Marlan J. Velgersdyk

Marlan John Velgersdyk, a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, finished his race on October 30, 2024, with his family by his side. He was 80 years old.

Marlan was born August 17, 1944, in Hull IA, to John and Nellie (Vande Griend) Velgersdyk. He attended Western Christian High School and graduated in 1962. On November 23, 1962, Marlan married Carol Hulst in Hospers, IA. Together, they built a life filled with faith, family, and purpose in Sioux Falls, SD, where they raised their children, Scott, Pamela, and Michael.

Marlan was one of the founding members of Trinity Reformed Church in Sioux Falls, SD, where he served on the Consistory as a Deacon and Elder. He also taught Sunday school to high school students for over thirty years. His kindness and love for Christ allowed him to connect across generations, fostering relationships that deeply impacted those around him.

Marlan's sport was selling, and he was a pro. He was in sales and marketing his entire career. His talents were quickly apparent when he started his career at Iseman Mobile Homes. Rising to Vice President of Sales, he set records that have remained unmatched for decades. His abilities were widely sought after by other organizations. He accepted challenges from Reaves Buildings, Gruen-Wald Engineering, and Fireplace Pros, where he marketed and prospered these companies. The art of the deal was never just about closing; it was about understanding needs, building trust, and delivering satisfaction. His talent in sales was augmented by his genuine love of people and living by the golden rule.

Marlan had a passion for music, traveling, and performing for several years during retirement. He sang with the Mandskor Chorus, the church choir, and the Trinity Quartet. He brought warmth and harmony to every performance. His love for music was more than a hobby; it was a lifelong passion that connected him with friends and brought glory to God. Through every note, he expressed his love for life, and he left a lasting melody in the hearts of those who knew him. His voice will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

Both Marlan and Carol enjoyed traveling to distant locations. They enjoyed destinations such as Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Italy, and the Mediterranean. One of the highlights of their travel was their adventure to Antarctica. The journey was as memorable as the destination, traversing the waves and the wind of the Antarctic Ocean. They enjoyed seeing the penguins and admiring the beauty of God's creation.

Marlan took pride in everything he set out to accomplish. He loved spending time in the garden and a well-manicured yard. For Marlan, yardwork brought peace, pride, and beauty. It was a quiet labor of love, rewarded by nurturing a small plant into beautiful flowers.

Grateful for having shared his life with his wife, Carol; children, Scott (Lisa) Sioux Falls, SD; Pamela (Doyle) O'Fallon, MO; and Michael (Kristi) Lincoln, NE; six grandchildren, Jared (Emily), Ryan (Nicole), Kaylyn (Andrew), Derek (Lauren), Taylor, and Alexis; and twelve great-grandchildren, Hayleigh, Sydnie, Jade, Caiden, Masen, Evelyn, Ryker, Harlow, Lauryn, Olivia, Patrick, and Ava. Marlan was preceded in death by his parents, John and Nellie (Vande Greind) Velgersdyk; brothers Harold, Harvey, and Clarence Velgersdyk; and son Michael Velgersdyk. His children and grandchildren are so thankful for his legacy of prayer and commitment to his (and their) faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.

Memorials may be made and directed to Alpha Center, 3405 S Kiwanis Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57105. Marlan volunteered and supported their mission.

Visitation will be held on November 3, 2024, at Trinity Reformed Church, 7301 S Louise Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57108, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 5:00 p.m.

The funeral will be held on November 4, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at Trinity Reformed Church, 7301 S Louise Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57108. Lunch will be served immediately following the service.

Burial Service will be held on November 4, 2024, at Hills of Rest Cemetery Wildwood Chapel & Mausoleum, 300 N Chapel Hill Rd, Sioux Falls, SD 57103, beginning at 2:30 p.m.