Hugo was born in the city of Rosenburg in the Netherlands on February 17, 1940. He and his
parents and brothers survived the occupation of the Netherlands by Nazi Germany and
emigrated to the United States in January of 1948. They took a train across the USA and ended
up in southern California where Hugo’s dad worked for his brother. They eventually moved
north to the Modesto area and after moving to several different dairies ended up settling in
Escalon in 1956. He worked for the dairy, often missing school to do so. His work ethics was
ingrained early, and he always worked hard.
He met Shirley Fredriks in 1959 on a blind date. They were married on the third of November in
1961. In December of 1963 Rick was born and Ken followed in October of 1967. He enjoyed
working, waterskiing, snow skiing, camping, fishing, flying, packing into the back country, riding
motorcycles in the hills, and spending time with friends and family. His work ethic and love of
doing all these things were passed on to his sons.
Hugo showed his faith in his willingness to drop everything to help somebody. Many people
were touched by his servant nature.
He was taken from this earth on January 19, 2022. He died as he lived, working till the last.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years Shirley, his sons Rick (Lori, Caleb, Wyatt), Ken, (Michelle
Ben and his wife Abby and Rebekah). He is also survived by his brothers, Leo (Margaret) Marion
(Avis), and Harold (Wilma). Sisters Rita (Arlo) and Sandy (Jake) He was preceded in death by his
Parents Marion and Lena, and brother Arie.
His passing leaves a hole in this world that will be very hard to fill.