Raymond Rimmer Van Der Hoek

Raymond Van Der Hoek went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on December 4, 2025. He passed away peacefully at Orange Coast Memorial Hospital in Fountain Valley at the age of 82. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who enriched the lives of all who knew him.

Born on January 22, 1943, in Kubaard, Friesland, Raymond was the third of eight children of Hans and Jeltje Van Der Hoek. He spent his formative years on the family farm, surrounded by six brothers and one sister, and was known for his sharp wit and fondness for practical jokes. The landscapes of the Netherlands and the warmth of his family shaped his character and values from an early age.

A proud Friesian, Raymond excelled in ice skating—having completed the renowned Elfstedentocht (Eleven-City Tour)—and was skilled in kaatsen (Friesian handball). His appreciation for his heritage was evident throughout his life, as he eagerly shared stories and traditions of the "Old Country" with others.

After serving honorably in the Royal Dutch Navy from 1962 to 1963, Raymond immigrated to the United States in 1964. He settled in California and initially worked in the dairy industry. In 1967, while living with his brother Roelof and working for Hank Struikman’s Dairy, Raymond met Shirley Vander Zee. In 1969, he transitioned from the dairy business to a full-time career in real estate in Victorville and surrounding areas, demonstrating adaptability and commitment in every endeavor. Raymond and Shirley were married on April 26, 1974, beginning a 51-year journey of devotion.

Raymond found great fulfillment in community life. He was a master of the Friesian card game Klaverjas and enjoyed lively games of Thirteen with family and friends. Renowned for his storytelling, he possessed extensive knowledge of Dutch and Friesian genealogy and delighted in tracing family connections and sharing cherished memories. Raymond brought joy to those around him with his humor and believed deeply in the unifying power of laughter.

He is deeply mourned by his wife, Shirley; daughter-in-law, Ivonne; and beloved grandchildren, Elijah and Leah. Raymond is also survived by five brothers and one sister, residing in both the United States and abroad, who will always treasure his wisdom and tales. Though his passing brings profound sadness, his memory endures as a legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering faith.

We also remember that Raymond has been reunited in heaven with his beloved son, John, his brother Jelle, and his brother-in-law Charlie who preceded him in death in 2024.