BLEES, Willem 1913-1999

BLEES, KNUDSEN

Posted By: IAGenWeb Volunteer
Date: 9/14/2010 at 20:07:40

Decorah Public Opinion, Tuesday, March 23, 1999

Willem Blees

Willem Blees, 86, died at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Tine and Dag Knudsen, Saturday, March 13, 1999.

It was a promise kept. Willem's wish had been to die at home surrounded by peace and the things he held dear.

Willem Blees was born in the Nefherlands Feb. 17, 1913. He enjoyed the outdoors and in the early 1930s helped set high standards for organized camping.

An outstanding entertainer and pianist, he was much sought after throughout Europe. A humanitarian, he and his wife, Liesje, aided Jews during the war by hiding them in their home.

A pioneer, Willem brought his family to America in 1956 with $87 in his pocket.

Together with his wife, they fulfilled their dreams through hard work and "because everything is possible in America."

He touched the lives of many with his enthusiasm and a ready sparkle in his eyes.

Survivors include a son, Wim and Janet Blees of St. Louis, Mo., and a daughter, Tine Thevenin-Knudsen of Lake City, Minn.

Transcribed by an IA GenWeb Volunteer from obituaries found in the Howard-Winneshiek Genealogy Society Library, Cresco, Iowa.

The Winneshiek Co. connection isn't apparent in this obituary, but because it appeared in a Decorah paper, there most certainly is a connection. If anyone can provide Willem Blees' tie to Winneshiek Co., please contact wwaters13@comcast.net so the information can be added to this obit.