Richard Matthew Dekker

Compton Rural, California. He died on July 10, 2021 at his home of 57 years in Artesia.

He was the youngest of seven children born to John and Catharina Dekker. Being an ambitious

boy, at the age of 12 he began mowing lawns for the Rynsburger Dairy to earn money. He

bought his first Trimmer mower with the money he earned, which he still has today. A perfectly

manicured lawn became a joyful pursuit and lifelong obsession for him. He then continued with

odd jobs as he grew older to pay for his own high school tuition at Valley Christian. After

graduating, he began attending welding classes at Fullerton Junior College.

On July 6, 1963 he married Lavina Niezen and they went on to have four children,

Charlene, Christine, Jim and Beth Ann. They celebrated 58 years of marriage this year.

He worked as a welder for several different companies until 1973, when he purchased

his own welding truck and opened Dekker’s Welding Service. He worked in the oil fields in

Southern California until he retired at the age of 72.

Rich was a creative man who loved to build and try new things. Over the years he tried

his hand at Woodworking, Sailing, Fishing, Camping and Flying Kites. He had a lifelong love of

reading and riding motorcycles. Many enjoyable hours were spent in the garage listening to

music and working on motorcycles. Music and singing were an important part of his life and he

happily shared his favorite songs.

His generous nature made him a man of action, and he was quick to help anyone in

need and tackle hard jobs. Leading his family by example he shared his faith and showed them

the importance of church, community and serving those around them.

Rich’s devotion to family was unwavering and he was an enthusiastic supporter of all

their interests. His love of life extended to those around him and many described him as a man

of encouraging words. Spending time with friends and family, laughing, and sharing stories was

an important part of his life. His laugh, smile, silly jokes and songs will be remembered by those

who knew him well.

Precious Wife

Lavina (Niezen) Dekker

Loving Father of

Charlene Dekker (Jeff Manpearl)

Christine (Dan) Rudolph

James (Christina) Dekker

Beth Ann (Doug) Buurma

Grandchildren

Connor, Collin and Catherine Rudolph

Emily (Tyler) Nestegard, Nick Dekker

Matthew and Ray Manpearl

Anneke and Caleb Buurma

Living Siblings

Corky Eskes and Hilda Gaalswyk