Obituaries detail

Gerrit Peter Vander Beek, Age: 79
Feb 02, 1945 - Jan 24, 2025

Gerrit Peter Vander Beek, 79, passed away on January 24, 2025 in Lee’s Summit, MO.

Gerrit was born on February 2, 1945 in Slootdorp, North Holland, the Netherlands to Lambert and Marie (Branderhorst) Vander Beek. The family immigrated to Iowa when Gerrit was 4 years old. He attended Sully Christian schools and graduated from Pella Christian High.

Gerrit married Marcella (Marcie) Bandstra in 1963 and had 2 children, Lori (Paul) Iverson (CA) and Daniel Vander Beek (MO).

Gerrit’s strong work ethic was always accompanied by a big, friendly smile. Over the years, he worked for Lubbers’ Dairy, De Jong Greenhouse, and held numerous positions with the Pella Farmer’s Cooperative including manager of the Tracy branch.

In 1980, the family purchased Vander Ploeg Bakery in Pella, IA and he became a baker for the next 26 years. He excelled in this newfound profession, even becoming president of the Iowa Baker’s Association for several years.

Gerrit loved football, especially attending and traveling for Central College football games. He also loved to get behind the wheel and explore with Marcie, choosing to take country roads over interstates. As a rule, he wouldn’t turn around - he wanted to see what was around the next bend and so took the time to enjoy the scenic route. Gerrit and Marcie enjoyed many years traveling to diverse destinations together, including an especially memorable trip through the Panama Canal.

He is survived by his wife of over 61 years, Marcie, his children, Lori and Daniel, grandchildren, Luke (Anne) (TN) and Rachel Iverson (CA) and great-grandchildren Noah and Willow Iverson. He is also survived by sisters, Maggie Wakeman (Holland, MI) and Ann Van Den Heuvel (What Cheer, IA).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lambert and Marie, his brother, Lambert “Beek” Vander Beek and son-in-law, Paul Iverson.

A memorial will be held at a later date.

Additional Service:
Services at Later Date

Condolences

Arvin and Judy Kelderman Jan 28, 2025

friend ,Pella ,Iowa

Marcie and family, we want to extend our deepest sympathy to you in the passing of Gerrit. May you find joy in the many precious memories and peace in the promises of God. Praying for comfort and strength.

Marcy (Verhey) Fisher Jan 28, 2025

Friend of Dan's ,Des Moines ,Iowa

Dan, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad. He was a wonderful, caring and funny man. I have many fond memories of going into the Bakery and seeing if you were around and your dad always had time to talk with us gals if he was out on the floor. No matter how old we are it's never easy to lose a parent. I lost my mom 3 years ago next month. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you grieve. Marcy (Verhey) Fisher

Josh Shetterly Jan 28, 2025

Firend ,Pella ,Iowa

When you get old enough you start to look back and be aware of the people who helped mold you into the person that you became . Gerrit impacted my life in so many ways. He gave me my first job at 15 , taught me about work ethic,honor & loyalty , faith ,and how to be passionate about things in life .He carried a strong positivity about himself and the ventures he committed himself to. He was such a great person and I could never repay him for All the things he modeled for me when I was a young impressionable man.I still consider his son Dan , one of my dearest lifelong friends …so many stories & good times together …all of which I will always hold close to my heart. Rest in peace ,Gerrit ❤️

Bev Toerney Jan 29, 2025

Cousin ,Carroll ,Iowa

My sympathy to you and your family Marcie. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you have peace in knowing God’s promises. ❤️🙏. Bev and Jim

Lynne (Van Roekel) Ploeger Jan 29, 2025

Family friend ,Altoona ,Iowa

Gerrit always seemed to be in a good mood and had such a positive attitude! I will always remember him singing along with the oldies in the back of the bakery and referring to me as "kiddo." My prayers are with you, Marcie, Dan, & Lori, as you celebrate his life.

Lori Anderson Jan 30, 2025

Family friend ,Ankeny ,Iowa

Gerrit and Marcie will always hold a very special place in my heart. My heart grieves the passing of this kind and generous man. He supported and loved me when it seemed like no one cared. I will always be so grateful! Praying for Marcie, Lori and Dan…and the entire family. May God give you peace. Love, Lori Engbers Anderson

Roger Jansen Feb 06, 2025

Cousin to Marci ,Pella ,Iowa

My deepest sympathy to you ,Marci. Gerrit was a life taken to soon, but he is now in heaven where there is no more pain and suffering, thanks be to God!