Penny (Vander Jagt) Holstege
My deepest condolences to Derk's family. I haven't seen him in years but he and my Dad were good friends. My folks, Ike and June Vander Jagt, used to visit with your parents. I went along when I was younger. My Dad and your Dad served in the Army together and knew each other even before WWII. Derk (I often called him Uncle Dick) painted a larger than life-sized picture on our garage wall where we lived for 3 years as my father built our house. I slept in a bed right beneath that painting and loved the beautiful job your father did in painting it. I think I have a picture of it somewhere if you would like it. I was about 7 when he painted it and I am 70 now so it was done a long time ago but never was it forgotten even though we moved from that house in the late 70's. I remember listening to my Dad and Derk jabber away whenever they would get together. Two men who fought in WWII, were friends prior to it, and remained friends for life. My Dad and Mom died in 2010. I have often thought of your parents and I remember when your mother passed away. I didn't know where your Dad was although I knew he was still living. I am so sorry for your loss.