Harris Vander Velde

Harris Vander Velde, age 75 of Waupun, died unexpectedly on Monday, December 22, 2008, at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac, surrounded by his loving family.

Harris was born on December 7, 1933, in Friesland, WI, the son of Martin and Sadie (Herringa) Vander Velde. He graduated from the Cambria High School with the Class of 1951. Harris served his country with the United States Army, Military Police, and Chaplain Assistant from 1953 -1955. On July 27, 1955, he was united in marriage to Donna Cupery in Friesland. Harris was employed with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Department for six years. He then worked as a correctional officer for Waupun Correctional Institution until his retirement. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion.

Harris was a longtime member of First Reformed Church where he served as deacon, then elder, and lived out his faith daily. Harris had a close, unique relationship with his grandchildren and cherished time spent with them. His passions included singing with the Friesland Community Choir, golfing, traveling, and visiting friends.

Harris is survived by Donna, his wife of fifty-three years; three sons, Lyle (Jane) Vander Velde, Portland, OR; Lynn (Carolyn) Vander Velde, Kenosha; and Marty (Nancy) Vander Velde, Wauwatosa; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sister, June Witowich of Waupun; and a brother-in-law, Dennis (Andrea) Tamminga, Fall River. Nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Barbara Tamminga; and a brother-in-law, Paul Witowich.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2008 at Emmanuel Reformed Church, 400 West Brown Street, Waupun, with the Rev. Paul Wernlund officiating. Military Rites will follow conducted by American Legion Post 210.

The family will receive relatives and friends Friday, December 26, 2008 at Kohls Community Funeral Home, 405 West Main Street, Waupun, from 5– 8 p.m. and Saturday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the hour of service.

A Memorial Fund is being established in Harris’ name.