Alan John Boender was called home to eternal life on January 12, 2026, resting in the sure promise of the Lord he faithfully served. His life was not marked by self-promotion, but by steady work, quiet dedication, and a willingness to use the gifts God gave him for the good of others.

Alan was born on December 6, 1952, to John and Edna (Slings) Boender. He was the third of five children. His early years were shaped by frequent moves, as his father built new homes with the intention of selling them. The family often lived in the basement of each home until it sold, then moved on to the next. These experiences instilled in Alan a strong work ethic and practical skills that would remain with him throughout his life.

He graduated from Pella Community Schools in 1971. Within a year, Alan began doing construction work alongside his father, a trade he continued faithfully until his retirement in early 2020.

On August 25, 1973, Alan was united in marriage to Joyce Veenstra. Together they shared 52 years of marriage and were blessed with two children, Matthew Alan and Megan Joy.

Alan will be remembered for his service to the Lord through his occupation and volunteer efforts. He faithfully served on building committees for Pella Christian Schools, Calvary Christian Reformed Church, and Cornerstone Christian Reformed Church. Through this work, he helped create places where God’s people could gather, learn, and worship. Alan served humbly, content to work behind the scenes.

To his family, Alan was known for his ornery sense of humor and affectionate teasing. His familiar saying, “If I didn’t tease you, you wouldn’t know I loved you,” brought laughter and warmth and will be fondly remembered. He enjoyed restoring old cars and tractors, putting together models, woodworking, and helping his children with home remodeling projects—simple acts of service that reflected his love for family.

Alan’s life was a testimony of faith lived out through work, service, and love. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he has been called home to eternal life in Christ.

Preceded in death by:

His parents, John and Edna (Slings) Boender

His older brother, Jerry Wayne Boender

His parents-in-law, Ben and Gretta Veenstra

Survived by:

His wife of 52 years, Joyce Boender

His children and grandchildren:

Matthew and Lynae Boender of Pella, Iowa —

     Jadon, Kadey, Hallie, and Izek 

Megan and Jonathan Nederhoff of Wellsburg, Iowa —

     Jacob and Elaina

His sisters: Linda and Jerry Beyer, Knoxville Sheryl and Darrell Goodyk, Pella Valerie and Michael Vander Molen, Sully

His in-laws: Jerry and Rita Veenstra, Pella Glen and Betty Stryker, Orland Park, Illinois Along with many nieces and nephews

Memorials may be given to Safe Place Outreach Inc. (Pastor Tom Dykman’s Mission in Sierra Leone) or Hospice of Pella.