Leonard Eugene DeRuiter

Leonard was a lifelong resident of Hanford, California; growing up on the family owned and operated farm. He attended Hanford Christian School and then enrolled in the Vocational Agricultural Program at Hanford High School. It was during his secondary education that he became motivated by his outstanding agricultural instructors, who in return, encouraged his own personal calling and career as an educator and mentor to countless students and colleagues in the agricultural industry.

Upon graduation from California Polytechnic State University (SLO) in 1962, he was selected and trained as a U.S. Peace Corps Member. He worked in the challenging rural development program in Senegal, West Africa. After this experience, it was only natural for him to return to the community where he had first received the inspiration and aspiration to become a Vocational Agricultural Educator.

After obtaining his Masters’ Degree, he taught in the classroom and led the Agricultural Department at Hanford High School for 38-years. Due to his commitment to high moral standards, hard work, and numerous hands-on-experiences; he became the leadership behind a top-ranking chapter in California for state and national winning competitive teams. In addition, he led various curriculum projects and activities over the years to train students not only at the local level, but also at the national and international levels.

To further the next generation of agricultural leaders, he also managed the Master Teacher Program for those teachers starting their college and career pathway to Vocational Agricultural Education through Hanford High School. He also served as an adjunct professor at College of Sequoias (Visalia) and California Polytechnic State University (SLO). The key to Leonard’s tenure, however, was the involvement of the many great families of this supportive farming community.

Complimenting the professional activities of Leonard in the community was his faith and dedication to being an active member and board representative of the First Christian Reformed Church of Hanford, Hanford Christian School, Central Valley Christian School, and Sierra Village. It was a great joy for him to be involved with friends and colleagues both on a personal and a professional level. Those special lasting friendships brought many trips of adventure and photos, which he was always willing to share with others.

Leonard leaves behind his loving wife, Rose DeRuiter of 50-years, and his two daughters: Chantel (Edwin) Vercauteren of Tulare, California, and Monique (Ben) Ouwinga of Visalia, California. Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mata; along with his brother, Donald DeRuiter. He is survived by his brothers Gerald (Judy) DeRuiter, John DeRuiter, and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 13, 2016 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at People’s Funeral Chapel; 501 N. Douty St., Hanford, Ca. A Celebration of Life for Leonard DeRuiter will be held on Monday, November 14, 2016 at 10:00 am at the First Christian Reformed Church; 2175 Leoni Dr., Hanford, Ca.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the following organizations: Hanford High FFA, Sierra Village, and Hanford Christian School.

Family and Friends are invited to view Leonard’s legacy at www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com and send condolences to the family.

Services are under the direction of People’s Funeral Chapel.