Terlouw, Valerie Van Waardhuizen 1962-2023

PEALER, REITVELD, TERLOUW, VAN WAARDHUIZEN

Posted By: Diana Wagner
Date: 4/25/2024 at 14:39:03

Val Terlouw, 61, of Killduff, was received by the Lord on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City. A memorial service to celebrate Val’s life was at 1:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 15, at Prairie Lakes Church in Grinnell with Pastor Phil Culham officiating. The family received friends for refreshments and desserts following the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, Val’s family strongly encourages memorials to be designated to Mason’s Lighthouse, a fund to help build and maintain a pediatric hospice and respite home in Mason Sieck’s memory. Memorials may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.
Valerie Van Waardhuizen was born Feb. 12, 1962, in Pella, to Elmer and Patricia (Reitveld) Van Waardhuizen. She attended Pella schools and graduated from Pella High School with the Class of 1980.
May 15, 1981, Valerie was united in marriage to the love of her life, Marvin Terlouw, in Oskaloosa. Their union was blessed with three children: Ben, Chris, and Jon. The family established their home on the family farm near Killduff, where they have lived all of their married lives. Val was a homemaker and her contributions extended beyond the walls of her home, as she played a pivotal role in managing the accounting books and operation of the farm and Killduff Transport for over 30 years.
Val loved her family dearly, especially her grandchildren. She was always there to offer advice, a hug, and her listening ear. A true nurturer at heart, Val's love extended beyond her immediate family. She had a special affinity for children and dedicated countless hours enriching the lives of little ones in the nursery of Prairie Lakes Church. If a baby was near, Val was holding it. Her creative spirit shone through in her love for crafting, sewing, and quilting. She found joy in the art of creation and shared her talents generously with those she loved. Her hands were skilled, and the pieces she crafted became treasured mementos for family and friends.
Above all else, Val loved the Lord. She had a deep faith and showed her love for Jesus. Val's connection to her faith was further strengthened by her active participation in church activities. Attending church was not just a routine for her; it was a source of joy and a way to connect with her spiritual community. Her presence added warmth and sincerity to the congregation.
Among the many things that brought her joy, Christmas held a special place in Val's heart. Her enthusiasm for the holiday season was contagious, and she reveled in creating and assisting with festive traditions like Jingle Jam at Prairie Lakes Church that brought families together. The spirit of love and togetherness that she fostered during Christmas became a cherished legacy.
Described by those who loved her as being compassionate, easy-going, and loving, Val touched the lives of many with her genuine and caring nature. Her approach to life was marked by a sense of understanding, kindness, and an open heart that welcomed all who crossed her path.
Val is survived by her husband, Marvin Terlouw of Killduff; three sons Ben (Kendra) Terlouw of Sutton, AK, Chris (Angela) Terlouw of Killduff, and Jon (Katie) Terlouw of Newton; five grandchildren Sam, Abby, Elliott, Everett, and Russell Terlouw; and her siblings Craig (Carol) Van Waardhuizen of Ames, and Kathy (Dave) Pealer of Pella. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Source: Hometown Press (Sully, IA); December 20, 2023