Pieter David Tillema

Pieter was born in the village of Leens, Netherlands. In 1958, he immigrated with his family, arriving by ship in New York before eventually settling in Chino, California.

He enjoyed a successful career in welding. His early career was spent working for the family business, Tillema Tank, and he later moved on to Trusco Tank/CBI, where he continued to apply his skills and craftsmanship.

Pieter is survived by his beloved partner of over twenty years, Phyllis Soto; his two sons, Sean Tillema and David Tillema; David’s wife, Rachel; and their two children, Rylan and Landon. He is also survived by his brothers, Eddie Tillema and Louie Tillema, and his sister, Anja Postma Tillema.

To Phyllis’ daughters, Veronica and Ramona, Pieter was a father figure, and to her grandchildren, Anthony and Anisa, he was lovingly known as their “Opa.”

Pieter enjoyed his horses and his other animals, creating many beautiful paintings, and was an expert speed skater — a skill he learned in his youth in Holland. He treasured every opportunity throughout his life to travel back to his homeland to visit relatives, and later he and Phyllis shared many adventures traveling across the United States and around the world.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Janice Tillema (2000); his parents, Johannies (Joe) Tillema and Hillegiena (Hilda) Tillema; his brother, Jake Tillema; and his sister, Miriam Tillema.

Pieter was a hardworking, kind man who put his family first, always. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.