White Funeral Home
400 First Street West
Independence, Iowa 50644

Independence – Bernard D. Smeenk, 81 years old, of Independence, Iowa, died on Saturday, May 4, 019, at ABCM Rehab Center of Independence – East Campus in Independence.

He was born on April 13, 1938, in Arnhem, the Netherlands, the son of Anton T. and Elizabeth (De Hoog) Smeenk.  He immigrated with his parents to the United States in 1955.  He graduated from high school in Kalamazoo, Michigan.  He and the former Monica Kay Benjegerdes were married in 1980 in Postville, Iowa.  Mr. Smeenk was a residential construction carpenter until he retired.  Mr. Smeenk enjoyed gardening, landscaping, and traveling.  He played the organ and accompanied worship services in churches in Holland.  He drank coffee with as much sugar as possible.  He cared for most animals – often feeding them when visiting zoos.  He had a special affection for cats.  He was an avid reader and enjoyed working crossword puzzles.

Mr. Smeenk is survived by his wife, Monica, his children, Victoria Foster, Tamara Devny, Mary Marshall, Jonathan Smeenk, Joseph Smeenk, David Smeenk, Michael Smeenk, Benjamin Smeenk, Marcus Smeenk, Katrina Benjegerdes, Maricay Olsen, and Charles Smeenk, his grandchildren, and his great grandchildren.  He is also survived by 1 brother, Herman Smeenk, and 2 sisters, Rika Noggle and Toni Lankerd.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 sisters.

No services are planned at this time.  The White Funeral Home of Independence assisted the family with arrangements.