SPENCER — Stewert “Stu” Lee Van Maasdam Sr., 74, of Spencer and formerly of Lake Park, died October 11, 2026, leaving a family that shared his love of creativity, faith and the magic of Christmas. A father of six, grandfather and great-grandfather, Stu found happiness in everything from painting and Harry Potter to a walk in the park and a bowl of ice cream.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Lake Park Methodist Church in Lake Park, with the Rev. Sedar W. Shako officiating. Geelan Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Stu was born November 14, 1951, in Le Mars, the son of Cornelius “Casey” and Donna (Stevens) Van Maasdam. He attended Harris-Lake Park High School and was a member of the United Methodist Church in Lake Park.
He married Suzanne Tryon in 1969, and they welcomed three children. In 1987, he married Angie Scheirholt, and they welcomed three more children.
His working life included more than 19 years at Berkley’s, nine years at Schwan’s and, most recently, six years at Menards. Those jobs brought him into contact with many people over the decades.
Away from work, Stu made room for imagination. A talented artist, he appreciated Bob Ross paintings and enjoyed pursuing creative projects of his own. He loved Harry Potter and Legos, watched Antiques Roadshow and browsed Amazon for unusual finds.
Trips to Florida were something to anticipate, while walks around Stolley Park offered enjoyment closer to home. Ice cream was another favorite pleasure.
Faith remained an important part of his life. Stu read and taught the Bible and welcomed opportunities to share his beliefs with others.
He especially valued time with his grandchildren. Christmas was his favorite holiday, a season that brought together the family connections and sense of wonder he cherished.
Stu is survived by his children, Shelly (Bill) Boles, Stewart Jr. (Hannah) Van Maasdam, Sonia (Ray) Stevens, Josh Scheirholt, Dillon Van Maasdam and Dustin (Carrie) Van Maasdam; his sisters, Lucy Lemker, Colleen Meyer and Marlee Schwarting; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cornelius “Casey” and Donna Van Maasdam, and his brother, Darwin Van Maasdam.
Family and friends may share memories and condolences through Stu’s obituary at Geelan Funeral Home.
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