Jan "John" Vanwingerden

Rotterdam Junction – Jan “John” vanWingerden, 89, passed away Monday October 7, 2019. Born in Woubrugge, Netherlands, he was the son of Christopher and Alberdina vanWingerden. He left Holland at the age of 17 to come to the United States with hopes of becoming a farmer but would soon learn that it was not what he wanted to do. He would end up becoming a Mason by trade working with several companies, eventually working for BBL and retiring in 1995 as a project manager. John served in the United States Air Force from December 1950, during the Korean War until December of 1954. He received his basic training at Lackland Air Force base and then proceeded to aircraft mechanic school in Illinois. Immediately after his schooling he was deployed to Germany as an aircraft mechanic. Prior to his tour of duty in Germany he became a US citizen. John loved to read war stories, listen to country music and visit his home country. For over 60 years he was a mason & a shriner and was a past fire commissioner with the Pattersonville Fire Department. He also was a member of the Woestina Reformed Church for over 60 years. Survivors include his wife, Lorraine. He is also survived by a daughter, 3 grandchildren, a son-in-law and stepson. A memorial service will be held 1pm Saturday at Woestina Reformed Church 1397 Main St., Rotterdam Junction. A calling hour from 12-1 pm will precede the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be in made in John’s memory to the Alzheimer’s disease Association 4 Pine West Plaza #405, Albany, NY 12205.