Van Laar, Fred 1881-1955

VANLAAR, VANDERMARK, SLOTBOON

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke --Volunteer
Date: 6/13/2021 at 20:33:37

Source: Alton Democrat (8-11-1955)

Born: April 21, 1881
Died: August 6, 1955

Frederick Jan "Fred" Van Laar, a native of Alton and resident for 75 years, died Saturday night at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Nelson Brower, after an illness of several weeks.

Born of pioneer parents, Fredrik and Grada (Slotboon) Van Laar, April 21, 1880, at Alton, he attended the local school. He was married June 20, 1905, to Jennie Vander Mark, daughter of another pioneer family, and the couple resided in Alton during their entire married life. They observed their Golden Wedding in June of this year. They had sold their house and were preparing to move to Arizona shortly thereafter, but Van Laar's illness prevented their departure.

He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Alton. An expert carpenter and cabinet maker, he was well known for his skillful work, but in later years gave up his trade due to a heart ailment. Five weeks ago he under went an operation from which he failed to rally.

Survivors include his wife and two daughters: Mrs. Nelson Brower of Alton; Mrs. Ray Bodie of Sheldon; a son, Dick Van Laar, of Glendale, Arizona; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers: Gerrit Van Laar, and Henry Van Laar, an infant sister, and two stepbrothers, John and Bill Van Laar.

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the First Reformed Church, Reverend Sandee officiating. Preceding the service the body was at the Van Etten Funeral Home, Orange City.