four siblings and attended the Sanborn Christian School and the Western Christian High School in Hull, graduating in 1957.

She was united in marriage to Irwin Wendell Woudstra on June 25, 1958, at the Sanborn Christian Reformed Church. The couple made their home in Hospers, where they raised their three children. In addition to being a wife and mother, Marlene helped “Irv” in the operation of their businesses, first Woudstra Pack and later Irv’s Clover Farm grocery store. During her retirement years, she worked part-time at Hospers Furniture, and in 2014, she and Irv moved to an apartment in the ten-plex on the east side of Hospers. Irv passed away on November 1 of last year, in Sioux Falls, after more than 63 years of marriage.

Mrs. Woudstra was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church and the church’s Priscilla Society. She cherished her role as a grandmother, and she and Irv together frequented their grandchildren’s various extracurricular activities. Her family will remember her as an excellent cook, often spending Saturdays in the kitchen in preparation for Sunday dinner for her family. In earlier years, Marlene enjoyed going camping and spending time at the lake; more recently she looked forward to morning coffee with her neighbors. She liked to do embroidery work and to play card and board games.

She is survived by her three children and their spouses, Cindy and Gene Vander Griend, of Sioux Falls; Kris and Kevin Kooistra, of Hospers; and Jay and Dawn Woudstra, of Sioux Falls; six grandchildren, Brent Vander Griend, and his wife, Tracy; Nathan Vander Griend, and his wife, Erin; Kelly Kooistra, and his wife, Liz; Keith Kooistra, and his wife, Brittney; Jordyn Woudstra; and Joel Woudstra, and his wife, Katie; eleven great-grandchildren, Taylor, Bailey, Paityn, Griffin, Evie, Indie, and Lettie Vander Griend, and Ike, Bentley, Tatum, and Raelle Kooistra; a brother and his wife, Jack and Carol Elgersma; a sister-in-law, Betty Elgersma; and a brother-in-law, Rudy Jacobsen; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by Irv’s parents, Isaac and Willemina Woudstra; two sisters, Janice, and her husband, Jim Van Engen; and Frances Jacobsen; a brother, Pierson Elgersma; a brother-in-law and his wife, Lloyd and Trudy Woudstra; and a sister-in-law and her husband, Gwen and Bernie Bousema.

Memorials will be given to the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers.

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Joan Oldenkamp - May 19, 1931 - April 02, 2022

Departed: 04/02/2022 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Joan Oldenkamp, age 90, of Orange City, formerly of Hospers, passed away on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at the Happy Siesta Care Center in Remsen.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Saturday, April 9, from 9:30am to 10:30am, at the First Presbyterian Church in Hospers. There will be a funeral service on Saturday, at 11am, at the church with the Rev. Dr. Brian Janssen officiating. Interment will follow the service at the Hospers Cemetery. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Joan was born on May 19, 1931, in Orange City, the daughter of Herman and Ada (Mieras) Dykstra. She was raised on her parents’ farm in rural Orange City and graduated from the Orange City High School in 1949.

On April 12, 1951, she was united in marriage to John Junior Oldenkamp in Orange City. They made their home in Hospers for more than 68 years, where Joan was a homemaker and seamstress. In June of 2019, they moved to the Pioneer Memorial Home in Orange City. Junior passed away on October 12, 2020, in Orange City, after more than 69 years of marriage, and shortly after Joan moved to Fieldcrest Assisted Living in Sheldon. In February of this year, she became a resident of the Happy Siesta Care Center.

Mrs. Oldenkamp was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Hospers, where she was involved in various church groups. She and Junior enjoyed traveling south for the winter months and she liked to play cards and games.

