John De Jong

(1927 - May 1, 2008)

John De Jong, 81, of Holland, passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2008 at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.

He was preceded in death by his son, John De Jong Jr. on April 3, 2002.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Rose De Jong of Holland; his daughter, Sandra De Jong-Jones of Holland; and his nieces and nephews.

Born in Holland, he graduated from Holland High School and from Hope College in 1953. He also attended the University of Michigan while working on his Master’s Degree. He was a veteran of the United States Marines serving during World War II in Iwo Jima. He retired from Fremont High School after teaching in the Holland Public and Fremont Public School Systems. He served on the Fremont City Council from 1970 to 1980 and as Mayor from 1980 to 1983.

A graveside service was held on Monday, May 5, in the Grandville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Michigan or Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Arrangements by Dykstra Life Story Funeral Homes, Inc. - Mulder Chapel, (http://www.lifestorynet.com/memories/35993/).