Joan Vander Molen

Joan Vander Molen, of West Chicago, passed away November 20, 2023. She was born January 25, 1921 in Breda, Chaam, the Netherlands to Johannes and Anna Flach, the 7th of eight children. She grew up on a farm, from which grew her love of animals. She was a curious child, eager to learn and attended a one-room schoolhouse until the 5th Grade. This was during a time when school for girls was not deemed very important. At 15 years of age, she was told to choose: either leave home and find a job or work on the farm and marry a farmer pre-arranged by her parents. Being strong willed (and smart), she left home and found work as a "mother's helper" to a family of 5 children, the start of a life of a hard worker.
She met Harry Vander Molen; they married and made the risky decision to emigrate to the U.S. in May 5, 1955 with 6 children, Gary, Dorothy, Jerry, Ann, Ena, and Janny. The two youngest, Berny and Caroline, were born later in the States.
It has been said "family is everything" and for Joan, it truly was. Family intertwined with faith came first, middle and last.
Joan is survived by Dorothy, Jerry, Ena, Janny, Berny, Caroline, 17 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Joan was preceded
in death by her husband, Harry, son Gary and daughter Ann. She will be greatly missed.
Psalm 73:26. "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Joan, please visit our Tree Store or plant a tree.