Survivors include three children and their spouses, Jane and Jerry Beltman, of Hospers; and their family, Kristi (Shane) Fuller, of Norwalk; Mark (Nicole) Beltman, of Orange City; and Brad (LuCinda) Beltman, of Waukee; Nancy and Larry Bosma, of Hospers; and their family, Natalie (Joshua) Sandbulte, of Milford; Mike (Jen) Bosma, of Hospers; and Kevin (Kim) Bosma, of Sioux Center; and Doug and Carolyn Oldenkamp, of Corning; sixteen great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law and her husband, Jan and Al Kyhl, of Mesa, Arizona.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother and his wife, George and Shirley Dykstra; and four brothers-in-law, Luke Oldenkamp, and his wife, Jerrie; James Oldenkamp, and his wife, Darlene; Harry Oldenkamp; and Gilbert Oldenkamp, and his wife, Bobbi.

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Gertrude M. Woudstra - August 04, 1932 - April 02, 2022

Departed: 04/02/2022 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Gertrude “Trudy” Woudstra, age 89, of Sheldon, formerly of Hospers, passed away on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at Sioux Center Health.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Friday, April 8, from 12:00pm to 1:00pm, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. There will be a funeral service on Friday, at 1:30pm, at the church with the Rev. Aaron Gonzalez officiating. Interment will follow the service at the Hospers Cemetery. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Gertrude Marlene was born on August 4, 1932, in Orange City, one of seven children born to Sam and Lucy (De Jager) Ennema. She grew up in Orange City and Sheldon and attended the Sheldon Christian School through the eighth grade. As a young woman, she worked at several Sheldon businesses including the Quality Café, L’Trio Grill, Ben Franklin, and JC Penney.

“Trudy” was united in marriage to Lloyd Dale Woudstra on June 19, 1951, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. They made their home in Hospers, where Trudy was a homemaker for their growing family. In June of 1978, they relocated their family to Sheldon. Lloyd passed away on November 11, 2006, in Orange City, after more than 55 years of marriage. In March of 2015, Trudy moved to Fieldcrest Assisted Living in Sheldon, and in June of 2020, she became a resident of the Royale Meadows Care Center in Sioux Center.

Mrs. Woudstra was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. She liked to cook and bake for her family, and her potato salad and sugar cookies were two of their favorites. She frequently stopped at garage sales and organized several of them herself. During her time at Fieldcrest and Royale Meadows, she enjoyed socializing with her friends and participating in the group activities, especially the hymn sings and playing Bingo. Her children and grandchildren were very important to her, and they will remember her as a loving, caring, and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

Survivors include her six children, Linda, and her husband, Roger Tiedeman; and Ila Johnson; all of Sheldon; Sharon, and her husband, Henry “Hank” Coulander, of Boyden; Wayne “Butch” Woudstra, of Sheldon; Shirley, and her husband, Merlin Ryks, of Sioux Center; and Bonnie, and her husband, Glen Bonnema, of Orange City; 18 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Marlene Woudstra, of Hospers; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by four sisters, Margaret Hackett, Kathryn Vander Plaats, Berdella Brown, and Dorothy Zuercher; two brothers, Larry Ennema and Martin Ennema; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Memorials may be given to the Woudstra Family for future designation.

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Alvin S. Stuit - November 19, 1944 - April 02, 2022

Departed: 04/02/2022 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Alvin Stuit, age 77, of Hospers, passed away on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at his residence.

A visitation with the family present will be held on Wednesday, April 6, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. A prayer service will take place on Thursday, at 10:00am, at the church. Interment will follow the prayer service at Hospers Cemetery. There will be a memorial service on Thursday, at 11:00am, at the church with the Rev. Cory Van Sloten officiating. The Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers is in charge of arrangements.

Alvin Sidney was born on November 19, 1944, in Orange City, the son of Ralph and Martha (Pott) Stuit. He was raised on the family farm near Hospers and attended the Hospers Christian School and Western Christian High School in Hull.

On June 9, 1965, he married Julie Ann Hofmeyer at the Hospers Presbyterian Church. They made their home on a farm near Hospers, where they raised their four children. In addition to being a farmer, he worked at Banner Beef, and the Farmers Cooperative in Sioux Center for 25 years.

