Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Willem "Bill" Vander Laan.

Bill was born to Martin and Tina (Jongsma) in Joure, Friesland, The Netherlands. Bill lived on a farm alongside his three older brothers and two sisters. When Bill was nine years old the family travelled on a freighter to San Pedro, California. After three months, the family moved to Gothenburg, NY where the winters proved harsh. The boys decided to move back to sunny California.

At the age of 11 Bill became self-employed raising chickens and selling eggs. After highschool, he began milking cows for his dad and at 29 he took over the family dairy.

In 1965 Bill married his wife Katie Klazina (Koffeman) and they enjoyed 60 years together eventually moving to Everson, WA in 1983 where they became members of Nooksack Valley Reformed Church.

Bill was known for his strong personality and lived his life guided by his own principles. He could be outspoken and blunt but he had a heart of gold.

Bill passed surrounded by his wife and family that he loved dearly. He is preceded in death by his son Mark, parents Martin and Tina, brothers Ralph, Martin, Hank, and sisters Alice and Gaya.

Bill leaves behind his wife Katie, children Ryan, Heidi and her husband Greg, and granddaughters Abrielle, Arika, and Emily.

We will be having an open house in honor of Bill on September 5, 2026 from 2-4 pm at Glen Echo in Everson, WA.

Special thanks to Whatcom Hospice for comforting Bill in the final stages of his life.