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William "Bill" Van Ourkerkof Wadena, Minnesota, formerly of Philip, South Dakota, died on Sunday, July 13, 2025
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William "Bill" Floyd Van Ourkerk, 91, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025 at Valley Care and Rehab in Barnesville, MN. He was born on April 10, 1934 to Susan (Van de Gutche) and Carroll Van Ouwerkerk in Philip, SD. He was the second youngest of nine children. His father passed away when Bill was just 4 years old, leaving his mother to raise 9 children alone. He had many stories about his childhood, always fun and sometimes a bit crazy.
Bill attended school in Philip and graduated in 1952. He was drafted into the Army, serving from March 1957-March 1959. He was stationed in Manheim, Germany at the same time as Elvis- his favorite singer, and Beirut, Lebanon, which was during wartime where he encountered gun fire. He enjoyed serving his country; however, due to his mother's declining health, he was honorably discharged and returned to the states.
In his early adult years, Bill lived in Milwaukee, WI and worked at Cutler-Hammer with his brothers. He then moved to Sheridan, WY and worked as a salesman.
On February, 25, 1972, Bill married Zelda Kay (Krebs) Hook and he was blessed with 5 children, Tami, Tim, Twila, Todd and Verlynda, and together they had 3 children, Billie, Nicole and William "Tyler". Together Bill and Zelda owned and operated the Park Inn Cafe for 17 years. On November 29, 1989, Zelda passed away from cancer. He remained in his hometown and worked various other jobs throughout the years, including at Scotchman Industries, Ellsworth Air Force Base, Tanya's Drive Inn, Harley-Davidson in Sturgis and was a local mail carrier until he retired in his 80's.
Bill enjoyed life! He loved traveling to visit people, often capturing the moments with his camera during his younger years. He greatly enjoyed being around people, whether they were family or friends, old or young, or whether it was driving in the Black Hills or across the country, watching sporting events- Go Packers!, rock hunting with his best friend Bruce Boyd, watching westerns, fishing, or just having coffee. Because he was so social, you couldn't go anywhere with him where he didn't know someone, including the Vegas Strip!
Bill was always easy-going and selfless. His smile lit up the room, and his laugh would brighten your day. He loved any homemade food that people made for him but desserts were his favorite- especially ice cream. His shenanigans and gibberish talk-often with his brother-in-law Bart Krebs- will never be forgotten and his "Tarzan Call' was the best!
He was a gambler, playing slots and scratchers, always hoping to win big. Although this didn't happen, he did win big-with family and friends. Bill will always be remembered as a "favorite uncle", a great friend, father and grandfather. He loved all of his children and grandchildren dearly, and was proud to see their accomplishments.
Bill will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Until we meet again...
Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 25, at the American Legion Hall in Philip, with Pastor Ray Greenseth officiating.
Military graveside services will follow at the Masonic Cemetery in Philip.
MEMORIAL SERVICE
Friday, July 25, 2025 - 11:00 a.m.
American Legion Hall
Philip, South Dakota
CLERGY
Pastor Ray Greenseth
MUSIC
“Amazing Grace”
“There’ll Be Peace in the Valley”
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
All Relatives and Friends in Attendance
INTERMENT WITH MILITARY HONORS
Masonic Cemetery
Philip, South Dakota