Jacob Derk Van Ramshorst
Jacob Derk Van Ramshorst, Sr. of Sugar Land, Texas passed away on Monday, October 28, 2024 at the age of 84. He was born on March 3, 1940 in McAllen, Texas to Johanes and Edna Van Ramshorst.
Jacob was a fun-loving and kindhearted man with brilliant blue eyes, and a contagious laugh and smile. He was loved by many. Jacob was married to his high school sweetheart for 63 years. They had three children, two granddaughters, and one great grandson.
Jacob graduated from McAllen High School. He later served in the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic, and was honorably discharged in 1962. He worked for General Telephone (GTE) for over three decades as a lineman, engineer, and project manager.
He worked with his wife in the porcelain doll business for many years, specializing in composition doll bodies. After retiring from GTE, Jacob went on to work at Home Depot for 21 years in the gardening center. He loved gardening and obtained his Texas Master Gardener certification in 2019. He enjoyed working in his yard, fishing trips to Canada, delicious food, and traveling across the United States. He read biographies and westerns, and old country western music was his favorite.
Jacob is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and sister, as well as his son, Jacob Van Ramshorst, Jr.
He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Van Ramshorst, oldest daughter Nancy Waterman, son-in-law Joseph Waterman, granddaughter Zoe Waterman, daughter-in-law Debbie Van Ramshorst, granddaughter Bridgette Van Ramshorst McCulloch, great grandson Reese McCulloch, youngest daughter Audrey Van Ramshorst, as well as many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life is planned for early 2025. Jacob will be interred in Houston National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a charity of your choice.
What an amazing person. I feel so lucky to have known him. My love and thoughts are with Bonnie and his whole family.
Much love,
Enid
RIP uncle. Last of your generation
I learned alot about Mr Van Ramshorst through his obituary. Now I know why his family is so kind, fun loving and creative. My love and prayers go to his wife and daughters. Love, Mary
Sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Van Ramshorst. May he rest in peace. Blessings and prayers,
Sister Ethel
Uncle JD always had the best smile and most contagious laugh in the room. His joy for life was evident, and he is already missed. We’ll always think of him when we fry fish in the future. 🎣 Many hugs to his bride, daughters, and family. ❤️
Our deepest condolences and prayers for the family in the passing of Uncle JD.
Bob and Twila Van Ramshorst and family
I already miss Uncle JD. He always had a smile on his face, a twinkle in his eye, and a joyous, heartfelt laugh. He was a caring companion to my Aunt Bonnie and father to my cousins. For these gifts, I will be forever grateful.
Rest in peace, my dear Uncle.
My deepest condolences to my friend Audrey and all the family. May God comfort you during this difficult time and always.
Karen
We feel blessed to have a neighbor like Mr Jacob. He was a true gentleman with a heart of gold. He always had a smile and never hesitated to share some good old stories from his earlier years. We knew him for over 17 years and always found him working hard and staying busy upkeeping his outside garden. We know he is in a better place and pray for patience for his family and loved ones. May God bless him and his entire family
Jacob was one of my most loyal, sweetest, and caring clients. I will cherish all the memories over the years I have of him. He will be dearly missed and we send our prayers.
Rest in Peace.
Ann & Family