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BORN
1935
DIED
2023
Jan Halsema Obituary
June 25, 1935 - October 24, 2023
Jan Pieter Halsema, Sr. took his last breath listening to the last note of one of his recordings. Jan was born in Haarlem, Holland to composer and organist, Pieter Wilhelm Hendrik & Hester Emilia Halsema. He and his three sisters grew up during Nazi occupied Holland, surviving difficult experiences which, he chronicled in his memoir "The Warmth of Chocolate".
Jan developed a passion for music at an early age and studied music at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. After discovering the magic of Jazz, he joined the Ted Easton Band touring Europe before taking residency in San Antonio, TX where he played along the Riverwalk clubs. Although he played multiple instruments, the saxophone was his favorite. Jan recorded several albums and continued playing until his last few weeks of life.
Jan is survived in the Netherlands by his 3 sisters, Wilhelmina, Anna Maria, Emilia Halsema, his half-brother Bas and half-sister Claartje, numerous nieces, and nephews and in the USA by four children Lou Cinda Pohler, Jenny Baker-Sargent, Andy Baker, Jan P Halsema Jr., 5 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Through his music and his family, his legacy lives on.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jan Halsema
Peabody
January 28, 2024
Just found out today about your passing brother but I wanted to leave you a note, not sure why you took the time to talk with a rookie out of high school about music & life but I never forgot your act of kindness. You played like very few, God bless you, rest in peace, Peabody
Ernie Durawa
November 19, 2023
Jan was a mentor and great jazz musician.We had many jams together. I´m heartbroken .
Jon Johansen
November 5, 2023
So sorry to hear this. Condolences to all of his family. Jan and I had many conversations over the last many years. Some in Dutch, his was very good, mine was very rusty, all about his time in Nederland during the war. Always enjoyed his playing when he would come into the store or I would bump into him on the Riverwalk. I shall miss him.
Dag Jan!
Jon Johansen
Bob and Ann Black
November 2, 2023
We thought alot of Jan. Jan and my hubby, Bob Black played music together at Capparelli's Italian Restaurant and Julian's Italian Restaurant. Bob would visit Jan at his house and played guitar as Jan played his Alto Saxophone and they would play for hours.
Margaret, you and Jan's children will be in our prayers. Praying for comfort and peace as you grieve your loss.
Jan Bruder
November 2, 2023
I am so sorry for your lost. Peace be with his soul and with you. His music will live on.
This picture is from 2009. His music was perfect for our Mardi Gras Party
Martin
November 1, 2023
My condolences to all the family. Our thoughts are with you in these difficult times.
Theresa Lujan
October 31, 2023
Our deepest condolences. Love Theresa and Marcus.
Fiona
October 31, 2023
Condolences to friends and family of Jan. You and your beautiful music will be missed.
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