VanBeek, Lester Dale 1927-2012

VANBEEK, PETERS, ROETMAN

Posted By: Wilma J. Vande Berg - Volunteer (email)
Date: 7/28/2012 at 16:58:59

LESTER DALE VAN BEEK
BORN: December 24, 1927, Sheldon, Iowa
PASSED AWAY: February 8, 2012, Sheldon, Iowa
FUNERAL SERVICE: February 11, 2012
First Reformed Church; Sheldon, Iowa
FINAL RESTING PLACE East Lawn Cemetery, Sheldon, Iowa
Military Graveside Services by the: Sheldon V.F.W. Bunker-Peterson Post #7354 and the American Legion Mc Glothlen-Cowie Post #145 of Sheldon, IA
Arrangements: Vander Ploeg Funeral Home of Sheldon
Lester Dale Van Beek, son of John and Anna (Peters) Van Beek, was born December 24, 1927, in Sheldon, Iowa. He completed his high school education in 1946, one year later than he planned, after suffering rheumatic fever. During high school he played football and basketball and was awarded his letterman’s sweater. On October 9, 1948, he enlisted in the United States Air Force for three years, attending basic training at Shepherd Air Force Base in Texas. After basic training, he was assigned to the 98th Bomb Group at Spokane, Washington, where he was assigned to Engine Build-Up and later became a Flight Line Mechanic. Lester was sent on a tour of duty to England and later returned to Spokane, ready to be discharged. However, the Korean War began and his enlistment was extended for one more year. He was sent to Japan Yokota Air Force Base where he assisted in delivering bombs over Korea. He returned to Spokane from Japan on a rotation system and was assigned to the 92nd Bomb Group, working with B29 airplanes. He remained there until his honorable discharge on August 6, 1952, obtaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. When Lester returned to Sheldon, he married Clarine Roetman, whom he had been introduced to while on furlough in Sheldon. They were united in marriage at First Reformed Church on October 2, 1953. To this blessed union, three daughters were born. Lester bought the corner gas station on 9th Street and Washington Avenue and named it Van Beek Standard and later Van Beek Mobil Service. He worked as an automotive and truck mechanic as well as a gasoline dealer. He later began a
bulk fuel operation, delivering to farms and homes. In the mid 70’s he sold the repair business but continued to operate the bulk fuel business until 1993. He drove bus for Sheldon Community Schools, bussing children to and from school on regular routes. He also drove athletes to most of the football, basketball and baseball games. He retired from bus driving in 1995 after nineteen years. He was a true and loyal Orab. Lester was a lifetime member of First Reformed Church of Sheldon. He assisted with many behind-the-scene projects such as making the shepherds’ staffs which are still used today for the Christmas programs. He also loved to drive the church bus when needed. He loved to do wood working and gardening when he wasn’t watching an Orab or Hawkeye game. Lester had a love and respect for our country and our flag and was a member of the American Legion. He taught his daughters patriotism and was an example of an honest and faithful American who loved the Lord. Lester knew how important it was to give blood and gave many gallons until they would no longer accept his donations due to his health.
Lester is survived by his three daughters: Deanna and her husband, Marv Van Riesen; Sheila Marra; and Laura and her husband, Darwin Westphalen; all of Sheldon; five cherished grandchildren: Shanda and her husband, Tom Knight of Evansdale, Iowa; Grant and Janelle Van Riesen of Tea, South Dakota; Derrick Marra of Sanborn; Michael Westphalen of Brandon; South Dakota; and Daniel Westphalen of Sheldon; and three cherished great-grandchildren: Lydia Claire Knight, Anna Michelle Van Riesen and Maci Grace Lynne Van Riesen.
He is preceded in death by his wife of forty-six years, Clarine; his parents, John and Anna Van Beek; three brothers, Henry Van Beek, Chris Van Beek and Harold Van Beek, and one sister, Jeanette Frissel.
Source: Vander Ploeg Funeral Home, Sheldon, IA., obit.