William (Bill) George Versaevel

William George Versaevel was born on October 31, 1916, on the family farm in Stanley Township to Leon Cornelius and Eugenia (Valleys) Versaevel. He grew up and attended rural schools. Bill served in the U.S. Army from July of 1942 – November of 1945. He served in Europe under General Patton as part of the 3rd Army, 95th Infantry Division. As part of his service, he was the recipient of several decorations including the Bronze Star, Infantry Badge and three Battle Stars. After his honorable discharge, Bill returned to Southwest Minnesota. He was united in marriage to Clarice Boerboom on February 27, 1946, at St. Eloi Catholic Church in Ghent. Bill was a farmer at heart. He farmed near Cottonwood and Marshall his whole life. In 1990, the couple moved to Marshall. He enjoyed bus trips and two special trips to Europe on the 50th anniversary of World War II. He was a member of Holy Redeemer Church, American Legion Post 113, VFW Post 742 and the adult community center. Bill was most passionate about spending time with family and visiting with people. Bill died on Sunday, October 20, 2013, at the Avera Morningside Heights Care Center in Marshall. He is survived by his wife, Clarice, of Marshall, children Ken (and Sue) of Marshall, Leon (and Vicki) of Marshall, Eileen (and Bruce) Fuhrmann of Marshall, Mary (and Mark) Miller of Mankato, Delores (and Al) Fricke of Worthington, Tom (and Shelly) of Marshall, Joe (and Karen) of Marshall, 20 grandchildren, many great –grandchildren, sisters-in-law Rita Versaevel, Peg Boerboom and Ida Louwagie, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Henry, Emily Brosseau, Raymond, twin brother Frank, and Oscar. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to future construction of a Veteran’s Memorial at Memorial Park in Marshall.