Ellerbroek J Gerrit 1881-1950

ELLERBROEK, BEERINK

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke-Volunteer
Date: 5/21/2012 at 23:17:49

Sioux Center News (10-12-1950)

Gerrit J. Ellerbroek , prominent Sheldon business man for 35 years and a active leader in civic affairs most of that time, died at his home in Okoboji at 4 a.m., last Thursday. He would have been 69 years old next month.
His death followed a long period of illness. Last June 5, he underwent an operation for cancer at a Rochester, Minn., hospital and never regains his health since then. Funeral services were held in the First Congregational church of Sheldon at 2 p.m., Sunday with Dr. Thomas Lutman officiating.

Mr. Ellerbroek was widely known in this area as owner of Ellerbroek’s Ready-to-Wear clothing store in Sheldon, which he founded in 1910 as a grocery and dry goods store. In 1918 the store was changed to handle ladies Ready-to-Wear clothing exclusively and is believed to be the first store of this type in Iowa, outside of Des Moines. In time the business was expanded to include store at Spencer , Cherokee, Storm Lake and Carroll. Mr. Ellerbroek retired from the business in 1945, when his son Willmar assumed management of the store in Sheldon. His other son Vernon, is now managing the store in Cherokee.

Born in Orange City on November 16, 1881, Mr. Ellerbroek moved to Sioux Center when a small boy and came to Sheldon in 1910. In addition to conducting his business and serving as a bank director, he was also active on the city council and the Chamber if Commerce for many years. He was a 32nd degree Manson and a Shriner and was a member of the First Congregational church

He is survived by his wife Hattie; his sons Vernon J of Cherokee and Willmar of Sheldon; and two grandchildren. Also two brothers Peter and Frank