Ray VanderWoude ESCONDIDO --- Ray VanderWoude, 82, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2009, having patiently endured many years of Parkinson's disease. He was born March 27, 1927, in The Netherlands. He immigrated to the United States with his family in 1958, settling in North San Diego County. In 1963, he became an American citizen. Ray was self-employed in the farming and agriculture industry. He owned and operated an egg ranch in San Marcos for several years, then moved to Vista and owned and operated an avocado orchard for many years. In his retirement years he lived in Escondido and grew proteas. He enjoyed traveling, reading, playing games, spending time with his family, and volunteering at his children's and grandchildren's school. He was a very active and participating member of the Escondido United Reformed Church and was also active in the Calvin Christian School Community. Ray is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Edna VanderWoude of Escondido; five sons and daughters-in-law, Richard and Cheryl VanderWoude of Valley Center, Andy and Glenda VanderWoude of Parma, ID., Erwin and Lori VanderWoude of Valley Center, George and Bridget VanderWoude of Parma, ID., and Pete and Cyndi VanderWoude of Escondido; as well as four daughters and three sons-in-law, Brenda and Jay Fromlath, Joan Ferri , Susan and Jeff Boersma, and Anita and William deJong, all of Escondido. He is also survived by two sisters, Jane Brouwer of Escondido, Tjitske Nauta of Holland; and one brother, Aebele VanderWoude of Holland. He also left behind 29 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. A private family viewing will be held at Alhiser-Comer Mortuary on Sunday, April 19, from 12 noon to 4 p.m. A private family graveside service at Oak Hill Memorial Park on Monday, at 9 a.m., Monday, April 20, and a Memorial service at the Escondido United Reformed Church, 1864 North Broadway, Escondido, at 11:30 a.m., Monday, April 20, 2009. The family suggests donations be made to the Calvin Christian School Endowment Fund, 2000 North Broadway, Escondido, 92026, or Silverado Senior Living, 1500 Borden Rd. Escondido, 92026. Arrangements are under the direction of Alhiser-Comer Mortuary. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com