Mr. Stuit was a lifelong member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers, where he was a deacon and youth group leader. He was also a township leader, enjoyed farm auctions and sales, helping Julie with freezing, canning, and gardening, preparing meats for family gatherings, and attending his grandchildren’s events.

Survivors include his wife of more than 56 years, Julie; his four children and their spouses, Jolynn and Scott Van De Berg; Arla and Cory Van Sloten; Brent and Barb Stuit; and Rachel and Matt Olson; fourteen grandchildren, Sarah, and her husband, Chris Van Beek; Audra, and her husband, Kevin Christian; Weston, and his wife, Kelsey Van De Berg; Tyson Van De Berg; Devin Van Sloten; Drew Van Sloten; Justine, and her husband, Klay Byker; Dryce Van Sloten; Anmarie Stuit; Brayden Stuit, and his fiancé, Alexis Haverhals; Laina Stuit; Sydney Olson; Maddie Olson; and Sawyer Olson; five great-grandchildren; two sisters, Janice Poppema and Sandi Stuit.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Junior Poppema; Julie’s parents, Wesley and Johanna Hofmeyer; and Julie’s siblings, Robert and Jolene Hofmeyer; Wallace (Dean) and Alma Hofmeyer; Arvin Hofmeyer; Jan Hofmeyer; and Joann Hofmeyer in infancy.

Memorials will be given to ATLAS of Orange City and Orange City Area Home Health and Hospice.

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Leland T. Woudstra - April 26, 1934 - March 03, 2022

Departed: 03/03/2022 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Leland “Lee” Woudstra, age 87, of Hospers, passed away on Thursday, March 3, 2022, at the Crown Pointe Estates Care Center in Sioux Center.

There will be a memorial service on Tuesday, March 8, at 11:00am, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. The Rev. Duane Tinklenberg and The Rev. Aaron Gonzalez will officiate. Interment will be prior to the memorial service at the Hospers Cemetery. There will be a prayer service on Tuesday, at 10:00am, at the church. Visitation with the family will be on Monday, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, also at the church. Arrangements are with the Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers.

Leland “Lee” Theodore was born on April 26, 1934, on a farm near Hospers, the son of Theodore and Dora (Zylstra) Woudstra. When he was still a toddler, his family moved to a farm near Bigelow, Minnesota, where Lee attended country school. His parents later returned to Hospers where he was a student at the Hospers Christian School and Western Christian High School in Hull. As a young man, Lee purchased a tractor and began farming near Sheldon. He also worked at the Sheldon Sale Barn and drove truck until enlisting in the United States Army in January of 1956.

On December 28, 1956, while on leave from the military, Lee was united in marriage to Mary Faith Roghair at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. The newlyweds briefly lived in Hawaii while Lee was stationed at the Schofield Barracks Army Base, working as a mechanic. Following his honorable discharge in 1957, he and Mary moved to a farm northwest of Hospers, where they raised their family and made their home for more than 46 years. In 2002, Lee and Mary moved to an acreage south of Hospers where Lee remained until October of 2019, when he became a resident of the Royale Meadows Care Center in Sioux Center.

Mr. Woudstra was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church where he had been active as a deacon, an elder, and as a Cadet Counselor. He was also a member of the Reuter American Legion Post in Hospers and Gideons International and a past board member for the Christian School and the Famers Cooperative Elevator, both in Hospers, and served as part of the Farm Services Agency Committee. In earlier years, Lee enjoyed going camping, riding horseback, and snowmobiling. He and Mary spent numerous winters traveling the southern United States, but when they were home, Lee could often be found at the OK One Stop in Hospers having coffee with his friends.

