HAROLD VAN ROEKEL

Harold Van Roekel of Goodlettsville, TN (formerly of Corsica/Wagner) passed away November 13 at Skyline Hospital in Nashville. Harold was born to Henry and Anna Van Roekel on November 24, 1934 at Timber Lake. On May 25, 1956, Harold married Marion Hoffman. They were married for 64 years. The couple had a son, Perry Van Roekel and a daughter, Kimberly Van Roekel.

Harold was a very hard worker. At age 14, he was working in the Olivier Iron Yard, loading train cars. At 16, he bought a gravel truck and hauled gravel for many years.

Harold joined the Army National Guard in 1957 and was honorably discharged in 1960. He also was in the reserves for two years.

Harold operated the Standard gas station for many years and also owned his own business, Van’s Service & Auto Sales, along with on the farm tractor tire service–motor equipment parts department. Harold was in business for 40 years.

While in Corsica, Harold was a member of the fire department for 25 years, city council, school board member and Corsica Community Club.

In 1994, Harold, Marion and Perry purchased Dakota Bowl in Wagner. Harold finally had an easier job, making his famous homemade pizzas and burritos. He loved the Friday night cosmic couth bowling nights. 

As hard as Harold worked, he made time for fun. He was an avid bowler for over 60 years and still talked about the time he averaged over 200 in a 25 line bowling tournament.

Harold and Marion, along with good friends, Doris and Neil Hall started giving dance lessons to hundreds of people, who loved the polka and polish polka. The couples hired polka bands and started several polka clubs. Weekends were spent traveling to polka festivals in many different states.

Harold is survived by his wife, Marion and daughter, Kimberly of Goodlettsville, TN; and sisters in law, Goldie Van Roekel of Corsica and Marge Van Roekel of Florida, as well as many wonderful nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Perry; his parents; brothers, Joe (Judy), John (Leona) Garian - Willis; sisters, Jeanette (Al) Lightenburg, Arleen (Mel Hamburg, Lawrence) Browen, Mary Ann (Eugene VanZee).

Harold will be sadly missed by all who knew him. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.