Richard Van Leeuwen

The family of Richard “Dutch” Van Leeuwen is deeply saddened to announce his unexpected passing on August 8, 2026. Born on December 5, 1948, Dutch lived his life devoted to his family and close friends. Everyone who met him instantly liked him. He had a natural ability to make people feel comfortable in his presence, and he loved making people laugh. Dutch was unforgettable—and he never forgot anyone who crossed his path, whether they were part of his life for a few moments or for decades.

Born to Nellie and Johannes Van Leeuwen, Dutch immigrated with his family to the United States from Rotterdam, Netherlands, at the age of five. The family settled in Prospect Park, New Jersey, where Dutch grew up and attended Manchester High School. He loved reminiscing about his high school years, especially his time playing football and basketball. His athletic ability, combined with his intellect, earned him a scholarship to play basketball at Wagner College. Upon graduating from college, he started his career at Bell Labs and had a long, successful career at AT&T. His career ended as a CTO for Sphera, a telecommunications start-up.

Dutch met Joanne, the love of his life, when they were just 14 years old. He was especially proud of the story of how they first met—chasing her down the street with his dog. Their young friendship grew into a lifelong love, and they married in 1970, beginning a marriage filled with love, family, laughter, and countless memories.

Dutch was an athlete at heart throughout his life. He was an avid golfer and continued to stay healthy by going to the gym and walking every day. When he could no longer compete himself, he found just as much joy in watching his children and grandchildren play their favorite sports. He was immensely proud of each of them and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on. When he wasn't in the stands watching his grandchildren, Dutch could often be found watching the Yankees, the Giants, or Duke basketball. He was a loyal fan through every season, good or bad.

Above all else, Dutch was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be lovingly remembered forever by his wife, Joanne; his daughter, Michele, and her husband, Paul; his son, Michael, and his wife, Alison; and his son, Matthew, and his wife, Kristin. He was a proud grandfather to the “Great Eight,” as he lovingly called them: Natalie, Nicolas, Ava, Grace, Jacob, Tyler, Luke, and Jules.

Dutch is also survived by his siblings, Mieke, Marie, and John; his brother-in-law, Joseph Dragone; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and friends whose lives he touched throughout the years. He is predeceased by his brother, Frank Van Leeuwen.

Dutch leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, stories, and memories that will be cherished by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered, always.

A memorial service will be held on August 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus 31 S. Broad Street Ridgewood, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charities that were near and dear to Dutch’s heart: The National MS Society, The ALS Association, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.