Grace Evelyn Huglin Verburg

Grace Evelyn Huglin Verburg, passed away on August 17, 2016 at the age of 93. She was a loving wife, mother, teacher and friend. Throughout her life, her passion was education; acquiring, teaching and assisting others to gain knowledge. Receiving her bachelor's degree in Nutritional Science from Iowa State University, she achieved a Master's degree from Ohio State University. Her research studies contributed to diagnosing phenylketonuria (PKU), a serious disorder in babies. She taught at Alhambra High School for 20 years and established the Bio-Medical Independent Studies Program from 1972-1983. This program encouraged numerous science students to compete for the Nationwide Intel (later Westinghouse) Competition in Washington D.C.

After retirement, Grace joined PEO, an international philanthropic women's organization. From 1984-2015, she was involved with the PEO Scholar Awards Program, helping many young women across the nation achieve doctorate and post-doctorate degrees.

She was active in her church and community, tirelessly giving her time and energy to many causes.

Grace was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul, who passed away in 2010, and her sisters Mary and Margaret. She is survived by her children, Dr. David Verburg and Joan Courtney; 3 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; and nieces Jaclyn Norris and Dr. Norene Walsh and her family. A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 15, 2016 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM at Douglass & Zook. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, September 16, 2016 at Church of the Good Shepherd, Arcadia. She was a good and faithful person and will be missed by many.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to PEO Scholar Award Program, Executive Office, 3700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50312-2899.