WATERLOO- Jerome “Jody” Odiel VanDaele, of Waterloo formerly of Fairbank and Oran area, died Sunday, September 11, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics Iowa City, from complications of Muscular Dystrophy.
He was born September 30, 1961 in Oelwein, Iowa, son of Julius and Bettie (Fortsch) VanDaele.
He grauated from Wapsie Valley High School, Fairbank in 1980. He received degrees from Wartburg College and University of Northern Iowa. He had worked at the University of Northern Iowa up until a few years ago.
Survived by: one sister, Nancy (Larry) Holub, Oelwein. A brother in-law, Casey Rechkemmer, Oelwein. One niece, Stephanie (Brian) Beesecker, Fairbank, three nephews, Shane (Jessica) Rechkemmer, Oelwein, Scott Rechkemmer, Oran, Addam Holub, Oelwein, and great-nieces and great-nephews, and a very special friend LeeAnne Kramer of Waterloo.
Preceded in death by: his parents, Julius and Bettie VanDaele. A sister, Beth Ann Rechkemmer.
Services : at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 15th at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Fairbank, with burial in the Church Cemetery. Public visitation on Wednesday at the funeral home from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Memorials may be directed to the Muscular Dystrophy Association
Condolences for JEROME “JODY” ODIEL VAN DAELE
I worked with Jerome in the Modern Languages Dept at UNI for several years. What a kind and caring spirit! No matter how difficult people were, he never had a cross word. His sense of humor was wonderful. We enjoyed sharing stories about cats, and he knew a LOT about cars. I am so very sorry. May his spirit of gentleness and compassion carry on.
I am so sorry for your loss. May “the God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3,4) comfort and soothe your heart. His promises, found in the Holy Scriptures, can offer much hope. It assures us at John 5:28,29 that our loved ones will be remembered and brought back to life in the resurrection. Please allow God’s Word to strengthen you and help you to endure this most difficult time.