Geurt Van Sant, 89, of Pella and formerly of Sully, died Feb. 5, 205, at Jefferson Place in Pella. Funeral services were held Tuesday, Feb. 10, at Sully First Reformed Church. Memorials have been designated for Wesley Life – Jefferson Place.
Geurt John Van Sant was born on a farm near Leighton on July 14, 1925, to Andrew and Gertie (Van Hall) Van Sant. He received his education in area schools and graduated from the Sully High School in 1943.
Geurt served with honor in the U.S. Navy during World War II, stationed aboard the U.S.S. Belleauwood. Following his discharge, he began a 40-year employment at the Sully Co-op, driving first a livestock truck, then a feed truck, and finally working in the offices there.
On Oct. 18, 1951, Geurt was united in marriage with Leona Plate. They were blessed with four children.
Geurt enjoyed many outdoor activities. He liked golfing, hunting, walking, and riding his bicycle, and was well-known for cleaning walnuts. He was a good handyman, always willing to lend a helping hand to others. He was a member of Sully First Reformed Church.
He is survived by his four children: Gary Van Sant of St. Charles, MO, Roger (Lisa) Van Sant of Sully, Duane (Ann) Van Sant of Des Moines, and Barbara Van Sant of Sully; two grandchildren: Anthony James and his wife Keri, and Kathryn Sue; and one great-grandchild, Archer William.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Leona, on Mar. 20, 2014.
