Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Jan van der WERFF Obituary
van der WERFF, Atty. Jan
Attorney Jan van der Werff, 53, the husband of Susan (Lafontaine) van der Werff, died suddenly Friday (June 21, 2013) at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford. Jan lived in Hartford for most of his life moving to Bloomfield nine years ago. He was the son of the late Dr. Jacob and Anne (Gilmartin) van der Werff. He was a graduate of Northwest Catholic High School "78", and earned his undergraduate (Magna cum laude) and law degrees from the University of Connecticut. Over the years he practiced in many areas of the law, but his expertise was as a proficient and noted workers' compensation attorney, who was devoted to the welfare of his clients and co-workers. Most recently he practiced in Windsor, CT at Pavano & van der Werff, LLC. He was a member of the CT Bar Association and the CT Trial Lawyers Association. He is survived by his wife Susan of Bloomfield; son Ian P. van der Werff of New Haven; daughter, Jennifer Reese; and granddaughter Olivia Purcell both in Windsor. His brothers Andreas L. van der Werff of Ocean City, MD, and Nicholas J. van der Werff and his wife Brenda of South Sutton, NH also survive him. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Maria Pirie. He also leaves several nieces and nephews who loved him greatly and will miss the numerous funny stories he was famous for telling. He also leaves his devoted and trusted paralegal, Susan Vincent, who he relied on each and every day and who never let him down.
Friends are invited to join Jan's family at a Memorial Service on Thursday June 27 at 11 a.m. in the Molloy Funeral Home 906 Farmington Ave. West Hartford. Private interment of his ashes will be at a later date. Calling hours will be Wednesday June 26 from 6-8 p.m. in the funeral home. Donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer Assn., CT Chapter, 2075 Silas Deane Highway, Suite 100, Rocky Hill, CT 06067 or Habitat for Humanity 780 Windsor St. Hartford, CT 06120. Online remembrances may be made at www.molloyfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jan van der WERFF
Angel Luis Cruz
June 18, 2022
You are Dearly missed jan, R.I.P. sir you were without a Doubt a real soul, God Bless you, one of the Best Attorneys I have ever had the honor of knowing. Rest easy amigo.
Lisa King
June 20, 2014
Atty. Jan you are gone, but will never be forgotten. Rest in paradise my friend.
Sarah Glynn
January 4, 2014
I just learned of Jan's death. He and I were neighbors and classmates at Noah Webster. I remember him as such a bright, smiling boy. My sincere condolences to the entire Van Der Werff family for your loss.
Clarence Outlaw
October 4, 2013
I miss you jan... I just saw you not to long ago. I can not believe your gone ... You were my friend and a great guy.. From the guy who couldn't relax. RIP
Donna Sullivan
October 2, 2013
I am in total shock just heard the news... He was a great guy and my attorney and friend. Rest in Peace jan
John Simonetti
September 20, 2013
I was shocked to learn of Jan's passing. Condolences from the entire Simonetti family. We all have many fond memories of Jan and the whole Van Der Werffe family. Growing up in the West End of Hartford, my brothers, sisters and I were inseparable from the Van Der Werffes, spending countless hours together at each other's homes and in the neighborhood. My father was especially fond of Jan because he was such a bright and gregarious kid. Nick and Andy stay strong. Jan will be greatly missed, but our memories of him will always stay with us.
Lisa King
August 14, 2013
I just received a letter notifying me of Jan' s passing, I would like to express my deepest Sympathy to all.. We all Loved Jan, but, God Loved him best.
August 14, 2013
I'm in total shock. As my Att/friend Jan always had my best interest at heart. I remember coming to see him to pick up my workers comp. check and it had not come in,since he knew my struggles he said "no, I'm sorry your check is not here, since he knew I had little one's he said if you need a few bucks I can help and put his hand in his pocket" he even considered giving me a job at one point, who does that? I'm very broken hearted, as much as we faught he was the man. May God bless his soul. His memories will always live in my heart. He is greatly appreciated for all the hard work and his sense of humor. My condolences to the family.
