Jacob De Raadt

Jacob De Raadt was born in Escondido, CA on December 12, 1961, to Arie and Gre De Raadt. He was one of six children: Trudy Vander Luit (Leen-Wim), Cobie Tucker, Willy Vander Woude, Nellie Bem and John De Raadt (Joanne). The day he was born was a memorable day for his family, as he was the first boy born after 4 sisters. 

Jake had the love of cows and was always by his Dad's side on the dairy. He shared his love of cows - the more unusual, the better, with his mom. Attending and showing animals at the Del Mar Fair was an annual event that he loved and had many of his nephews and nieces involved as well. He continued this tradition with Jacque and the kids, as well as with Janie later on in life.

He ran Eden Vale Dairy, in Escondido, CA after his dad passed.  He married Jacque Peterson in 1992 and raised 4 children Katrina Waardenburg(Ryan)  Eileen Martinho (John),  Arie De Raadt (Grace), and Josh McCarter. As a family they moved to Lemoore, CA in 1999 where they started a dairy and spent many wonderful years. He instilled a work ethic in his kids early on, always including them with responsibilities around the dairy, which his kids look back on with fondness.

Jake was always very involved at Hanford Christian, as well as his church, serving as an elder at Trinity URC. He also was involved with Kings DHIA, California DHIA, DHIA West, American Jersey Cattle Association, US Holstein Association, Western United Dairymen, Red and White Association, Lineback Association, Tulare Union FFA Boosters, Tulare Union Swim Team Boosters, Tulare Union Waterpolo Boosters, Cal Poly Parent Association. He was a mentor to many helping them with their 4H or FFA projects in San Diego County and continued that even after he moved away.  He was always willing to share his animals with others!

Jake married his loving wife Janie Sustaita in 2017, and gained 3 more children Anissa Borges, Nico and Mathew Andrade. You could always find Jake ringside or pool side cheering on Anissa at her events.  Jake and Nico enjoyed attending church and going out for breakfast. together.  Jake was also a host father to Damelya Amanova, Yaroslava Pohorielova along with many other students that Jake enjoyed learning about their home countries.  Everyone was always welcome for a meal, watch jeopardy and a little healthy competition of family games.   

He continued in the dairy business until 2021, when he sold his cows, and began working with Native Microbials in 2022. He was excited about this new venture in his life. 

Jake was always a people person and loved to chat with anyone and everyone. He touched so many people’s lives and his strong love for the Lord was always evident. He will be so deeply missed.

Jake is also survived by his grandchildren Cora and Ellie Waardenburg, Drew and Mia Martinho.  Jake was excited to welcome his first grandchild from Arie and Grace this spring. 

Jake is predeceased by his mother and father, his brother-in-law William Vander Woude, his brother-in-law Ron Bem, brother-in-law Greg Tucker, and son Matthew Andrade, all of whom he loved dearly. Jake never got to meet Janie's son Robby Andrade who passed away before Jake had met Janie, but we are all sure they are comparing notes right now. 

A Rosary for Jake will be held on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 5pm at Whitehurst McNamara Funeral Home, 100 W. Bush St., Hanford, CA 93230.  Funeral Services will take place on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 11am at Hanford Christian Reformed Church, 2175 Leoni Dr., Hanford CA.  Donations in Jake’s memory can be made to Amazing Grace Ministries, 1030 N. Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93701.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jacob De Raadt, please visit our floral store.