Harriet Vander Ploeg Obituary

Vander Ploeg
Harriet Cynthia
Vander Ploeg
August 30, 1922
April 10, 2024

Harriet's life spanned over 101 years. She was born on the family farm in Collins IA to parents Aura May and Edgar Ross Sheibley. She was raised by Aura May and grew-up alongside Sister Minnie May and brother Bill. Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life, providing strength and comfort through difficult times. Harriet attended Central College in Pella IA earning a Teaching Certificate. Upon graduation she taught in both Pleasantville and Pella Iowa. While at Central College Harriet met John (Bud) Vander Ploeg. Bud was drafted into the army during WWII where he fought courageously and wounded seriously. Bud and Harriet married in 1945 following his meritorious discharge from the Army.
Their lives surrounded the family Business, Vander Ploeg Bakery. But truly her greatest accomplishment was raising seven children. She is survived by Carol (Rich) Van Slooten Colorado Springs CO; Mike (Donna Mae) Vander Ploeg Grand Rapids MI; Gail (Mike) De Young Rehoboth NM; Beth Vander Ploeg Paul (Karol) Vander Ploeg Colorado Spring CO; Julie (Mark) Mihevc Conifer CO and sister Marvel Bahnsen Schleswig IA. She was a cherished grandmother to 15 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren and was loved by many nieces and nephews. Harriet experienced great sorrow at the sudden and early passing of Husband Bud and preceded in death by her son Bruce (Sharon) Vander Ploeg and sister Minnie May Yant. Harriet was a devoted lifelong follower of Jesus Christ, and a passionate fan of the Saint Louis Cardinal, in that order and could often be found sharing her love for both. After raising her children, work with Hospice of Pella gave purpose and meaning to her life. She was an avid golfer and did so up until age 99. The daily Jumble and watching Jeopardy kept her mid sharp. She loved current events and college sports, and often could be found cheering family from the sidelines. In 2016 Harriet moved to Colorado Springs to be closer to family. She found a new church home at First Pres. Special recognition to members of her Life Group who offered fellowship and friendship, sharing faith and experiencing God's love together. The family would like to extend appreciation for the services received through Bear Creek Senior Living and the Care Team at Compassus. A Celebration of her Life will be held in the Sanctuary at First Presbyterian Church Colorado Springs CO April 23 at 11:00 a.m. Prior to the service friends and family are invited to pay their respects during visitation 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Swan-Law Funeral Home 501 N. Cascade Ave Colorado Springs CO 80903. On Saturday, April 27 Harriet will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband Bud and other family members. Graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery Pella IA. This final farewell will provide an opportunity for loved ones to gather to share and celebrate a life well lived. Donations may be made in her honor to Rehoboth Christian School or First Presbyterian Church "Big Blue" Choir.