John Weltevrenden

Weltevreden, John J. Passed away Thursday, December 15, 2016 at the age of 88. John was born on November 25, 1928 in Almelo, The Netherlands to the late Cornelius and Alida (Van Ryn) Weltevreden. He was united in marriage to Maria Poortvliet on April 18, 1979. Maria preceded him in death on June 17, 2001. John served in the Dutch Navy for 8 years. He was a longtime member of First Reformed Church of Kalamazoo. John had a lifelong passion for gardening and flowers, and frequented the Dahlia and Iris Clubs. Further, he enjoyed raising rabbits and was a member of the American Rabbit Breeders Association. John loved to dance and attended the German-American Club and VFW for dancing and social events. He was a firm believer in physical activity and liked walking, biking, swimming, and exercising at the Borgess Health and Fitness Center. John actively dedicated his time to Habitat for Humanity and the Shephard's Center. John is survived by his children, Karen Stewart and Ann Weltevreden-Penix; 2 grandchildren, Elizabeth and Jonathon Penix; sister, Maria Roberts; and 3 beloved nephews, Harold, Douglas and Malcolm. The family will greet friends on Tuesday, December 20th, 2016 from 12-1:00 PM at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St., where a memorial service will begin at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials in John's name may be directed to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission or to the Salvation Army. For obituary and condolences, please see John's personalized page at www.langelands.com.