Photo courtesy of Smits Funeral Home, Ltd. - Dyer
Dyer, Indiana
Apr 28, 1955 – Jul 31, 2020 (Age 65)
David (Dave) C. Rietveld, age 65, of Saint John, IN, was welcomed home into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Friday, July 31, 2020. Dave was born in Harvey, IL, and graduated from Illiana Christian High School where he excelled in basketball, academics and being a great boyfriend to his high school sweetheart and soon to be wife, Judy. Dave went on to attend Wheaton College (IL) where he received his BA in Economics. He then married Judy Rietveld nee DeBoer, and after college decided to pursue a career in vegetable farming and entrepreneurship. Dave was a hard worker, loved the land and always prepared for his favorite time of year, planting season, of which he enjoyed for 33 years. Dave and Judy raised their family on the farm in Kouts, Indiana. Riet is survived by his wife Judy, daughters Kari (John) Vandervelde and Leslie (Adam) Krueger as well as his son, Joel (Kristine) Rietveld. He was a devoted Papa to 10 grandchildren. David loved photography and spent the majority of his time behind the camera capturing his family and farm. He enjoyed watching and playing all sports but he especially loved the Cubs, Bears, and Hawks. Dave was a long-time member and served on the Elder Board at Liberty Bible Church in Chesterton, IN. Dave performed many leadership roles including Elder, President of Dutch Valley Growers and President of the National Onion Association to name a few. David is the brother of the late Thomas (Diane Rietveld Scarbrough) Rietveld and Daniel (Beth) Rietveld. Dave is also preceded in death by his parents Glenn and Caryl Rietveld. Dave was a friend to many, an inspiring father to his children, and a devoted husband to his wife of 44 years. David will be dearly missed. But his family stands strong knowing his earthly battle is over and he is eternally home. There will be a private celebration of life service for the family.
Memorial Contributions may be given to Faith Church or Wheaton College (IL) Athletic Department.
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.”
Romans 5:1-2
From my son Sander I have heard that your beloved husband David, passed away. He is in Heaven now, Judy, May the Lord help you in this difficult way and comfort you and the children too. I remind me with joy the visit to you in 2005 with my husband, who is in Heaven too. I wish you al the best.
Jany van der Knijff
August 14, 2020 | Emmeloord Nederland | Friend
We both have memories of Dave ...Mike from High School and me from RCYF at Faith Church
Our sympathy to you and your family Judy! God’s got him now God is good all the time !
Mike and Gail Vermeulen
Mike Vermeulen
August 14, 2020 | Dyer, IN | Classmate
Prayers are with the family and loved ones. May you feel God’s peace and comfort knowing Dave is whole again and resting in the arms of our Heavenly Father. In His love, Leo and Barb
Leo and Barb McIlvenna
August 11, 2020 | Kouts, IN | Friend
Our sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. Praying you will be comforted by Gods love.
Roger and Phyllis Gritters
Phyllis Gritters
August 07, 2020 | Saint John, IN | Neighbor
Judy and Family, On behalf of all your friends at Liberty Bible Church, we are saddened by Dave's departure from his temporary home here on earth. He was a real rock of wisdom as he served on the Elder Board as well as the many other things he did while a member at LBC. The landscaping he provided while attending here is a constant reminder of his contributions. Our thoughts are with you.
Bill Hanson
August 06, 2020 | Valparaiso, IN | Friend
David was a super funny guy and a wonderful Christian man and a great friend. He will be missed but is enjoying the company of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whom he served so faithfully while here on earth.
Joanne Wysong
August 06, 2020 | Chesterton, IN | Friend
Dear Judy and family. We would like to express our sincere condolences to you. The loss of Dave will leave a big gap in your lives. May the Lord comfort you. Like you wrote on FB, Dave has a new body now and is free of earthly troubles in heaven. This is a great comfort, but in the flesh we will miss him.
I got to know Dave and you in 1999 when visiting in Kouts. The friendliness and kindness in your house is one to remember. In 2007 we met again in Kouts, this time I was traveling...
Sander van der Knijff
August 05, 2020 | Emmeloord | Friend
Judy, our sympathy to you and your family. Went to school with Dave through grade school and high school, Dave was always one of the nicest guys! You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Diane (De Young) Jansma
August 05, 2020 | South Holland, IL | Classmate
Lost track after all the years. Lots of memories. My deepest sympathy to Judy and the family.
Dave Van Kuiken
August 05, 2020 | South Holland, IL | Classmate
