Vernon J. Holthusen

Rock Rapids, IA Vernon J. Holthusen, age 89 of Le Mars, IA formerly of Rock Rapids, IA died Friday, June 13, 2008 at Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, IA. Funeral service will be 10:30 AM, Tuesday, June 17th at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rock Rapids, IA, with Rev. Dave Christensen officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Rock Rapids. Visitation will be Monday, June 16th from 2 " 8 PM, with the family present from 6 " 8 PM at the Jurrens Funeral Home of Rock Rapids. Vernon John Henry Holthusen was born November 16, 1918 in Hull, Iowa, the son of William and Freida (Junge) Holthusen. He attended country school and helped with the family farm. On August 18, 1943 Vernon was united in marriage to Thelma File in Dakota City, NE. Vernon worked for Kooiker Chevrolet, was a mechanic for International Harvester Implement in Rock Rapids, and had a gravel business with his brother Arnold. He was a Road Foreman with Lyon County when he retired. In March of 2003. Vernons wife Thelma died after 59 years of marriage. Vernon moved to LeMars in July of 2005 to be closer to his daughter, Tammy. He became a resident of Plymouth Manor in December of 2007. In his pastime, Vernon enjoyed fixing anything that was broken, especially if it had an engine. He also enjoyed gardening, taking family vacations and watching his Cubs. He especially enjoyed his time with his Grandsons, and followed all their sports activities. This past Friday, June 13, 2008 Vernon died at Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, IA at the age of 89. Vernon is survived by his daughter, Tamara and her husband, Kevin Small of Le Mars, IA; five grandchildren, Aaron (Leah) Christians, of Sioux City, IA, Adam (Jen)Christians, of Andover, KS, Tyler Christians of Norman, OK, Tanner Christians and Ross (Amanda) Small of Le Mars, IA. His Great Grandchildren, Isabella Christians, Tyler, Leah, Turner, and Carly Christians, and Mason Small. One brother, Virgil Holthusen of Rock Rapids, IA; one sister, Lucille (Les) Ripley of Luverne, MN. He is also survived by his little dog Sara, along with a host of relatives and friends. Vernon is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Alvin, in infancy, Arnold and Wilmer and two sisters, Selma Meiburg and Arlene Toms.