John "Jan" de Witte

Jan was the fifth of nine children born to Hendrik and Joukjen (Rusticus) de Witte on February 13, 1936 in Ferwoude, Friesland in the Netherlands. He immigrated to the United States with $67 in his pocket in October 1959 to pursue the American dream. His new career began on his sponsor's dairy in east Modesto.

Jan was a member of Blue Diamond Growers and attended Calvary Chapel. He also enjoyed involvement in local 4-H and FFA organizations mentoring young adults. He was most proud of graduating Cal Poly in 1967, building his own dairy herd, and buying farmland on the west side of Modesto where his children were raised and he farmed until his death.

Jan was the proud father of four children: Jeanette de Witte (Alan) of Oakdale, Christina Hill (Allan) of Modesto, Hendrik de Witte (Nicole) of Modesto, and Gerrit de Witte (Amanda) of Modesto. He loved being called Pake by his six grandchildren: Madison and Colin Condit, Jetske Hill, Colton and Collette de Witte, and Soren de Witte. He had eight siblings: his sister Akke (Herke) Van Rys of Ripon, CA; Sjoerd (Sebroke), Hinke (Jan), Yke (Janny) , Sijke (Hotse), Grietje (Gosse), Jetske (Siemen), and Joukjen all of the Netherlands. Jan was preceded in death by his parents, older brother Sjoerd and youngest sister Joukjen.

A Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Monday, June 22nd at Lakewood Funeral Chapel in Hughson. A Graveside Service will be held at 9:30 am, Tuesday, June 23 at Lakewood Cemetery in Hughson. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, June 23rd at Calvary Chapel in Modesto.

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