Survivors include his wife of more than 65 years, Mary, of Hospers; four children and their spouses, Alan and Sandra Woudstra, of Hospers; Jeanne and Phillip Kleinhesselink, and Brenda and Ward Van Peursem, all of Alton; and Dale and Tonia Woudstra, of Sioux Center; eight grandchildren, Tyler Woudstra, and his wife, April; Amanda Woudstra; Cody Kleinhesselink, and his wife, Sara; Logan Kleinhesselink, and his wife, Danielle; Kelsey, and her husband, Brent Koops; Levi Van Peursem; Zachary Woudstra; and Hannah Woudstra; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Donna Vander Veen, of Sanborn; a brother-in-law and his wife, Sye and Ruth Roghair, of Orange City; three sisters-in-law, Caroline Valencia, of Visalia, California; Sylvia Bellonger, of Sioux Falls; and Wilma “Billie” Muilenburg, of Hospers; along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant brother, Theodore, Jr.; a sister-in-law and her husband, Dorothy and Norman Klynsma; and three brothers-in-law, Allen Vander Veen, Carlos Valencia, and Robert Muilenburg.

Memorials will be given to local Christian education.

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Irwin Woudstra - September 24, 1938 - November 01, 2021

Departed: 11/01/2021 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Irwin Woudstra, age 83, of Hospers, passed away on Monday, November 1, 2021, at the Sanford USD Medical Center and Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

There will be a funeral service on Friday, November 5, at 10:30am, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. The Rev. Duane Tinklenberg and The Rev. Aaron Gonzalez will officiate. Following a time of lunch and fellowship, interment will be at the Hospers Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be on Thursday, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, at the church.

Arrangements are with the Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers.

Irwin Wendell was born on September 24, 1938, in rural Hospers, the son of Isaac “Ike” and Willemina (Reinsma) Woudstra. He was raised on a farm near Hospers and attended the Hospers Christian Elementary School and the Western Christian High School in Hull. “Irv” joined the United States Army in 1957, and was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and Fort Ord, California. He was medically discharged after serving his country for a year and proceeded to work for his dad at Woudstra Pack in Hospers. He went on to buy Woudstra Pack and owned it for several years before purchasing a grocery store, Irv’s Clover Farm. After owning the grocery store for a number of years, he sold it and worked for Woudstra Meats in Orange City for a short time. He missed owning his own business and repurchased Irv‘s Clover Farm for a second time. He owned the grocery store for several more years before selling again. Not wanting to give up working completely, he worked for Casey’s Bakery part-time in Sioux Center, before completely retiring.

He married the love of his life, Marlene Elgersma, on June 25, 1958, at the Sanborn Christian Reformed Church. Irv was a life-long member of First Christian Reformed Church of Hospers. He faithfully served in various capacities, such as elder, deacon, Cadet leader, and also as janitor for a time. Irv also served on the Hospers Christian School and Western Christian School Boards. He enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids and faithfully attended all of their events. Irv also enjoyed golfing, boating, and time at the lake in Minnesota with family. He spent countless hours entertaining his kids and grandkids on the water. In his younger years, he also enjoyed playing on church league softball teams, where he manned first base. He also played a mean game of horse on the driveway and always had the unstoppable left-handed hook! Irv loved to sing and was part of a quartet for most of his life.

Grateful for having shared his life, are his wife of more than 63 years, Marlene; their three children and their spouses, Cindy and Gene Vander Griend, of Sioux Falls; Kris and Kevin Kooistra, of Hospers; and Jay and Dawn Woudstra, of Sioux Falls; six grandchildren, Brent Vander Griend, and his wife, Tracy; Nathan Vander Griend, and his wife, Erin; Kelly Kooistra, and his wife, Liz; Keith Kooistra, and his wife, Brittney; Jordyn Woudstra; and Joel Woudstra, and his wife, Katie; ten great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Trudy Woudstra and Betty Elgersma; and a brother-in-law and his wife, Jack and Carol Elgersma.

