Rev. J. Vander Heide (1925-1944)

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Rev. Vander Heide had the longest pastorate of all the pastors at Leota Bethel.
Due to poor economic conditions in the nation, low prices, drought, and dust storms; financial obligations were difficult to meet in the church and on the farm. In 1933 the church's received funds totaled $1999 with an additional $230 that was given to missions.
Many young men of the church were involved in World War II. 50th anniversary observed, church basement excavated, pipe organ no. 1 installed, and morgage burned. English services introduced and English language used in more organizations.
Rev. and Mrs. Vander Heide became the parents of three sons, James, John, and Matthew. Grace Vander Heide died in 1930 and is buried in the Leota cemetery.
In 1932 he married Mrs. Marie Juist. She had a daughter, Jean Juist. Rev. Vander Heide retired from the ministry, but later served a church at Arcadia, Nebraska.

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