Allen “AL” G. Vander Vorste
“I heard an old, old story, how a Savior came from glory, how He gave His life on Calvary to save someone like me.”
Born September 4, 1932 in Strasburg, ND to Rena (Haak) and Johannes Vander Vorste. Al spent his last weeks at home with Leona, his loving wife of 64 years by his side. Al died June 29, 2016 in Leona’s arms as she was singing ‘Jesus Loves Me’.
Al is survived by his wife Leona (Ryckman)Vander Vorste; a brother Dennis (Beverly) Vander Vorste; four children Gregory (Beverly) Vander Vorste; Rena (Dennis, dec.) Conlin; Daniel (Roxanne) Vander Vorste; Carla (Scott) Kemmis; seven grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Al enjoyed his work managing the Shoe Dept. at JC Penney Co. He started in Bismarck, ND and was transferred to Minot, ND and then Billings, MT. (1953 to 1971)
After prayerful consideration, he moved to Williston, ND in 1971 to open a Shoe Store in a department store of a friend. In 1979, he opened a second Shoe Store in Minot and later a third location in Bismarck. They were closed during the economic downturn of the 1980s in North Dakota. He retired in 1999 but enjoyed part time driving and delivery jobs.
In 2008 they moved to Mesa, AZ where Al spent untold number of hours in his Work Shop making birds, birdhouses, pens, and many other items from wood. He was especially proud to receive the Palmas Del Sol 2012 Pride Award as a Security Guard. The award states: “Your Enthusiasm and Ability to Follow Through Will Determine Your Success”. This truly describes AL.
Growing up in a Christian home, Al was a member of Velda Rose United Methodist Church in Mesa and First United Methodist Church in Bismarck, ND. He taught Junior High Sunday School, sang in the choir, and served on Administrative Board. Al’s love of Gospel music led him to follow his call to Music Ministry. Al cherished his time with the Victory Singers, family and friends. He will be remembered for being a gracious man always willing to help.
Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, July 5th at 11:00 am in the Velda Rose United Methodist Church Chapel, 5540 E Main Street, Mesa, AZ. Luncheon following the service at Palmas Del Sol Clubhouse, 6209 E McKellips Rd, Mesa, AZ.
A Memorial Service and burial will be held in Bismarck, ND at a future date.