Jay Lynn Verbrugge was born in Sioux City, Iowa on July 17, 1966. As a young boy, he was adopted into the family of James J. and Velma D. (Vande Brake) Verbrugge of Sanborn, IA and was welcome home by older siblings, Luann and Jeff. He grew up on the family farm north of Sanborn with his brother and sisters, helping out with farm chores and his Dad’s dairy operation. He received his early education at Sanborn Christian School, graduating from Sheldon High School with the class of 1984.

    In 1989, Jay moved to Pride Group of Primghar, IA, living in that community for the next 20 years. Free time usually found him with a fishing pole in his hand or spinning a ball down the lane at the local bowling alley where he bowled league for a few years. He also liked attending Figure 8 races and keeping his hands busy with needlepoint, crochet and other creative crafts. 

    In February of 2011, Jay relocated to Pride Group in Le Mars, IA where he was involved with ministry work as a member of Rejoice Community Church of that city. He worked at the Helping Hands thrift store and was a dishwasher at Lolly’s both located in Le Mars. By nature, Jay was a giving, compassionate person – he honestly enjoyed helping others and was always willing to share his time wherever he was needed. Not surprising then, he should also belong to the Eagles Club, volunteering with activities and events to support charitable and social causes. He found baking to be a relaxing pastime and probably gave more goodies away then he kept for himself – he was loved by everyone he met.

    Due to health issues, Jay made a move, in April of this year, to Community Memorial Health Center in Hartley, IA where he passed away on Monday, August 4, 2025, at the age of 59 years. He now joins his parents, Jim and Velma Verbrugge; his grandparents: Gerald and Ruth Vande Brake, Nick and Katherine Verbrugge and step-grandmother, Stella Verbrugge; great-nephew, Braxton Hicks; great-niece, Genesis Vanden Brink; and several beloved aunts and uncles.

   Left to cherish his memory are his siblings: LuAnn Bosma of Pipestone, MN, Jeffery Verbrugge of Woodstock, MN, Lynette (Robert) Johnson of Sibley, IA, and Lana Vanden Brink of Hartley, special family friend, Kent Wilkens of Archer, IA; nine nieces and nephews; several great-nieces; and other relatives and friends.

~ Blessed Be His Memory ~

The Funeral  and Graveside Burial are private family services.

~ ​​​​​​Thank You for your consideration ~