In addition to his parents and his wife’s parents, Jake and Nellie Elgersma, he was proceded in death by a brother, Lloyd Woudstra; a sister and her husband, Gwen and Bernie Bousema, two sisters-in-law, Francis Jacobsen; and Janice, and her husband Jim Van Engen; and a brother-in-law, Pierson Elgersma.

Memorials may be directed to the Hospers Ambulance Services.

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Junior J. Poppema - February 09, 1936 - October 18, 2021

Departed: 10/18/2021 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Junior Poppema, age 85, of Hospers, passed away on Monday, October 18, 2021, at the Orange City Area Health System.

There will be a memorial service on Thursday, October 21, at 2:00pm, at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. The Rev. John Klompien will officiate. Interment will be prior to the service at the Hospers Cemetery near Hospers. There will be a family prayer service on Thursday, at 1:00pm, at the Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers. Visitation with the family will be on Wednesday, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, at the funeral home.

Junior John was born on February 9, 1936, in Hospers, the son of Steve and Jeanette (Peters) Poppema. He grew up on a farm northwest of Hospers and attended the Hospers Christian Grade School and Western Christian High School in Hull. Following his graduation, he worked for Ziggers Carpentry in Hospers until enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in 1956. He was stationed in Japan where he operated heavy equipment, building roads and bridges, and was honorably discharged in 1958.

On June 3, 1959, he was united in marriage to Janice Stuit at the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers. They made their home in Hospers and Junior worked for Culligan Water Service in Sheldon, and he and Janice briefly operated the Kountry Kitchen. Junior also worked for Russell’s Ready Mix in Orange City, Fenn’s Dairy in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Wells Blue Bunny in Le Mars. He then accepted a position as an insurance agent with Prins Insurance in Sheldon. In 1985, he established Poppema Insurance Agency in Hospers and later earned his realty license as well. Junior retired in 2012, and he and Janice operated J&J Consignment in Hospers, and Junior continued to sell real estate until 2015.

Junior was a lifelong member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Hospers, where he was baptized, served as deacon, elder, and Cadet leader, sang with the Men’s Quartet, and played on the church slow pitch softball team until the age of fifty. He was also a member of the Reuter American Legion Post, volunteered on the Hospers Ambulance team, pitched for the Hospers fast pitch softball team, and served on the Board of Directors for the Hospers Christian School, Unity Christian High School, Dordt College, the Sheldon Hospital, and the Pioneer Memorial Home. His most enjoyable activities were fishing and vacationing at various resorts in Minnesota with his family, whom he loved dearly.

Survivors include his wife of more than 62 years, Janice, of Hospers; four children and their spouses, Jeff and Dawn Poppema, of Backus, Minnesota; and Jackie and Del Walinga, Jim and Lauri Poppema, and Joe and Gina Poppema, all of Orange City; thirteen grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; a sister and her husband, Carol and Jerry De Vries; a brother and his wife, Howard and Joyce Poppema; two sisters-in-law, Donna Poppema and Sandi Stuit; a brother-in-law and his wife, Alvin and Julie Stuit; and many nephews and nieces.

In addition to his parents and parents-in-law, Ralph and Martha Stuit, he was preceded in death by two brothers, John Jr. Poppema in infancy, and Roger Poppema.

Memorials may be directed to the Orange City Christian School or Unity Christian High School in Orange City.

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Barbara W. Jacobsma - June 01, 1927 - October 16, 2021

Departed: 10/16/2021 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Barbara Wilhelmina Jacobsma passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on October 16, 2021, in Long Beach, California. There will be a graveside service on June 1, 2022, at the Hospers Cemetery in Hospers, Iowa. Andy Miedema will be officiating.

Arrangements are with the Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers.

Barbara Wilhelmina Jacobsma was born on June 1, 1927, in Perry, Iowa, the daughter of Mildred and Louis Velman. She grew up in Iowa, along with her brother, Bill Velman. She was a brilliant woman and was determined to go to college. So much so, that she paid her own way through college by working in her parents’ cafe in Hospers. Barbara attended Iowa State College in Ames, and graduated with a degree in English and Home Economics.

