Joseph Verkinderen

Joseph Henry Verkinderen was born on April 15, 1933, in Grandview Township, to Henry and Mary (Nuytten) Verkinderen. He grew up on the family farm near Ghent. After his father's death when Joe was 10, he began farming and ultimately harvested 72 seasons. On October 24, 1959, he was united in marriage to Catherine Doom at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. The couple farmed and raised their family near Marshall. Family was very important to Joe. He enjoyed dancing with his grandchildren and was voted the "Finest Performer" of the annual Verkinderen family show. One of his greatest moments of joy was his 50th wedding anniversary party with his family and friends. He was also an avid sports fan and never missed one of his children's or grandchildren's events. He was an active member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church where he served on the Parish Council and belonged to the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree.

Joe was also passionate about farming. He served in leadership positions on the Lake Marshall Township Board and Cenex Harvest States Board. Joe will also be remembered as a loyal, good friend. He loved people and always remembered their names, even years later, and greeted them with a very warm smile. He will be greatly missed by all.

Joseph died unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 30, 2015, at his residence in Marshall. He is survived by his wife, Catherine, of Marshall, daughter Carole Verkinderen of Chaska, daughter Lisa (and Jay) Ziemann of Scottsdale, AZ, grandchildren Daniel and Sarah, son Steve (and Pat) Verkinderen of Marshall, son Dave (and Krista) Verkinderen of Marshall, granddaughters Hannah and Lily, one sister, Jane (and Ernie) Hennen of Marshall, sister-in-law Arlene Verkinderen of Edina, brother-in-law Jim Cattoor of Corpus Christi, TX, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Charlotte Cattoor, brother Daniel Verkinderen, and infant sister Mary.

Memorials preferred to Holy Redeemer School or Holy Redeemer Foundation.