John Peter Althuizen of Novato, California, passed away at his home on April 26, 2023, at the age of 98.
John (named Johannes Petrus Althuizen), son of Leonardus and Anna Maria Althuizen, was born in Deurne, Netherlands, on December 17, 1924.
John grew up in Deurne. During the German occupation of the Netherlands in World War II, John became a member of the Dutch underground. When his hometown was liberated, the U.S. 7th Armored Division established its headquarters there. Because of his proficiency in foreign languages, John was asked to join the American army as an interpreter. He fought in several battles, including the Battle of the Bulge, and continued to fight as an American soldier for the remainder of the war. John was wounded twice and received two Purple Hearts. His second Purple Heart was presented to him in Normandy during his recent trip to Europe in 2022.
John was one of the longest serving foreign nationals in the American army during the war. When the American troops returned home, he was given the opportunity to join them, and he emigrated to the United States. He made his home in San Francisco, California, and became an American citizen.
In 1961, John returned to his hometown, where he met his wife, Jeanne Kommers, who was working at the local pharmacy. They were married in 1962 in Belmont, California, and moved to Novato in 1964, where John started his award-winning landscape business (Holland Landscape). John and Jeanne had four children – Desiree, Eric, Philip, and Astrid.
John lived his life to the fullest. He was happiest spending time with family and friends, traveling, watching his children’s ball games, and throwing barbecues and parties. He had a passion for planting flowers and trees, creating beautiful gardens and landscapes. He is most remembered for his strength, courage, generosity, and sense of humor; and for his love of family, friends, food, and chocolate.
John leaves behind his beloved wife Jeanne; daughter Desiree (Dave); son Eric (Debi); daughter Astrid (Matt); and his grandchildren Tyler, Sara, Shelby, and Rosie. John was preceded in death by his son Philip, who passed away in 2005.
A Mass to honor and celebrate John’s life will be held on June 2, 2023 at 11:00 am, at St. Mary’s Church 4100 Nicasio Valley Road, Nicasio, CA 94946. Reception to follow at Druid’s Hall 4499 Nicasio Valley Road, Nicasio, CA 94946.