ANGEL Cruz
August 13, 2013
I JUST RECIEVED A LETTER INFORMING ME OF JANS PASSING. AS I WRITE THIS MESSAGE TO HIS FAMILY&LOVED ONES I HAVE A HEAVY HEART AND A KNOT IN MY THROAT AND ITS HARD TO EXPLAIN WHY. I DIDNT LOOK AT JAN ONLY AS MY ATTORNEY BUT AS A RESPACTABLE FRIEND WHOM IM GONNA MISS MUCH, JAN WAS MY ATTORNEY FOR OVER SIX YEARS AND THE MN WAS AN AWESOME GENTLEMAN, FRIEND,ATTY, FUNNY AND SO HONEST. I AM GONNA MISS YOU JAN, THANK YOU FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP AND HARDWORK. GOD BLESS YOU. :-(
July 2, 2013
Nick,
I just heard about this! I'm in shock. I would have been there if I had known. My heart is heavy. I'm in tears as I write this. Contact me.
Michelle
[email protected]
Suzann Beckett
June 29, 2013
To Jan's family,
I was shocked to return from vacation to learn that Jan had passed. He was my best friend through law school, and my law partner for several years. We were inseparable in those days and no one could have been a better friend - he was bright, funny, loyal, and just fun to be around. I have so many fond memories of our times together. He's gone much, much too soon. I'm sorry for your loss, and how tragic for Andy and Nick, and all of the extended van der Werff family, to have lost 2 siblings so young. My thoughts are with you.
Kurt Hildenbrandt
June 27, 2013
To Jan's family ,
I am very sorry to hear of Jan's passing. We worked together many years ago during our college years at Hartford United Parcel Service. Jan's personality and smile would light up any room he entered. You felt you were his friend from the first time you met him.
He was a pleasure to be around.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Jan and his family.
Phillip Emerson
June 26, 2013
I can remember like it was yesterday when I Met Jan and his brother Andy it was the first day they moved into the Whitney Street house. Jan was great friend and I am glad I knew him through all my childhood and some of my adult years.
God Speed my friend.
June 26, 2013
To Jan's family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I also was part of NWC class of '78, and remember Jan's infectious smile and laughter. Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Ed, Mary- NWC '09, and Anne Edmonds Sopelak
Kim White
June 26, 2013
My deepest sympathy for the Van Der Werff family. I worked for Jan and Suzanne and Beckett & Van Der Werff many years ago and Jan was so funny! I always enjoyed being made to watch his practice court sessions. I'm sure he's raising the bar in heaven!
June 26, 2013
Jan was a student of mine in trial practice at UConn Law. He was not only a terrific student but we remained friends all through his career. Jan was always there for me whenever I had a worker's comp question. He was a fabulous lawyer and a lovely person. He will always be remembered for his outgoing personality and kindness. So sorry for your tragic loss. he will be missed by so many.
Jim Bartolini
Alice Baughn
June 26, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Jan's family. He was a true gentlemen and I enjoyed working with him in the CT Workers' Compensation arena.
Eddie DiPillo Jr
June 26, 2013
I have many great memories of Jan in our younger days and moments that are so heartening, funny and enjoyable that I remember them like they were yesterday. I haven't seen Jan in many years since but these thoughts and memories I have with him and carry forward make me thankful and fortunate to have known him and experienced part of my life with him. My deepest sympathies go to Jan's wife, children and the rest of the van der Werff family.
Kevin Rabbett
June 25, 2013
I was very sad to hear of Jans passing. He was not only my attorney but became a friend. I will always remember his smile and sense of humor. He will be greatly missed. My heartfelt condolences to Susan and family.
Amy Brimmer
June 25, 2013
Dear Van Der Werff Family: We are deeply saddened at the news of Jan's passing. Along with so many other things, we will always be grateful for the precious gift from Jan (& Susan) of a week in The Cape at your home when our family truly had nothing to celebrate. Although we cannot be there for the services due to Tim's illness/flareup, we are there with all of you in spirit. Prayers sent your way during this sad time and in the difficult days ahead. We will remember Jan forever present and as beautiful as the ocean tide. With love and sympathy, Tim and Amy Brimmer & family
peter turmel
June 25, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Lynne Richards
June 25, 2013
Dear Sue, Ian and Jenn,
Please accept my condolences. I was sorry to hear about Jan's passing and your loss. His sense of humor and wit were boundless. I will always remember the ongoing saga of "I Can't Believe it's a Law Office". He was a very memorable person and will be missed.
