Ellen Van Den Top

  Ellen Van Den Top, age 90, of Lynden, went to be with her Lord on Aug. 19, 2016.
  A family graveside service was held at Monumenta Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 23, with a memorial service following at the Protestant Reformed Church at 2:30 p.m. with Reverend Ron Hanko officiating.
  Ellen Van Den Top was born Sept. 3, 1925 in Doon, Iowa. She was a daughter of James Den Besten and Nellie Otten; she attended the public schools of Lyon County.
  She was married to Andrew Van Den Top on Dec. 12, 1947 in Doon. They enjoyed 49 years of marriage.
  Ellen was a homemaker and raised five children. She was a member of Protestant Reformed Church and a supporter of Covenant Christian School. She worked at the Lynden Health Care Center for 20 years.
  Ellen will be fondly remembered by her children and grandchildren for her generosity. Everyone was always welcomed with open arms. Ellen was a prayer warrior for family. She will be greatly missed.
  Ellen is survived by one son, Loren Van Den Top and wife Carolyn of Bellingham; three daughters, Nelvina Maas and husband Vernon of Everson, Marilyn Forslof of Eureka, California, and Kimberly Tjoelker and husband Ernie of Lynden; one brother, Bill Den Besten; one sister, Henrietta (Toots) of Michigan; 19 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.
  She was preceded in death by her husband; son Jeffrey Van Den Top; brothers John Den Besten and Bernie Den Besten; and sister Adrianna Den Besten.
  Contributions in her memory may be made to Covenant Christian School, 9088 Northwood Rd., Lynden, WA 98264.
  Funeral arrangements are under the care of Gillies Funeral Home of Lynden.