November 20, 1928 ~ August 23, 2025 (age 96)
William “Bill” Gerald Veldhuizen, age 96, peacefully passed away in his home on August 23, 2025, in Dublin, Texas. Services will be held Friday, August 29, at the Stephenville Christian Reformed Church, 10:00 AM, 1120 CR 351, Stephenville, TX 76401 (visitation Thursday, 6:00-8:00 PM, at Lacy Funeral Home.) Burial will follow the service on Friday at Johnson Cemetery, Erath County, Texas.
Born on November 20, 1928, in Pipestone, Minnesota, Bill was the son of Christian and Hattie Veldhuizen. He graduated from Pipestone High School and went on to live a life marked by faith, family, service, and hard work.
Bill served his country honorably as a Staff Sergeant during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955. He married Audrey Joann VanNieuwenhuyzen on May 5, 1955, in Woodstock, Minnesota. Upon returning home, he dedicated himself to farming in Minnesota for 35 years. In 1990, he and his wife, Audrey—along with their son, Stuart and Connie Veldhuizen—relocated their dairy operation to Dublin, Texas, where they continued their agricultural legacy.
A man of deep Christian faith, Bill gave his life to Christ at a young age and remained devoted to the local church throughout his life. He was known for his commitment to purity and spiritual devotion and was a faithful presence in worship communities wherever he lived.
Music played a special role in Bill’s life. He loved singing and spent many years as the baritone in the Gospelaires Quartet. The group performed at churches across the region and even recorded a record album—a testament to their shared passion for gospel music.
Bill served several terms as Mayor of Woodstock, Minnesota. He also had a competitive spirit and athletic talent. He was an avid fastpitch softball player known for his powerful home runs and skillful play as a second baseman.
Those who knew Bill remember him as social, fun-loving, conversational, hardworking, committed, and willing to take risks when needed. His warmth and energy–especially his hearty laugh–made him beloved by many. His grandchildren especially cherished time spent with Grandpa.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Audrey; brother Edward Veldhuizen (Janice); sons Glen Veldhuizen (Nancy), Ivan Veldhuizen (Susan), Stuart Veldhuizen (Connie), Mark Veldhuizen (Kassandra); daughter Diane Veldhuizen-Ilse; daughter-in-law Karen Veldhuizen; 24 grandchildren; and 45 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Christian and Hattie Veldhuizen; sisters Norma Veldhuizen, Wilma Kruisselbrink, Bernice Doornbos; brother Elmer Veldhuizen; brothers-in-law Peter Van Nieuwenhuyzen, Joe Rysdam, Hank Doornbos, Howard Kruisselbrink; sister-in-law Marie Veldhuizen; son Rodney Veldhuizen; foster son Doyle Vanden Berg; and grandson Jared Veldhuizen.
Bill’s legacy lives on through the generations of family who carry forward his values of faith in God, joy in community, love of music and sport, and dedication to hard work.
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