Clarence Lee Van Rees, 68, of Belvidere IL passed away peacefully on July 22, 2012 at his home with his family and friends by his side after a courageous 13 year battle with cancer. Born on January 24, 1944 in Newton, Iowa, son of Edward and Lorene (Jansen) Van Rees. Clarence graduated from Pella Christian High School in 1962 in Pella, Iowa. In 1975 he graduated from the Rockford School of Theology as an ordained minister. He became the Pastor for the Church of Belvidere Open Bible where he ministered, inspired and touched many lives until his decision to relinquish his position in 1984. He continued to serve God and remained an active Christian within the community and his Church of Belvidere Assembly of God. He worked for the Belvidere school district and retired as head custodian at Lincoln Elementary in 2009. His passion in life was serving God and showing love to his family, friends, and anyone he came in contact with. He strived to lead an exemplary life as a Christian, and for those who knew him, will assure you that without a doubt was very successful in his selfless endeavor. Clarence will be dearly missed by his family and friends.Survivors include his best friend, trusted partner and the love of his life of nearly 28 years, Betty (Coil) Van Rees; Children, Curtis and Shelby Van Rees, Paul Coil; Grandchildren, Jeffrey, Desiree, Cynthia and Alexis; Brothers, Don, Steve and Randy; numerous nieces and nephews; Mother-in-Law, Mary Dawson. Predeceased by parents and his father-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.