Peter William Groen went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday Aug. 24. Pete was born June 18, 1939 in Hull, North Dakota. In 1948 at 9 years of age he moved to Lynden with his parents and six siblings. He later served in the army from 1958–1960 and was stationed in Germany. When he came home from the service he worked for a few years before marrying Joyce VanMersbergen on Sept. 17, 1965. Pete and Joyce had three boys and lived in Lynden the remainder of his years. Pete is well known for having a cattle hauling business as well as showing draft horses. In the later years Joyce likes to say they were co-workers for Jesus, and together they ministered to many people who needed a meal or kindness.
If you knew Pete you know he was a quiet man, but one of great kindness and integrity. He didn’t like a lot of fan fair and he wouldn’t want us bragging about him. So, we will simply say he was dearly loved by everyone he met, he was a great listener and a man you could count on for anything.
Pete is survived by his wife Joyce (VanMersbergen) Groen, three sons Wayne (Nicki) Groen, Randy Groen and Gordy Groen. Four grandchildren Darren (Kelsey) Groen, Trevor (Lexi) Groen, Tanisha (Isaac) Gourley and Nathan Groen. Seven great grandkids Brant, Paisley, Ivy, Paxton, Knox, Mazy and Myles. Siblings Ruth Nieuwsma, Myra Peterson, sister in law Joyce Groen and brother-in-law Robert VanMersbergen.
He is preceded in death and now reunited with his parents Will and Mamie Groen,sisters Dorothy VerHoeven, Wilma Terpsma and brothers Willis and John Groen.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ebenezer Christian School, 9390 Guide Meridian Road, Lynden, WA 98264
Memorial service is planned for Sept. 3 at 1 p.m. at Second CRC
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
