Nick Vander Dam 1912-1984

Nick Vander Dam was born a son of Klaus Dam and Jennie (Vander Broek) Dam on February 18, 1912, in Sioux City, Iowa, and he departed this life on October 1, 1984 at General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri at the age of 72 years.

He united in marriage to Mary (Allen) Vander Dam January 8, 1946, and they shared 38 happy years, and to this union three daughters were born.

He served for more than 30 years in the United States Army, retiring as Sergeant First Class from the 208th Military Police Company at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri in November 1963. His assignments had taken him to several countries. He served in the 1st Armored Division in North Africa during World war II, and in the 7th Infantry Division during the Korean Conflict. While serving his country he received several Awards and Service Medals, including 4 Bronze Stars during services in the European-African Theatre during World War II, and 2 Bronze Stars during the Korean Conflict.

Upon retirement from the Military, he and his family made their home in Waynesville, Missouri. He was then employed for 10 years by the Army Air Force Exchange Service.

He was a very active member of the Waynesville/St. Robert Lions Club, serving as president from 1978-1979, and Deputy District Governor of 26-J in 1983-1984. He also received the Lion of the Year award in 1981-1982.

He is survived by his wife Mary of the home; three daughters: Elizabeth J. and son-in-law Robert D. Boydston, and grandchildren Belinda and Bryan Boydston of Kansas City, Missouri, Carol S. and son-in-law John E. Johnson of Richland, Missouri, Mary E. and son-in-law Timothy H. Hoatland, and grandchildren Nicholas and Nathan Hoatland of Ellenton, Florida; two brothers: Harry Dam of Huron, South Dakota and Jack Dam of Sioux City, Iowa; one sister: Jennie Ludwick of Sioux City, Iowa and many other relatives and friends. He will be greatly missed by all of them.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, October 3, 1984 at 10:00 a.m. in the Main Post Chapel with Chaplain Dean K. Keller house (CPT) officiating.

Full Military honors were given at the Waynesville Memorial Park Cemetery with services under the direction of the Waynesville memorial Chapel.

Those serving as escorts were Military and honorary escorts were members of the Waynesville/St. Robert Lions Club.