Van Beek, Susie 1895-1917

VANBEEK

Posted By: Marjorie Brunsting-Volunteer (email)
Date: 3/24/2023 at 19:55:53

Source: Alton Democrat issue of 14 April 1917, page 3.
Death Claims A Young Life
On Monday afternoon this community was terribly shocked when the sad news that Susie Van Beek had died became known. She had been sick for two weeks and although her ailment was of a very serious nature, no one looked for any sudden change like this. In the morning Dr. Galman called on her and her condition seemed a little better than on Sunday, but along towards noon she appeared to become more subdued and her mother, thinking Susie was tired and needed rest, did not try to disturb her, but kept her as quiet as possible. About 1 o'clock she ate a little broth and at about 3:30 o'clock her mother gave her part of an egg, which she took as usual. Only half an hour afterward, while her sister Sylvia, holding her in her arm to support her while taking her medicine, she gave only a slight gasp and passed to the great beyond.

As soon as possible her father, sisters and brothers were called to come home, but she had passed away before they could reach the house. Susie was the oldest child of Mr. and Mrs. John Van Beek. She was a girl of quiet disposition, to know her was to like her. She was a great favorite among the young people, was a member of the church and Sunday school, of the Christian Endeavor, and of the Young Ladies' Mission band. The beautiful anchor floral gift from the members of the Young Ladies' Mission band and the Christian Endeavor and the floral pillow by her Sunday school class and the wreath from Wierda and Monson's store can only express a small portion of the love and esteem in which she was held by her many friends. 'Tis sad to lose so dear and young a daughter, sister, friend and classmate. Her parents, also her friends will always feel there is a vacant place that no one else can fill. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon from the First Reformed church, Rev. Geo, Douwstra officiating. The choir sang "Rest In Peace". The sincerest sympathy of the entire community is extended to the bereaved parents, brothers and sisters.

Miss Susie Van Beek was born on August 11, 1895, in Friesland, the Netherlands. When five years old she came with her parents to the United States and four years ago came with them to Hospers. For several years she was an efficient and valued clerk in Wierda and Monson's store. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Van Beek, 21 years and 8 months of age at the time of her death. She is survived by her parents and the following brothers and sisters. Agnes, Ima [or Ira] Sylvia, Daniel, Gerrit and Frank, all at home. The Democrat extends its heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved.