John Garry Zuidema, 56, of Langley, passed away at his home on Nov. 26, 2009.

John was born in Long Beach, Calif. on May 30, 1953, to John and Clara Rose (Rusak) Zuidema. He was raised in Lakewood, Calif. and graduated from Lakewood High School in 1971.

John was employed as an architectural assistant with several prestigious architecture firms in Southern California, helping primarily to design upscale restaurants and community centers. His pastime was spent on the computer. John relocated to Oregon, and then decided to settle in Langley in

August 2009.

John is survived by three children, Nicole, Jenny and Kevin; three sisters, Gwendolyn Clark (Don) of Long Beach, Calif., Carol Hinkle (Jerry) of Bellflower, Calif. and Cynthia Hust (Nick) of Freeland; also by 10 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Zuidema (2004), his mother, Clara Zuidema (2008) his sister, Judith Elliott (2009) and by his brother, Joel Zuidema (2003).

We remember him lovingly caring for mom in the later years of her life, which allowed us to experience a tender and gentle man.

Services will be held at a later date. Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest register at www.whidbeymemorial.com.

Arrangements are with the assistance of Whidbey Memorial Funeral and Cremation Service, Inc., Oak Harbor.