James De Bruin

James H. “Jim” De Bruin, age 84, of Little Chute, passed away on February 13, 2018, surrounded by many loved ones and the love of his life, Dolores “Mum”. He was born in Little Chute, son of the late Frank and Agnes (Vandenberg) De Bruin. On June 30, 1954, Jim married Dolores Vande Hey at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, Little Chute, and together they have shared 64 years of marriage.

Jim lived to work. He was a very hard worker, and very proud of the work he did as a pipefitter. He enjoyed talking shop with the guys and treated everyone the same on the job. Jim enjoyed polka music, big band music and playing his trumpet in local bands. Most of all, Jim loved his family. He loved when the whole family could get together. He especially enjoyed family trips such as Super Bowl XXXI, Disney, Europe, Kentucky, New York, Yellowstone, and many others, whether near or far.  They will truly miss his laughter, jokes, help with around-the-house projects, and “Santa”.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores; his children: Nancy (Dennis) Van Sambeek, Amy (Ryan) Riehl, Tammy (Tom) Hansen, Laurie (Dave) Ademino, Renee (Chris) Van Sambeek and Jamie (Heidi) De Bruin; grandchildren: Ann (Scott) Schuh, Jay (Heather) Van Sambeek, Jill (Beau) Morley, Billy (Stacy) Van Sambeek, Ramsey (Nikki) Riehl, Rhen Riehl, Whitney Hansen, Shelby (Tyler) Ambrosius, Chelsea (Mike) Shillin, Haley (Ryan) Evers, Shay Van Sambeek, Ty Van Sambeek, Matayla De Bruin, Mikendra De Bruin and Mecheznie De Bruin; great grandchildren: Jaden, Justice, Sophia, Ruby and Mason; brothers and sisters-in-law: Carol De Bruin, Ethel Vande Hey, Nancie (Mel) White, Tom (Lisa) Vande Hey, Sharon Vande Hey, Wayne (Luann) Vande Hey and Dale (Debbie) Vande Hey; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Agnes De Bruin; siblings: Betty (Joe) Peerenboom, Joyce (Shy) Bouressa and Tom De Bruin; father and mother-in-law, Nick and Hon Vande Hey; brothers-in-law: Jerry, Gene and Bruce Vande Hey.

Memorial services will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 16, 2018, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Chuch, 323 S. Pine Street, Little Chute, with Msgr. James Vanden Hogen officiating. Visitation will be at the church on Friday from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the Mass. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established in Jim’s name. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.

The De Bruin family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Montgomery Elmer for all of the constant, compassionate care over the years. Also to Sister Gertrude Geiger for your many letters.

“Dad, Ya done good!”

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