Jesse Cornelius Van Hout

Jesse Cornelius Van Hout, 74, of Peoria, AZ, passed away on January 20, 2025. Born in Appleton, WI, on August 3, 1950, he was the son of Frank Van Hout and Celestia (Timm) Dake. He attended Wrightstown High School and had just celebrated his 50th class reunion in the summer of 2024. After relocating to Arizona in 1977, he developed a deep appreciation for the state's beauty, especially its breathtaking sunsets. Jesse wore many different career hats throughout his life. He was most proud of the 15 years he spent building and operating The Clean Machine Inc. in Tucson, AZ. His career also included successful years as a car salesman in both Tucson and Phoenix. Later in life, his entrepreneurial spirit took him on the road, traveling in his Fleetwood motorhome and selling hats at various festivals and events. Beyond work, Jesse found joy in simple pleasures. Collecting coins and watching gold mining shows were favorite pastimes, as were classic Westerns - especially anything starring John Wayne. A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, he enjoyed attending sporting events and NASCAR races whenever he could, and catching games on TV and eating chicken wings. However, time spent with family and friends was what he cherished most. During retirement, bringing a smile-and perhaps a laugh-to others became his personal mission. Jesse's kind heart and sense of humor left a lasting impression on those he met. Jesse is survived by his loving daughter, Angela Erlinger, and son-in-law, Jedediah Erlinger. His greatest joy came from being a grandfather to Sienna and Logan Erlinger. Also surviving him are his brothers, Daniel (Patti) Dake and John (Heidi) Dake; his sisters, Susan Biese and Sally (Jerry) Getlinger; his surviving sisters-in-law, Sharon Dake and Judy Dake; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, Frank Van Hout and Celestia (Timm) Dake; his stepfather, James Dake; his brother James Van Hout; his sister-in-law, Charlene Van Hout; his brothers, Donald Dake, LeRoy Dake, and Larry Dake; and his brother-in-law, Dennis Biese. A beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, his presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date, and details will be shared with family and friends accordingly. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Jesse, please visit our Tree Store.