VanDeWeerd, Franklin 1933-2007

VANDEWEERD, LEE

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke-Volunteer
Date: 2/4/2015 at 22:22:23

Source: Hawarden Independent (6-2007)

Born: February 27, 1933
Died: June 12, 2007

Van De Weerd, Franklin, passed away peacefully at home in Coeur d'Alene, surrounded by loved ones, on June 12, 2007, after a 2 1/2 year battle with cancer.

Frank is survived by his wife of 29 years, Myrna L. Van De Weerd, his first wife Evelyn M. Lee and his daughter Carol E. Aebischer; his stepchildren Mindy, Scott and Lee Ann Cameron; his grandchildren, Tracy and Jasen Aebischer, Laura Hanna, Megan, Melinda, Nadia and Sandy Cameron; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Frank was the youngest of nine children, and is survived solely by his brother, Chester L. Van De Weerd.

Frank was born February 27, 1933 in Rock Valley, Iowa, son of Henry J. and Alice Vande Weerd. After he graduated from Rock Valley Public High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on April 11, 1951, and was honorably discharged on June 12, 1954, having achieved the rank of Corporal. Frank was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with one star, United Nations Service Medal and the Korean Defense Service Medal, which was issued in 2004 to veterans who served in the Korean War.

After leaving the military service, Frank served his apprenticeship and became a journeyman plasterer. In 1967, he fulfilled a lifelong desire to become a policeman and joined the Anaheim Police Department in Anaheim, California, where he was promoted to the rank of Master Sergeant. Frank retired after 29 years of proud service to the community. In 1996, Frank and Myrna moved to Coeur d'Alene, and began building their dream home, coming to know fabulous neighbors and fantastic new friends. Words cannot express our gratitude, love, affection and deepest appreciation for the dear friends in Idaho and California, and their unparalleled support over the years.

Frank and Myrna belong to the Heritage Congregational Church in Spokane, The First Congregational Church in Anaheim and enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting and water skiing. Frank contributed regularly to the Veteran's Memorial Fund, Christian Children's Fund, and closest to his heart, animal shelters in both communities.

The family requests any donations be made to an animal shelter of your choice or North Idaho Hospice. If you wish to send flowers, please include tulips as Frank was so proud of his Dutch Heritage.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 27th at 1:00 pm at the First Congregational Church at 515 N. State College Blvd., Ananheim, California. A Reception will immediately follow at the church. A second memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 27, at 1:00 P.M., at the First Congregational Church in Anaheim, California.