William "Bill" Bouwman

Rock Valley, IA: William “Bill” Raymond Bouwman, 82, of Rock Valley, Iowa, passed away Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Whispering Heights of Rock Valley. A funeral service will be held Thursday, August 28, at 10:30 AM at First Reformed Church of Rock Valley with Pastor Brad Langstraat officiating. The service can be livestreamed at https://www.rvfrc.org/. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery of Rock Valley. Visitation with the family present will be held Wednesday, August 27, from 6:00-8:00 PM at First Reformed Church.

   William “Bill” Bouwman, born September 29, 1942, in Rock Rapids, Iowa, to William and Renetta (De Jong) Bouwman, grew up on the family farm near Hills, Minnesota. There, alongside his siblings, he learned the value of hard work. In his sophomore year, the family relocated to Castlewood, South Dakota, where Bill graduated high school. He briefly attended Nettleton School of Business in Sioux Falls, South Dakota before embarking on his career.

   On February 21, 1964, Bill and the love of his life Carol Brands of Inwood, Iowa, began a marriage that spanned over 61 years. After two years near Castlewood, South Dakota, they settled in Rock Valley, Iowa, where, in 1976, they built their dream home east of town. Early in his career, Bill worked at Roorda Machine Shop and AMPI, but his entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Valley Dairy Farm Automation in 1982. He ran the business with dedication until his retirement in 2013.

   Bill’s greatest joy was his family, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His passion for woodworking was a gift he shared generously. A table and chair set, built in the 1960s, became a family treasure, used by generations for meals and playtime. In retirement, Bill poured even more love into his craft, creating gifts for his family members.

   At the heart of Bill’s life was his unwavering faith. He served First Reformed Church with devotion, teaching Sunday School, leading catechism classes, and serving as both deacon and elder. He was one of the founding board members of the Rock Valley chapter of Love, INC. For over 20 years, he also served on the board of the Gospel Mission in Sioux City, reflecting his commitment to serving others.

   On August 17, 2025, Bill entered his heavenly home at Whispering Heights in Rock Valley, at the age of 82. He leaves behind his wife, Carol and their children: Kevin (Melinda) Bouwman, Karla (Brad) Langstraat, Tammy (Matt) Westergaard, and Lisa (Tom) Allison; grandchildren Andy, Chris, Joseph, and Carrie (Cody Schmitt) Bouwman, Tricia (Cody) Groeneveld, Kirk and Danika Langstraat, Isaac (Emily), Lily, and Leah Westergaard; great-grandchildren James, Eli, and Eleanor Groeneveld; sister Edith (Alvin) Hoogendoorn, brothers James (Esther) Bouwman and John (Paula Swenson) Bouwman, and sister-in-law Joan Bouwman. He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Lisa Elaine; grandson, Josiah William Westergaard; parents, William and Renetta Bouwman; and siblings Edward (Sarah) Bouwman, Annetta (Vernon) Wiese, Ann (Fred) Tilstra, Martina (Gerrit) Vanden Brink, Angie (Ron) Faber, and Walt Bouwman.

   Bill’s life was defined by his deep faith, tireless work ethic, and boundless love for his family and community. His legacy of service, craftsmanship, and devotion will live on, inspiring all who were blessed to know him.