Boersma, Barend "Barry" unknown-1965

BOERSMA

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke--Volunteer
Date: 6/29/2016 at 22:46:11

Source: Alton Democrat (5-6-1965)

Born: Unknown
Died: April 30, 1965

NORTHWESTERN SENIOR DROWNS IN POOL AT SIOUX CENTER

Barend Boersma, a senior at Northwestern College, accidentally drowned Friday, April 30, 1965, at the Sandy Hollow Swimming pool near Sioux Center. He was swimming with two college companions, Ross Ballou and Bill Barwugen, when he apparently suffered cramps and disappeared into fifteen feet of water.

Memorial services for Barry were held Monday in the Northwestern College Capel, attended by faculty and students. Reverend Buseman, College Pastor, gave the meditation. He was assisted by Carol Denekas, who presented Auslander’s reading “He is Risen”; Bonnie De Young, Student Senate representative; Richard Groenhout, Christian Fellowship; John Wurpts, Dormitory Council member; and the Choral Readers Sextette, Dr. Stegenga spoke briefly, and Professor Rodney Jiskoot was at the organ. The Benediction was given by Dr. Scorza.

Funeral services for Barry were held Tuesday in the Reformed Church of Springfield, South Dakota with the pastor, Reverend Paul Vander Woude, in charge. Several Northwestern College faculty members and students attended the service in which Dr. Stegenga and the Choral Readers also participated.

During his four years at Northwestern, Barry was active in Drama, having appeared in several college plays. He was a member of the Coral Readers, the K.B.K. and the Christian fellowship. He was also on Gospel Deputation teams and was selected by the faculty to membership in the Senior Honor Society.

He is survived by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius Boersma, six brothers and sisters, his maternal grandparents, and his paternal grandmother.