Martinez Tribune The website of the Martinez Tribune.
Bill Vanderklugt was born in Noordwijkerhout, Netherlands. The son of a baker and one of 14 siblings, he immigrated to the United States in 1958 where he met and married “Bep,” his beautiful wife of 57 years. The couple became United States citizens in 1972 and lived in Lodi, Sacramento, Manteca and finally Martinez where they raised three children.
Bill worked his entire professional career in the dairy industry, milking cows, delivering door to door, having his own milk drive-ins and finally 23 years with Berkeley Farms where he became affectionately known as the “Milkman.” In retirement, Bill found great enjoyment in nature, traveling, woodworking, camping, fishing and sports. He was an avid gardener and had been featured in local publications for his spectacular garden floral displays.
He is preceded in death by his parents Johannes and Alida VanderKlugt. Siblings Riet (Joop), Coby (Frans), Jaap (Nel), Mien (Gerard), Jo, Piet, Wim, (Piet), Rina, and grandson Daniel Shapiro Jr. He is survived by his loving wife Elisabeth “Bep” VanderKlugt. Children John (Cathy), Doreen (Dan), Michael (Sheri). Grandchildren, Nicolaas, Lucas, Kaitlin, Elisabeth, Matthew, Christopher, Michaela, Robert and Nathan. Siblings and large extended family to include Jan (Riek), (Henny), Lida, Truus, Vic (Alga), Lord (Suus), (Kees & Kathleen), many nieces and nephews and in-laws.
