Den Burger, Paul Edward 1925-2005

GROENENDYK, DEN BURGER, KARR

Posted By: Volunteer (email)
Date: 1/28/2008 at 21:08:01

Paul Edward Den Burger was born on December 25, 1925 near Beacon, Iowa. He was one of five children born to Maria Dorothea Groenendyk and Albertus “Bert” Leon Den Burger. Paul attended school in the Knoxville area.

On October 24, 1952 Paul was united in marriage to Mary Louise Karr. To this union one daughter was born. For many years Paul operated Den Burger’s DX. From 1966 to 1985 Paul ran the Champlin Station in Knoxville. For a few years Paul also worked for Vermeer Manufacturing.

Paul entertained many people as part of the men’s quartet, “The Lord’s Ambassadors” along with Jim Kidder, John Crawford, Jerry Swank and Lois Anderson. At home Paul was remembered for growing beautiful flowers and maintaining a meticulous lawn. He was a patient man and taught Gaye many mechanical skills as she helped around the stations. The grandchildren will always cherish the brief trips to the Amanas for an overnight stay. Grandpa always kept a peppermint in his pocket for those special grandchildren.

Paul passed away on Tuesday, February 22, 2005 at his home at the age of 79 years, I month and 27 days.

Preceding him in death were his parents, one brother, James in infancy

Those left to mourn his passing include his wife of 51 years, Mary Louise Karr Den Burger; one daughter and her husband, Gaye and Kevin Arkema of Pleasantville; two grandchildren, Chandra Arkema of Wilmington, Delaware. And Troy Arkema of Pleasantville; one brother and his wife, Pete “Bert” and Jean Den Burger of Arkansas; two sisters, Anna May Vande Kamp and her husband, Ed and Genella Bailey of Knoxville as well as several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services for Paul Edward Den Burger were held on Thursday, February 24, 2005 at Graceland Cemetery in Knoxville with Rev. Robert Smith officiating. Casket bearers were Kevin Arkema, Troy Arkema, Don Bailey, Jeff Bailey, Neil Crane, John Gotta and Kenneth V. Loynachan.

Memorial may be given in his memory to Marion County Transportation or Dialysis Unit-Pella Regional Medical Center. Williams Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Williams Funeral Home - 2005