James Van Splunder

James Van Splunder, 98, originally of Holland, NY passed away, Tuesday, February 23, 2021.

James was the beloved husband for  71 years to the late Ruth (Lowe)  Van Splunder; A devoted father to five;  Sandra (Donald) Henry, Deborah (John) Dresser, Timothy (Amy) Van Splunder, Mary Jo (Richard) Grubenhoff and the late James R. (Maria) Van Splunder; grandfather to 10; and great grandfather to 14;  James is also survived by a sister Marie (Richard) Wiedemann; An Uncle to many nieces and nephews, and friend to all . He affectionately was known as the “Mayor of Holland” for all his involvement , activities and dedication to the town and community.    James was predeceased by five siblings,  Lenard (Emma) Van Splunder, Janet (Duane) Abbey, Cornelius (Elizabeth) Van Splunder, Elizabeth (Clifford) Hill, and Ruby Becker.         

Born in Westfield NY, James was a son of the late Morris and Jobina Van Splunder He  graduated from Holland High School in 1941 and upon graduation,  entered the Merchant Marines where he proudly served his country during WWII.  Jim sailed on both Liberty and Victory Ships as an Ordinary Seaman and 1^st Class Able Body Seaman.  After the completion of his tour of duty in August of 1945, he returned to Holland and married Ruth Lowe. They began construction on their family home in 1948 and resided there until Ruth’s death in 2018.  Jim worked for EW Noblett, an electrical contractor, and Buffalo Electric.  Most notably, he was involved in wiring the buildings and grounds of the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics.  Jim is a long-standing member of the IBEW local union. 

Jim took tremendous pride in his community and leaves a legacy as an ardent volunteer.  He was a constant presence as a member of many clubs and committees where he often held leadership positions.  He’s been an active member with the Kiwanis club for over 60 years.   A dyed-in-the-wool patriot, he joined the American Legion in 1989, when the Merchant Marines were officially recognized for their crucial role in WWII.  He was also an important member of town beautification committee and Boy’s and Girls club, earning him volunteer of the year accolades from his town. Many will remember Jim for his contributions to the Holland Tulip Festival where he was an annual fixture wearing the authentic Dutch costume of his ancestors in nearly every parade since 1955.  Additionally, during the holiday season, you would often see him and his wife Ruth dressed as Santa and Mrs Claus bringing joy to the many young children in the community.  In his later years, Jim loved to visit schools to give presentations on the greatest generation.

Jim was an avid sports enthusiast and played Legion baseball and served as 1^st chairman of the town recreation committee.  He was a constant presence at many high school sporting events where his booming voice could be heard by all. His dedication to family, community, and patriotism are an inspiration to us all.

Calling hours will be held, Friday, March 19th from 3 pm to 7 pm in the  Comfort Funeral Home, 6469 Olean Road, South Wales.  His Funeral service at will be held Saturday, March 20th at 11:00 am in the Holland United Methodist Church,  Partridge Road, Holland.  Burial with Military honors will follow in Holland Cemetery. The family encourages memorials be made to either the, American Legion - Frank H. Brink Post 607, Legion Drive, PO Box 444, Holland, NY 14080 or the Kiwanis Club of Holland, P.O. Box 297, Holland, NY 14080.:  Condolences can be left at www.COMFORTFUNERALHOME.com, Live streaming will be available at www.mercadantefuneral.com/liveservices beginning at 11 am and again at the cemetery service.   The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St Worcester Mass is assisting the family with arrangements.