Abraham M. WESTVEER

WESTVEER, GOEDGELUK, HEKKINS, HEITZ

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 4/28/2013 at 11:39:57

Abraham M. Westveer is the owner of the finest drug store in Calhoun county. It is a credit to Lake City and the proprietor is classed among the progressive business men, who through the conduct of his individual enterprises, is also contributing to the general prosperity. Mr. Westveer is a native of Holland, Michigan, born April 4, 1870. His parents. James W. and Catherine (Goedgeluk) Westveer, were both natives of the Netherlands and in the year 1838 the father crossed the Atlantic to America, settling first in New York, whence he removed to Michigan about 1858. By his marriage he became the father of five children: Frances, the wife of Rev. G. J. Hekkins, of Chicago; Abraham M., of this review; A. J., who is assistant postmaster in Holland, Michigan; William J., also a resident of Holland; and Jeanette, who is still with her parents.

In the public schools of Holland Mr. Westveer obtained his elementary education, which was supplemented by study in Hope College, and thus by liberal mental training he was well prepared for the practical and responsible duties of business life. The year 1885 witnessed his arrival in Iowa. He took up his abode in Eagle Grove, where he engaged in the drug business and there he remained until 1887, when he went to Chicago, where he also conducted a drug store until 1895. He then again went to Eagle Grove, where he purchased a drug store, continuing the business for two years, on the expiration of which period he came to Lake City and established what is now the finest drug store in Calhoun county - a store which would do credit to a city of twice its size; it is well arranged, neat and attractive, and he carries a large line of fresh drugs and everything found in a first class drug store. He thoroughly understands the business of propounding prescriptions, knows the use of the various remedies which he carries and has gained a large trade.

On the 12th of July, 1900, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Westveer and Miss Martha M. Heitz, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, a daughter of Joseph Heitz, who was formerly engaged in the publication of a newspaper there, but is now living retired. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Westveer was born one child, but it died in infancy. He is a valued representative of various fraternities. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias lodge, in which he has filled all the offices and is now past chancellor, while for two terms he has been a delegate to the grand lodge. He also holds membership relations with the Knights of the Maccabees and is well known to his brethren of these orders, who hold him in the highest regard. His business record is very commendable for he owes his success entirely to his own efforts, working his way upward by determined perseverance, capable management and untiring industry.

A Biographical Record of Calhoun County, Iowa, Chicago, IL: S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1902