VanAsma, James 1874-1920

VANASMA

Posted By: Linda Ziemann, volunteer (email)
Date: 3/27/2023 at 18:41:34

LeMars Semi-Weekly Sentinel
Tuesday, March 30, 1920

James VanAsma, a former resident of LeMars, died at his home in Fairmount, Minn., on Friday night following an attack of influenza and complications. Mr. VanAsma was visiting relatives in LeMars about a month ago. While here he contracted a cold and on returning to Fairmount was laid up with a severe attack of grip. He was convalescing from the attack and last week was thought to be on road to recovery. He suffered a relapse and hemorrhages ensued in one of which he collapsed. His brother, Louis Vanessa, of this city, was with him the greater part of the time during his illness.

James VanAsma was 46 years old on January 7 last. He was born in Holland and when he was a small child came with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. VanAsma, to America and shortly after their arrival they came to LeMars and made their home.

James VanAsma grew up and attended school here and was subsequently employed at the Bechtle nurseries. He made good at his calling and was an expert gardener and tree man. Many years ago he went to Fairmount to take charge of an extensive nursery business. Since living there, he paid frequent visits to LeMars to see his relatives and was always warmly welcomed by his old friends.

Mr. VanAsma never married. His death is mourned by his father, B. VanAsma, of Marcus, his three sisters and a brother: Mrs. Jacob Slinger, of Marcus vicinity; Mrs. Dewitt Murray, of Schell City, Mo.; Mrs. Charles Trafford; and Louis VanAsma, of this city.

The remains were brought to LeMars for burial and services were held yesterday morning at St. Joseph church and the body interred in the St. Joseph cemetery beside the remains of his mother and two brothers who preceded him in death.

Mr. VanAsma was a good citizen, strictly honorable in his dealings, straightforward and manly and was liked and respected by a large number of people who have known him since boyhood.