Postma, Charles, 1870-1916

POSTMA, NIENHUIS, DEYOUNG

Posted By: Lydia Lucas - Volunteer (email)
Date: 6/21/2016 at 20:57:11

From the Alton Democrat, July 15, 1916: Rock Valley news:

Chas. Postma was born in the Netherlands November 27, 1870 and departed this life at his home in Rock Valley July 5th, at the age of 45 years, 7 months and 8 days. Two years ago he complained of stomach trouble, which later developed into cancer which resulted in his death.

He was of a family of ten children and when but a boy he, in company with four other members of the family emigrated to America and located at Patterson, N.J., where he remained for a period of ten years. In the fall of 1898 he came to Rock Valley and lived with his sister, Mrs. P. A. Huisman, until the death of her husband. He was married to Miss Effie Nienhuis of Rock Valley September 26, 1907 and their marital relations were always pleasant.

Mr. Postma learned the trade of a carpenter and was quite proficient in his profession. The past six years he was connected with the Farmers Lumber Co, of Rock Valley and enjoyed the confidence of all with whom he was associated with in a business way. He was a devout member of the First Reformed church of Rock Valley and held official position in the church and contributed what could of his means and energy toward the betterment of the conditions of mankind.

He was conscious of the approach of that enemy that follows mankind in every lane of life. Calmness of mind and an unfaltering faith in the Great Shepherd and bishop of his soul marked his last days. and hours of his life. He departed this life with the full assurance that he would enter into a life of peace and happiness beyond the confines of the grave. His kind acts and his pleasant words will be treasured as priceless gems by his many friends and associates, upon which their minds will love to dwell in the fondest and most sacred of recollections.

He leaves a kind companion, four brothers and three sisters--two brothers and two sisters still reside in Holland, and Henry and Jacob Postma and Mrs. P. A. Huisman of North Yakima, Wash. to mourn his departure.

Funeral services occurred at the First Reformed church Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock conducted by the pastor, Rev. B. De Jonge, in the presence of many neighbors and sympathizing friends. After which his remains were consigned to the last home of man in Valley View cemetery. Those who attended the funeral from out of town were Jacob Postma of North Yakima, Wash.; Miss Jessie Postma of Patterson, N.J., a niece; Eise and Jacob Neinhuis of Chicago; Rev. and Mrs. John Engelsman and Miss Jennie Marra of Orange City; D an Mrs. S. M. Bradshaw of this city. The bereaved have the sympathy of their many friends in teir hour of sorrow.

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The Rock Valley newspaper is missing for this time period.

His widow Effie married Roel De Young in 1921.