Carol Ann Van Dam

Carol Ann Van Dam was born to Cornelius and Anna (Van Houten) De Vries on February 2nd, 1936 in Pipestone, Minnesota where she was raised and attended school. She later met Edward John Van Dam and they were united in marriage on September 1, 1953 at the home of Carol’s parents. The couple made their home on the farm that was owned by Ed’s parents; here they raised two children and shared over 60 years of marriage. Ed preceded Carol in death on August 3, 2017.  Carol continued to reside on the farm until just prior to December 18, 2018, when she passed away at the Sanford Hospital in Luverne, Minnesota at the age of 82 years, ten months, and 16 days. 

Throughout the years, Carol worked tirelessly in her home, making sure her family was fed and taken very well care of. She also volunteered her time with various circle groups at church. Carol enjoyed going camping and traveling with Ed’s family. She was a talented and versatile musician and could often be found singing hymns and playing organ. After visiting the bluegrass music festival in Missouri Valley, Iowa, Carol taught herself to play the harmonica by ear and even developed a skill for playing the harp that was gifted to her by Ed. Carol’s friends were very dear to her and she truly appreciated the time they spent visiting. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother and will be truly missed. 

Carol is remembered by her daughter, Joan (Larry) Reker of Worthington, Minnesota, and their children, Chad and Corey (Alicia) Reker; son, John (Sheila) Van Dam of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and their children, Clay (Stephanie) Austin and son, Owen, and Jennifer (Eric) Lovro and children, Cole, Brynja, and Gavin; and siblings, Bernice Brouwer, Betty Toering, and Neil De Vries. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and sister-in-law, Sonija De Vries.

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