Becky Maatman

Becky Maatman, 55, of Colombia, Missouri, formerly of Sioux Center, IA, died unexpectedly at her residence Thursday, February 25, 2010. A Memorial service will be held Saturday at 5:30PM at Covenant Christian Reformed Church of Sioux Center with Reverend Herman Van Niejenhuis officiating. Interment will be held at Memory Gardens Cemetery of Sioux Center at a later date. Rebecca Jean Maatman was the daughter of Dr. Russell and Jean Maatman. She was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on October 23, 1954. She spent her childhood in New Jersey, Mississippi and Iowa. Becky was a graduate of Sioux Center Christian School, Unity Christian High School, Dordt College and University of Iowa where she obtained a Masters' Degree in Journalism. Becky spent several years tutoring the children of missionaries in Mexico and Costa Rica. She worked in various jobs either teaching immigrants English or using her other talents to help those in need. Becky was also a graduate of Calvin College where she obtained a teaching degree. She loved children and taught several years in the Grand Rapids school system. Nearly two years ago, she moved to Columbia, Missouri to live near family. Becky fought a life-long battle with Juvenile Diabetes. She will be remembered for her dry sense of humor and uncanny ability to say just the right thing. Becky is survived by her parents; one brother and sister-in-law, John and Anne Maatman of Sioux Center, Iowa; two sisters and brothers-in-law: Sue and Larry Meyers of Sheldon, Iowa, and Ruth and Roger Carter of Columbia, Missouri as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her grandparents and a sister and brother-in-law, Deborah and Steven Baker. Online Condolences Janna Van Driel Smithers Relationship: family friend My sympathy to the family with this sudden loss. You're in our prayers. Sent: 2/26/2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bonnie Reinders Sioux Center Relationship: family friend Dear Maatman family, I was sorry to hear of Becky's death. I pray that God grants you His grace as you grieve for your beloved Becky. "Death is swallowed up in victory!" I Cor. 15:54b Sent: 2/26/2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom Aldrich Sioux Center Relationship: Friend My sincere condolences on Becky's passing. We met in the 70's when we covered the Sioux County Supervisors meetings. We shared that "dry sense of humor" that got many smiles and laughs from the board. I also treasure the memories of my classmate Steve and his wife Deb. Every day I visit with my friends Russell and Jean is a great day! Sent: 2/26/2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nancy Dolieslager Van Zee Orange City Relationship: 1972 classmate from Unity Christian You have you my deepest sympathy in the loss of Becky. She was a classmate, a good friend,and I know that she missed. Sent: 2/27/2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Barbara Hodgen Omro Relationship: Former classmate One of my former classmates informed of me Becky's passing and e-mailed this website. I graduated with Becky in 1972 from Unity. I remember her intelligence and quiet wit! I am sorry for your loss. Barbara Hodgen Sent: 2/28/2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Susan Brillhart Grand Rapids Relationship: co-worker and friend I met Becky when we taught 3rd grade together at Buchanan elementary. She loved working with our Hispanic children and enjoyed using her Spanish. I fondly remember arguing with her points of science that came up in our lesson plans. Many here at Buchanan worked with her and miss her. We enjoyed her visit last year and was hoping to see her again. Is there a memorial fund that we may contribute too? She was a a beautiful person. Sent: 3/1/2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wes & Diana Dykstra Hull Relationship: Friend/classmate of Sue To the Maatman family. My heart goes out to you in your loss. It hardly seems real. Becky had such a dry wit and a comforting spirit. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her. We pray for God's love to surround you and give you peace in this difficult time. Wes & Diana Sent: 3/2/2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Joan and Grant Hayes Warner Robins Relationship: sister to our sister-in-law, Deb To The Maatman Family, WE were so sorry to hear about Becky's sudden passing and send our condolences. You will be in our prayers. Sent: 3/10/2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ruth Harthoorn Kocisko Sioux Center Relationship: friend To Becky's family, It didn't seem real to hear the news of Becky's death. I'm sure it didn't seem real to you either. Becky was a great friend. We could pick up our friendship after not seeing each other for several years and still find so much in common. About a year ago, I visited with her and learned that she had voted for Richard Nixon in 1972. I teased her about that! Little did we know at the time, how his presidency would turn out. She also helped me a great deal in resolving my regret and uncertainty about moving to Sioux Center and wondering whether it was a big mistake and whether I had "gone against God's will." Becky said very reflectively, "You know, sometimes I wonder whether God really cares one way or another about the decisions we make or if he wants us to make decisions ourselves. Either way we choose, we can serve him." After reflecting awhile on what she said, I came to peace with my decision to move to Sioux Center, which had seemed so wrong for several years. I've been able to move on, thanks to Becky's help. Thank you for raising such a wonderful daughter and sister. Ruth Harthoorn Kocisko Sent: 3/25/2010