John B. Van Gelder, 80

John B. Van Gelder passed away Sunday morning, June 20, 2010, at his home in Post Falls, with family and friends at his side following a courageous battle with cancer. John was born in Heerlen, the Netherlands on Sept. 29, 1929, to Fritz and Anna Van Gelder.

John married his childhood sweetheart, Corry H. Hoenjet, on May 26, 1955. Both immigrated to the U.S. on Dec. 6, 1955, and became U.S. citizens on May 10, 1961.

John worked for the Montana Power Company as a mechanical engineer and before retirement was a divisional manager of gas and oil. His personal enjoyment was his small business of 50 years in the repairing of a variety of clocks. John loved being with his family and doing outdoor activities such as; fishing, boating and hunting. He also loved to play practical jokes and tell funny stories.

John is survived by his wife, Corry; brother Henry Van Gelder and sister-in-law Judy Van Gelder; daughter Lisa O’Dell and son-in-law Brian O’Dell; son Rik Van Gelder and daughter-in-law Dina Van Gelder; four granddaughters, Amber Stubbs and spouse, Greg Stubbs, Morgan Charbonneau and spouse, Brian Charbonneau, Reagan Van Gelder and Madison Van Gelder; as well as a great-granddaughter, Sophia Stubbs.

John’s wife, Corry, would like to thank Dr. Ellison and staff, with special thanks to Patty, Dr. Schmitt, Dr. Ahmad, Hospice of North Idaho and especially nurse Sally.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 26, 2010, at Yates Funeral Home, Hayden Chapel. Please visit John’s memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.