Smedey, Gertrude (Mrs. Edward D.), 1881-1960

SMEDLEY, KLEINBEKMAN

Posted By: Lydia Lucas - Volunteer (email)
Date: 10/18/2015 at 19:10:38

From the Alton Democrat, June 2, 1960, p. 1:

MRS. SMEDLEY, ALTON RESIDENT FOR 71 YEARS, PASSES BEYOND

Mrs. Gertrude Smedley, an Alton resident for 71 years, died very suddenly from a cerebral hemorrhage early Saturday morning, May 28 at her home. She had reached the age of 79, continuing active with her many interests up to the morning of her passing.

She was born March 11, 1881, in the Netherlands and with her parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. John Klein Bekman, two sisters and two brothers came to the United States at the age of 8 years, among a group of 17 Holland immigrants. She was married Feb. 8 [1916] to Dr. E. D. [Edward D.] Smedley, local veterinarian. To this union was born one daughter, Edna, Mrs. Gerald E. Den Herder of Hull, who survives together with three grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Dr. Smedley preceded his wife in death Feb. 21, 1931.

Mrs. Smedley was the last surviving member of the John Klein Bekman Sr. family. Preceding her in death were two sisters in infancy, one in Holland and one in America; her brothers, Henry Bekman of Orange City and John K. Bekman of Alton; and one sister, Dora, Mrs. Peter Lucas of Alton.

She was active in church and community affairs--a faithful member of the Alton Presbyterian church for 44 years, and earlier of the local Reformed church. She taught Sunday School for at least 60 years and served for many years as president of the Ladies Aid and Missionary Societies. She was a charter member of the Alton Reformed church Christian Endeavor Society.

Mrs. Smedley served the community well in many ways and different organizations and will be greatly missed in those activities, as well as by her host of friends. She has served for many years as a member and treasurer of the Alton Park Commission and was vitally interested in maintaining the parks at a high level, giving much time to this activity. She also did much Red Coss work over a long period of years.

Trained in her father's tailor shop, Mrs. Smedley was an expert ladies' tailor and her work has been in demand for many years, especially since the death of Dr. Smedley. In addition she handled a great deal of business for the estate of her late brother, John K. Bekman.

Funeral services were held Tuesday May 31 at the Alton Presbyterian church with Rev. H. Rikkers of Hospers in charge, assisted by Rev. R. L. Jones of Minneapolis, a former local pastor and long-time friend of Mrs. Smedley. Interment was in Nassau township cemetery. The church was filled to capacity with friends who came to pay final tribute to one who has lived such a highly useful life but was never too busy to be kind.

Arriving from a distance for the funeral were Elmer Bekman of Ottumwa; Dr. and Mrs. R. L. Corbin of Seattle, Wash.; Mrs. Elizabeth Bekman, Mrs. Paul Frew, Miss Elizabeth Westerfield, Herbert Westerfield, all of Omaha; Rev. and Mrs. R. L. Jones of Minneapolis; Miss Nell Lucas, Henry Lucas, Mrs. Jack Lucas, all of Sioux City; besides relatives and friends from the surrounding area.