James Vollink

James H. Vollink, age 95, of Spirit Lake, formerly of Archer, passed away Wednesday, April 18, 2012, at Lakes Regional Healthcare in Spirit Lake. He was born on April 6, 1917, near Primghar, Iowa, to Charles and Mern (Potter) Vollink. James graduated from Archer High School in 1936, and the Sioux City Welding School. He enlisted in the United States Navy December 17, 1942, serving as 1st class ship's fitter and later as 1st class aviation mechanic. He was honorably discharged December 25, 1945. James worked his entire life farming in the Archer area. James was united in marriage to Thelma McNutt on December 25, 1948, in Archer. Thelma passed away on May 30, 1980. He married Eileen Irvine on February 14, 1981, in Archer. Eileen passed away on August 20, 2010. James was a member of the Archer United Methodist Church. He enjoyed spending his spare time fishing, gardening, woodworking and volunteering. He truly enjoyed the time he spent with his family! James also enjoyed traveling the U.S. and was able to make a trip to Europe. James is survived by daughter, Elaine Palmer (Fred) of Newell; son, William Vollink (Kathy) of Arnolds Park; Jim Irvine (Sheryl) of Gary, SD; Jane Madsen (Bob) of Hornick, IA; Lee Irvine (Ronda) of Primghar, IA; Lois Heckert (Kim) of Story City, IA; sister, Charlotte Walbright of Silvis, Illinois; brother, Carl Vollink (Doris) of Hudson, Massachusetts; 13 grandchildren: Brian Palmer (Jane) of Emmetsburg, IA; Treasure Wachholz (Mike) of Goodhue, MN; Molly Vail (Justin) of Spencer, IA; Leah Vollink of Coon Rapids, MN; Brian Irvine (Angie) of Clarkfield, MN; Warren Irvine (Jami) of Clarkfield, MN; Jill Hempel (Cam) of Hutchinson, MN; Andrea VandeHaar (Bill) of Cedar Falls, IA; Mike Madsen (Maghan) of Omaha, NE; Lance Irvine of Elgin, MN; Chad Irvine (Jen) of Spencer, IA; Randy Heckert (Shelley) of Indianola, IA; Allison Pitts (Mark) of St. Paul, MN. He also has 27 great-granchildren. A memorial service will be held June 9, at 10:30 a.m at the United Methodist Church in Archer, IA. The Schuchert Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

James Vollink

April 6, 1917 - April 18, 2012