Willem Douglas De Groot came into this world on September 18, 2011 and the Lord called him home on April 16, 2023. The hand of God has been evident in Willem's life before birth. Born premature, he started life in the NICU where God brought him safely through and home to his loving family. The youngest of four siblings, Willem lived his life to the fullest keeping up with his sister, older brothers, and cousins. He was smart, a self-starter and greeted each day excited to get outside and make the most of the day. Sometimes he even slept in his work clothes so he’d get out the door first as fast as he could. He loved the outdoors and was happiest playing outside and roaming the countryside with his brothers. He attended Central Valley Christian school and was a much loved friend, student, and part of the family of believers there. Willem and his family are members at Trinity URC and he loved going to church, Sunday school, and being part of the Cadet group and attending campouts. He loved working hard, getting dirty, and visiting his grandparents on the dairy for treats or to sit by the fire with grandpa. Willem loved Jesus, his family, and friends well. Willem is survived by his loving parents: Douglas and Jamie De Groot, siblings Allison, Jacobus, and Gerrit, great grandparents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, and many cousins. We grieve his loss, but we know and have this hope that our separation is temporary and we will be reunited with our sweet Willem who is rejoicing and held in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 : But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.
Visitation on Monday, April 24, 2023 from 5-7 PM at Miller Memorial Chapel 1120 W. Goshen Ave. Visalia, CA 93291.
Family burial prior to the Celebration of Life.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at 12:30 PM at Trinity URC 6400 West Walnut Ave. Visalia, CA 93277
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions can be made to the Central Valley Christian School Endowment Foundation: 5600 W. Tulare Avenue, Visalia, CA 93277
