Van Zomeren, Harriet Arlene (Wyant) 1918-2006

VAN ZOMEREN, WYANT, CORNELIUS, ROORDA

Posted By: volunteer (email)
Date: 7/29/2006 at 21:00:57

Harriet Arlene Wyant was the second of two daughters that were born to William Henry and Florence Pearl (Cornelius) Wyant. She was born on November 2, 1918, in Oakland, Minnesota. At the age of 12 years, Harriet was baptized by immersion, and made her profession of faith, at the Baptist Church in Austin, Minnesota. Harriet received her 8th grade education at the Geneva Public School.

On February 17, 1937, she was joined in marriage with Cornelius Dirk Roorda at the Baptist Church in Oakland, Minnesota. To this union two children were born: Gordon Edward on January 21, 1938 and Janet Elaine on April 22, 1944. After their marriage, Harriet became a loving and devoted mother and homemaker. In later years, from 1962 - 1983, she worked for the Hollandale Marketing Association.

After celebrating 36 years of married life together, Cornie passed away on March 6, 1973, at the age of 58 years.

On November 4, 1989, Harriet was married to Walter David Van Zomeren. The couple made their home in Oskaloosa and later in Pella. Harriet had significant heart deficiency and necessitated more advanced medical care. As her health declined she moved to Gordon's home in Urbandale, where she was cared for her remaining days.

Harriet passed away Tuesday morning, January 31, 2006, at the age of 87 years, two months and 29 days.

Those left to honor her memory are her husband, Walter Van Zomeren, her two children and their spouses, seven grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. They and their families are: Gordon and Jo Ann Roorda of Urbandale, Iowa; Janet and Roger Nordos of Bloomington, Minnesota. Harriet was the last remaining member of her original family. She is also survived by her husband, Walter's family: Joanne and Gerald Roquet, Jerry and Shirley Van Zomeren, Marilynn and Jim Rice.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Cornelius Dirk Roorda; parents Henry and Florence Wyant; her sister, Garnet Pearl Wyant, who passed away at the age of 13 years; and step-daughter, Nancy Verros. Harriet was a member of the First Reformed Church in Pella. Throughout her years, she served as a Girl Scout Leader, Sunday School teacher and a member of the Reformed Church Ladies Aid. Harriet loved to bake and was especially known for her pies. Her peaceful death, through the grace of God gives her family great hope and anticipation for what lies ahead for each and every one of them.

For those desiring, memorials may be designated for the Hollandale Reformed Church.

The Pella Chronicle, February 23, 2006