Her teaching career began in Ames and continued through her retirement when she concluded her many years of teaching at the Norwalk La Mirada School District. Taking advantage of a United States government opportunity, she taught four years at the Pacific Islands Central School on the island of Pohnpei in Micronesia.

On June 1, 1951, Barbara made the best decision of her life when she married Stan Jacobsma of Hospers. They had an extraordinary relationship which could be summed up in her own words, “I had the best husband and you kids had the best father.” She was right of course, and their union began what was to be an adventure and a life well lived. Together they had five children. Stan passed away on September 22, 2006, after more than 55 years of marriage.

Barbara was a woman of many talents. She was a master educator, always providing unique learning tools for students who struggled. She was blessed with creativity and therefore a gifted seamstress, cook and musician, playing her clarinet up to the last days of her life. Most importantly, she was a devoted wife and mother and sacrificially gave all that she could to provide a home filled with love, faith, and good old common sense. On a very tight budget she made every birthday and holiday magical.

Barbara was an adventurous woman and in 1964 she was instrumental in moving the family to the island of Pohnpei in Micronesia. That four-year stay proved to be some of the most remarkable and rewarding years of life for the entire family. Over her lifetime she traveled along with her husband to many countries in Europe, China, Egypt, Israel, Amsterdam, and several islands in Micronesia. She also took many trips within the United States, visiting all fifty states. The last state, Alaska, was visited on an all-girls trip with her daughters and daughters-in-law.

Because she was lovingly cared for by her daughter and son-in-law, Suzette and Douglas Senecal, for the last years of her life, we were able to share her for 94 years, 4 months, and 16 days until she entered peacefully through the gates of heaven. Barbara leaves behind a legacy that will be treasured and remembered for generations to come, and we will miss her.

Survivors include her five children, Rex Jacobsma, and his wife, Karen; Pam Kuiken; Kim Jacobsma, and his wife, Laila; Suzette, and her husband, Douglas Senecal, and Sharry Weismann; thirteen grandchildren; and seventeen great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Jake Kuiken and her brother, Bill Velman.

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Anna Beth Magee - July 11, 1927 - September 20, 2021

Departed: 09/20/2021 (Hospers)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Anna Beth (Schaafsma) Magee, age 94, of Hospers, passed away peacefully and moved to her Heavenly home on September 20, 2021, at the Parc Hall Nursing Home in Emmetsburg.

There will be a funeral service on Saturday, September 25, at 12:00pm, at the Trinity Reformed Church in Hospers. The Rev. Harlan De Jong will officiate. Interment will follow the service at the Hospers Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be on Saturday, from 10:30am to 11:30am, at the church. Arrangements are with the Oolman Funeral Home in Hospers.

Anna Beth was born on July 11, 1927, on the family farm outside of Hospers, to loving parents, Cornelius and Grace (Hoffs) Schaafsma. She often recounted stories of her childhood and growing up on the farm in a strong Christian family. Attending a one room country school, Saturday chores, tending to the barnyard animals, and the smell of Sunday country dinner were some of her favorite memories.

At the age of fourteen, she met the only man she ever loved, Duane J. Magee, also of Hospers. They were married on December 26, 1946, following Duane’s return from Pacific Theatre of World War II. Together they would travel and explore the country and Europe for the next sixty years. They ventured to the mountains of Montana, where Duane attended the University of Montana. Finding a career in the oil business, Duane and Anna Beth followed the next oil boom from Colorado to the plains of North Dakota and Kansas, to Arkansas, and finally to the desert of West Texas. In 1987, they returned to Hospers, where they set about enjoying their golden years. They explored the magnificent sights of England, Ireland, Holland, France, Belgium, Austria, and Germany. They toured castles, museums, and followed in the footsteps of their ancestors who lived in these places long ago. In Holland, Anna Beth connected with her Dutch relatives, with whom she maintained a close friendship for many years.

