Van Gelder, Charles W. (Pfc) 1923-1944

VANGELDER

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke--Volunteer
Date: 6/13/2021 at 20:33:36

Source: Sioux County Capital (8-10-1944)

Born: January 8, 1923
Died: July 24, 1944

ORANGE CITY SOLDIER DIES IN NEW GUINEA--PFC, US ARMY AIR FORCES WORLD WAR II

The community was saddened to learn that Pfc. Charles William Van Gelder of Orange City, died in the service at Lae, New Guinea, on July 24.

Pfc. Van Gelder was born at Ireton June 8, 1923 and came with his parents 14 years ago to a farm north of Orange City. He attended the Christian School at both Ireton and Orange City and worked on his father's farm until he was called into the service.

He left for ground crew training in the Air Corps at St. Petersburg, Florida on February 19 1943, and received additional training at a camp in Salt Lake City, Utah; Bruning, Nebraska; Blythe, California and Alamogordo, New Mexico. He left for overseas service May 8, 1944.

He is survived by his parents, four brothers and five sisters; Corp. Randall Van Gelder somewhere overseas, Miss Jennie at home, Margaret, Mrs. John B. Reinders of Orange City, Pfc. George Van Gelder of Camp McCook, Nebraska, Johanna, Agnes, Mary Ann, Gerrit John and Kenneth Arthur at home.

The parents sent telegram to Pfc. George Van Gelder which was not delivered in time for him to attend the Memorial Services.