Maebel Nieuwsma, 85, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.  She was born on August 27, 1940, to John and Gertrude Vander Laan, and from the beginning she carried the gentle strength, kindness, and steady spirit that would define her life.

On October 20, 1961, Maebel married her soulmate, Jim Nieuwsma. Their 56 years of marriage were filled with devotion, partnership, and a deep love that shaped their family. Together they raised four children, three sons and a daughter, who were the pride and joy of their lives.

Maebel spent many years working at Campbell County Bank, where she was known for her warm smile, her reliability, and the genuine care she showed to customers and coworkers alike. Her presence brought comfort and familiarity to all who crossed her path.

Outside of work, Maebel found joy in the simple, meaningful rhythms of life. She loved tending to her garden, nurturing flowers and plants with patience and care. She was an avid reader who delighted in a good book and often shared her favorites with family and friends. In her retirement years, she especially cherished traveling with Jim and spending time with the people she loved most.

Maebel is survived by her children; Gaylan Nieuwsma, Cypress, TX, Clinton Nieuwsma, Pollock, SD, Carlyn (Susan) Nieuwsma, Sioux Falls, SD and Roxane (Scott) Huber, Sioux Falls, SD; her grandchildren, Eric Huber, Mason Nieuwsma, Landon Nieuwsma, Tanner Nieuwsma; her step‑grandchildren, Angela Hlavka, Matthew Bakke and Heather Jurrens.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2018; her siblings, Wayne and Virgil Vander Laan and her grandparents.

Funeral services will be held at Hope Reformed Church in Westfield, ND, on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided after the funeral service, and burial will follow at Dale Cemetery in Emmons county, ND.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church.

Maebel will be remembered with deep love, gratitude, and admiration by all who were blessed to share in her life.