Family meant everything to Anna Beth. Being a wife, raising her children, and providing a loving and Christian home was her life’s calling. Her quiet motto for maintaining a home and raising a family was “Do the edges and the middle will take care of itself.” She instilled in her children, Diane, Tom and Jack, the appreciation of hard work and the satisfaction of a job well done. The edges of her house were always neat and tidy providing for a happy and content family in the middle. The kitchen was the gathering spot for the family with Anna Beth making sour dough pancakes for Saturday breakfast, a hearty dinner, or baking the best peanut butter cookies in the world.

She followed Duane and set up homes in many different locales. Anna Beth often told stories of how Duane would come home from work on Friday and tell her they were moving to a different town over the weekend. Such was the life being married to a man climbing the ladder of success in the oil business during the 1950s and 1960s, a life so different from the farm she grew up on, but a life she cherished and loved.

Anna Beth maintained a strong Christian faith and the Church provided a foundation upon which she lived her life. Morning would find her reading scripture before the day’s activities began. At night she gave thanks for God’s bounty and said prayers for her family and friends. One of Anna Beth’s great accomplishments was when her family filled up an entire church pew during a Christmas service. Those who knew her describe her as a quiet, yet important member of the community, active in her church and the American Legion Auxiliary.

After her and Duane’s move back to Hospers, she discovered that the little necessities of life she grew up with during the Great Depression had a renewed sense of purpose for the modern age. Thus, inspiring her “career” as an avid antique dealer and the establishment of “Blue Cottage Antiques.” For many years, Saturdays would find her and Duane scouring the local auctions for trinkets and treasures to proudly display in her newly formed venture. In so doing, she was able to relive and remember her childhood, and relate her childhood to her children and grandchildren.

After Duane’s passing on February 6, 2006, Anna Beth enjoyed her days with family and friends, but Duane was never far from her thoughts, and she looked forward to the day when they would once again be together. To say she lived a full life is an understatement, she lived a wonderful life and she passed with no regrets.

Anna Beth was preceded in death by her husband Duane; her parents, Cornelius and Grace Schaafsma; and her siblings, Clifford Schaafsma and Alene Jacobsma.

She is survived by her three children, her daughter, Diane K. Magee of Midland, Texas, and her children, Dianna Dawn Germany; Sarah, and her husband, Danny Carroll; and Garrett T. Gaston, and his wife, Bailey Frederickson Gaston; her son, Thomas M. Magee, and his wife, Cindy Magee, of Emmetsburg, Iowa and their children, Ryan Magee; and Mica, and her husband, Jarrett Jones; and her son, Jack C. Magee and his wife, Dawn Magee, of Pierre, South Dakota, and their children, Kaitlyn Anna-Marie Magee; Daniel Carter Magee; and Kristoffer Callen Iwan; and nine great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Grace Germany Ellis, Ada Josephine Germany, Elias Germany, John Cassiam Germany, Jasper Charles Carroll, Wylder Clay Carroll, and Beckett Nolan Jones, Brock Weston Jones, and Boston Michael Jones.

Memorials may be directed to the Trinity Reformed Church Missions fund, the Christian Worship Hour, or the Okoboji Bible Conference.

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Personalized Funeral Services

Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers understands that every individual is unique, and their funeral service should reflect their personality, interests, and values. The funeral home offers a range of personalized services, including traditional funerals, cremations, memorial services, and celebrations of life. Their experienced staff will work closely with families to create a customized service that honors their loved one's memory and provides comfort during a difficult time.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families to gather and share memories of their loved ones. The spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while the visitation rooms offer an intimate setting for smaller groups. Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers also provides ample parking, comfortable seating areas, and convenient amenities to ensure that families feel supported throughout the funeral process.

