Kersbergen, Gerardus Albertus, 1860-1915

KERSBERGEN, VANDERVELDE

Posted By: Lydia Luas - Volunteer (email)
Date: 6/12/2016 at 21:16:00

From the Alton Democrat, January 1, 1916: Rock Valley news:

Our citizens were surprised to learn of the sudden and unexpected death of Gerardus Albertus Kersbergen of Chandler, Minn., formerly a respected resident of this community, which occurred December 24th as a result of an acute attack of pneumonia. His remains were shipped here Monday for burial.

The deceased was a native of Holland and was born Jan. 6, 1860, at the time of his death was 55 years, 11 months and 18 days of age. In 1892 he came to the United States and located at Rock Valley. He was married three times, two of his wives having died in Holland. In June 1892 he was married to Miss Anna Vander Velde and as a result of this union, nine children were born to them, and they lived happily together until his passing. He was the father of twelve children, who still survive him.

He farmed in this community for several years and after leaving the farm he bought stock, and in 1911 he moved to Chandler, Minn., where he was engaged in farming and stock raising. We understand he contemplated moving back to Rock Valley, but death intervened and thwarted his plans. He was a man of genial disposition, a good father, and obliging neighbor.

He will be keenly missed by his devoted family. John Kersbergen, Gerrit, Cornie, Albert and Ira, Chandler, Minn.; Will Gersbergen[sic], Wilmont, Minn.; Mrs. H. J. Dreier, Doon; Mrs. T. V. Rogers, Sheldon; were present to pay the last tribute of respect to their loving father. Funeral services were held at the First Reformed church Tuesday afternoon, under the supervision of the pastor, Rev. B. De Jong, in the presence of many former neighbors and sympathizing friends and his body was laid to rest in Valley View cemetery. May he rest in peace. The family have the sympathy of their many friends in the hour of supreme trial.

(The Rock Valley newspaper for this time period is missing.)