Memorial services for Gerrit Meelker, age 90, of rural Ellendale, will be held 2:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 20, 2004, at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home. Rev. William Bankester will officiate. Visitation is one hour prior to the services at the chapel. To sign the guest book, goto www.bayviewfuneral.com

Gerrit died Monday, Aug. 16, 2004, at the Albert Lea Medical Center.

Gerrit Meelker was born April 2, 1914, to Cornelius “Case” and Jacoba (Folkersma) Meelker in Slochteren, Netherlands. He immigrated to Hollandale with his father in 1928 following the death of his mother.

Gerrit was a special and loyal friend who willingly repaired something or brought a piece of furniture he rebuilt or shared produce from his garden without expecting anything in return. There were even times through the years when he helped plant flower and vegetable gardens other than his own. Gerrit had a natural talent for working with his hands &045; repairing, building, and gardening. He simply enjoyed sharing the fruits of his labor.

Survivors include his son, Gary J. Meelker and wife Jane E. of Hollandale; grandchildren: James G. Meelker and wife Jennifer of Ellendale, and Andria Jensen and husband Jeff of Kasson; great-grandchildren: Hailey Meelker, William S. Jensen, Jack G. Jensen, and Thomas M. Jensen; and nieces and nephews.

Gerrit was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Eltje and Ben; and sisters: Grace and Dena.