Caring Staff

The staff at Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers are dedicated professionals who understand the importance of providing exceptional care and compassion during a family's time of need. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the staff will guide families through every step of the funeral process, offering emotional support, guidance, and reassurance.

Pre-Planning Services

Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers recognizes the importance of pre-planning funeral arrangements. By planning ahead, individuals can ensure that their final wishes are respected, alleviate the burden on their loved ones, and lock in costs at today's prices. The funeral home's experienced staff will work with individuals to create a personalized pre-plan that suits their needs and budget.

Community Involvement

Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers is deeply committed to the local community and participates in various initiatives to support those in need. From hosting grief support groups to sponsoring community events, the funeral home is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted funeral home in Hospers, Iowa, look no further than Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers. To learn more about their services or to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to contact them at (712) 752-8341 or visit their website at [website URL]. You can also visit them in person at 201 2nd Avenue, Hospers, IA, 51238.

A Final Word

Losing a loved one is never easy, but with Oolman Funeral Home - Hospers by your side, you can trust that you'll receive the care and compassion you deserve during this difficult time. Their commitment to excellence, personalized service, and community involvement make them an invaluable resource for families in Hospers and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and funeral or memorial services.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. Funeral homes or mortuaries may also assist with writing and publishing obituaries.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral or memorial services.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Typically, it ranges from a few sentences to several paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos of the deceased with the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the tribute.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online publication?

Contact the publication directly to learn about their submission guidelines and deadlines. Some publications may have online forms or email addresses for submitting obituaries.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

Yes, most publications charge a fee for publishing an obituary. The cost varies depending on the publication, length of the obituary, and any additional features such as photos or special layouts.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life is remembered in the way they want. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that provides a fuller picture of the person's life.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries can be a celebration of the person's life, so including humorous stories or anecdotes can help capture their personality and spirit.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive or private details about the person's life that you don't want to share publicly, it's best to omit them from the obituary or discuss them with family members before publishing.

Can I publish an obituary online only?

Yes, many online platforms and social media sites allow you to publish an obituary without printing it in a physical newspaper. This can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The time it takes for an obituary to be published varies depending on the publication's deadlines and workflow. Online publications may publish immediately, while print newspapers may take several days or weeks.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's difficult to make changes to an obituary once it's been published. However, if there are errors or inaccuracies, contact the publication immediately to request corrections.

What is the purpose of an online guestbook or condolence message?

An online guestbook or condolence message allows friends and family to leave messages of sympathy and support for the grieving family. These messages can provide comfort and become a treasured keepsake.

Can I include charitable donations or memorials in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorials in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and continue their legacy.

How do I find archived obituaries from past years?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit libraries that maintain archives of past publications. Some websites also specialize in archiving and providing access to historical obituaries.

Can I republish an obituary from another source?

If you want to republish an obituary from another source, such as a different newspaper or website, be sure to obtain permission from the original publisher or author first.

What is the role of social media in sharing obituaries?

Social media has made it easier for people to share news of a loved one's passing and connect with others who are grieving. Many funeral homes and online platforms also use social media to share obituaries and provide updates.

How do I ensure that an obituary is accurate and respectful?

To ensure accuracy and respectfulness, fact-check information carefully and proofread the obituary multiple times before submitting it for publication. Also, consider having multiple people review it before publishing.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including quotes or poems that were meaningful to the deceased can add depth and personality to the obituary.

What is the significance of publishing an obituary in multiple languages?

Publishing an obituary in multiple languages can help reach extended family members or community members who may not speak the dominant language of the region.

Can I create a video or multimedia tribute instead of a traditional written obituary?

Yes, some funeral homes and online platforms offer options for creating video or multimedia tributes that combine music, images, and storytelling to celebrate the life of the deceased.

How do I preserve an online obituary over time?

If you're concerned about preserving an online obituary over time, consider saving a copy offline or using services that specialize in archiving digital content.