Ruth Dunn
June 25, 2013
To Jan's family, please accept my heartfelt condolences on your loss. I remember Jan very well from those long ago days living in the West End in the 1970s and 80s -- he was my pal Andy's kid brother, the guy we could always count on to be up for a game of softball, or for a party, or to joke around with, to hang out. I'm sorry I never knew Jan as a man, but as a kid he was funny, smart and down-to-earth, with a kind, generous and loving personality and a strong sense of loyalty to his friends and family. It's a terrible thing, to lose such a person, so young, and we ought to -- we must -- feel that the world is less without him. Again, please accept my deepest sympathy, and know that we will miss him sorely.
Eva Dunn
June 25, 2013
I am so very sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Jan growing up. I remember watching Red Sox games with him when I was a kid.
Doc ...
June 24, 2013
Jan-the flat out BEST guy-true friend and loving father,husband...you will truly be missed
Walt Kosar
June 24, 2013
I am very sorry to hear of Jan's passing. We grew up together and he was a great friend. My thoughts go out to the whole family. Jan was a really, really nice guy, with an awesome sense of humor. We will all miss him!
Robin Harris-Allen
June 24, 2013
Jan was my friend and my tears flow freely for him. It was a great honor to just know him. He was sweet,kind and funny and the Northwest Catholic Class of 1978 has suffered a great loss. He will be greatly missed.
Raymond DeCampos
June 24, 2013
"We go back to 1st grade @ Noah Webster, right through Northwest. He was one of the smartest, funniest, and most loyal friends I have ever had. There are far too few like him. Jan, I will remember your friendship and laughter always..."
Jim Angelo
June 24, 2013
I am devastated to hear of Yan's passing. He was not just my attorney but also a good friend. We talked many times outside of the office and i will miss our conversations. He was truly a genuine person and i will miss him dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with Susan and Jennifer at this difficult time. His presence will be missed.
John Greiner
June 24, 2013
Jan practiced kindness as well as law. I will deeply miss his presence in the world. He and his family will be in my prayers where I know his spirit will be.
Kimberly Sanders
June 24, 2013
On behalf of President/Chief Administrator David Eustis and the entire Northwest Catholic High School community, I offer my deepest sympathy on the passing of Jan van der Werff '78.
Jan and his son Ian van der Werff '07 are both cherished members of the NWC family. We share the van der Werff family's grief as they mourn the too-early death of their beloved father, grandfather, sibling, brother-in-law, and dear friend to many.
Please know that we will remember Jan and all the van der Werffs in a special way during our daily prayers this week and also at our first school-wide Mass in September. We are so very sorry for your loss.
~ Kimberly Sanders, Director of Communications, Northwest Catholic High School
Brian Prucker
June 24, 2013
It was with great sadness I learned of the passing of my friend Jan. I will miss his humorous analysis of society and the law. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jan and his family.
Chris Grotz
June 24, 2013
Devastating loss. Janny was there to help me when I needed him most. Will miss him much and for a long, long time.
Russ and Patty Bengtson
June 24, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jan made a huge difference in this world and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Jan Van Der Werff
June 24, 2013
To the family and friends,
I am so so sorry for your loss. Jan is and was one of the most amazing men we have known. Family and friends came first. We have known him since 1998. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all his family. Jan you will be greatly missed!!!!
Love,
Michael and Wendy Lowell
And family
Kristin Bonneau
June 24, 2013
I am wrought with sadness by this tragic news. He was the kindest hearted man I ever had the pleasure of working with and learning from. I absolutely adored him, as did everyone who knew him. My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to his family.
Sally McGoldrick
June 24, 2013
Jan was truly a gifted man who made our world more compassionate and forgiving. It was truly a privilege to have known him. My deepest sympathies are extended to his wife and family.
Sally McGoldrick
Mark & Sandy Morawski
June 24, 2013
Words cannot begin to describe the sadness of the passing of my neighbor and friend Yan. I know and trust the lord will comfort and guide Susan and the entire Van Der Werff family during this difficult time.
Mark & Sandy Morawski
June 24, 2013
Words cannot describe the sadness I feel with the passing of my neighbor and friend Jan. I pray and trust that the Lord will provide Susan and the entire Van Der Werff family, strength , courage and guidance during these difficult days.
Wendi Shea
June 24, 2013
I will miss you Jan, you were a funny guy. Thanks for your help, and I hope you are at peace.
Showing 1 - 40 of 40 results
Make a Donation
in Jan van der WERFF's name
Memorial Events
for Jan van der WERFF
Funeral services provided by:
Molloy Funeral Home - West Hartford906 Farmington Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06119
How to support Jan's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Jan van der WERFF's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
