Valster, Jerry J.

VALSTER, BENSINK, VAN ZEE

Posted By: volunteer (email)
Date: 7/14/2005 at 21:03:09

Funeral services for Jerry J. Valster, 62, of Pella, who died Tuesday, June 20, 2000, at his home were held Friday, June 23 at the Third Reformed Church in Pella. Rev. Kevin Korver officiated at the service. Dr. Wayne Vander Leest was Reader, Judy Steenhoek was Choir Director and Barb Nunnikhoven was Accompanist. Special music was provided by the choir, men's chorus and the congregation.

Interment was at Oakwood Cemetery in Pella, with Military Honors by the Van Veen-Van Hemert American Legion Post No. 89. Casket bearers were Wayne Vander Leest, Michael Valster, Timothy Valster, James Tanis, Jeff Vroom, Jim Vroom and David Kenworthy. Honorary bearer was Todd Phelps.

Jerry was born on October 20, 1937 northeast of Leighton, the son of Cornelius (Case) and Henrietta Bensink Valster. He attended the Else Country Grade School near Leighton and graduated from Pella High School with the Class of 1955. He then enlisted in the armed services. Jerry served with the United States Navy for four years.

Jerry was married to Shirley Jo Van Zee on March 7, 1959 in Pella.

Jerry and Shirley resided the past 33 yrs. on their acreage "Oleo Acres" just west of Pella. Jerry began doing construction work for Duane Busby and then was employed at the Coop Lumber Yard. He then went into business for himself. Jerry had been the owner of Valster Construction for the past 33 yrs. and was currently doing carpentry work with his son, Stuart.

Jerry was an active, faithful member of the Third Reformed Church where he enjoyed singing in the choir. He was a member of the Dutch Masters Auto Club, he had served on the Otley Public Utilities Board, and most recently was appointed to the Pella City Council.

Jerry enjoyed camping, woodworking, crafts, golfing and antique tractors. In the midst of all these activities and the obligations of the carpentry business, Jerry still found time to raise sheep and ponies for the enjoyment of his grandchildren.
On October 22, 1999, his wife, Shirley and her sister, Ruth Medema, were killed in a tragic auto accident. Their losses to Jerry and his family were overwhelming.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Shirley and sister-in-law, Ruth Medema.

Jerry is survived by two daughters, Jackie S. Martin of Willmar, Minn., Melanie K. Wilborn of New Sharon; one son, Stuart A. Valster of Pella; 16 grandchildren; two sisters, Marcie Vander Leest of Pella, Vivian Easton of Katy, Texas; and a brother, K.C. Valster of Pella.

Memorials may be designated for the Growing With A Vision Fund of the Third Reformed Church or Hospice of Pella.

Arrangements were made by the Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home.

Knoxville Journal Express, July 3, 2000