Gladys Bakker

Gladys Lucille Bakker, age 95, passed away June 2, 2019, at Arlington Place in Grundy Center. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. at Orchard Hill in Grundy Center with Pastor Brian Steenhoek officiating. All are welcome to join us for a memorial gathering with an honorary tea time starting at 1:00 p.m. at the church, prior to the service. Abels Funeral And Cremation Service, Engelkes-Chapel, is taking care of Gladys and her family. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online messages of condolences may be made at www.abelsfuneralhomes.com.

Gladys was born March 4,1924, near Parkersburg to George and Fannie (Konken) Hempen. On June 29, 1944, she was united in marriage to John Bakker at the Lincoln Center Parsonage. To this union they welcomed two children, Elaine and James. Gladys and John made their livelihood for 45 years farming in Lincoln Township before retiring to Grundy Center in 1991.

Gladys was a member of Lincoln Center church, serving on various committees including Dorcas, taught Sunday School, and Ladies Fellowship. For over thirty years Gladys and John were leaders of Al-Anon and Compassionate Friends, something near and dear to their heart.

Gladys is survived by her three grandchildren: Kevin and wife Kimra of Kasson, MN, Kent and wife Jenn of Grundy Center, and Emily Schuneman of Steamboat Rock; Seven great-grandchildren: Kalianne Venenga & Kyle Venenga, Tyler Venenga & Paige Venenga, Erica Schuneman, Bryce Schuneman, and Trevor Schuneman. She is also survived by two nieces: Charlotte Bakker and Carolyn Thesing. Preceding her in death: her husband John, daughter Elaine, son James, son-in-law Keith and sister Hazel Kruse.