GOSHEN -- Wiegert "Bill" Veenstra, 69, of Goshen, died at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday (Jan. 21, 2009) in his home.

He was born Feb. 15, 1939, in Zijpe, The Netherlands, to Wieger and Rena (van Dijk) Veenstra.

Mr. Veenstra is survived by his wife, Loretta B. (Sutherlin) Veenstra, whom he married on July 21, 1989, in Elkhart ; three sons, Wiegert R. "Bill" Veenstra of Goshen, Carl (Kathy) Rensberger and Darrel (Tina) Rensberger; one daughter, Tina Reist, Sharlotte, Mich.; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Henry Veenstra.

Mr. Veenstra came to the United States in 1956. He was a truck driver for many years atVeada Industries, New Paris, and formerly worked at Glaval Corp., Elkhart . He enjoyed woodworking, needlework, photography and raising dahlias.

Friends and family will gather from 5 to 7 p.m. today at First Brethren Church, 5815 S.R. 15 N., Goshen. A celebration memorial service will follow at 7 p.m. at the Blessing House on the church grounds.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart , is assisting with arrangements.

Memorials may be given to Alzheimer's Association, 50 E. 91st. St., Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46209-4830.