John D. Zuidema Sr, 96, passed away peacefully in the arms of his beloved wife, Doris R. Dooley, on June 30, 2021. Born April 7, 1925, John was a loving and devoted husband for 71 years, brother, uncle, father of 5 children, and Pop pops to 9 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.Originally from Midland Park, NJ, son to David Zuidema Sr and Fannie Englishman, of the Netherlands and stepson to Sadie Nauta Zuidema.John married Doris on Valentine's Day, 1950. The two resided in Oakland, NJ, for 19 years before settling in Ocean Grove, NJ.John, also known as the meticulous stonemason, lived his passion. A precise, yet artful mason, John marked countless sites throughout Bergen, Monmouth, and Ocean counties, with his craftsmanship. He further lent his expertise in historic preservation to many projects in Williamsburg, Va. Locally, John contributed to the restoration of Ocean Grove's Beersheba Well and the Auditorium Square Park time capsule. He reluctantly laid his trowel to rest at the age of 88.John attended Broadway Baptist Church, Paterson, NJ and St Paul's Methodist Church in Ocean Grove for many years. It Is Well With My Soul a favored hymn.His desires were simple, nothing brought him more joy than his family, friends, pets, and a Heineken on a hot day. He knew no strangers, was blessed with lifelong friendships and mentored many young men teaching them his trade the right way sprinkled with a daily dose of the old man, John advice.He will be remembered for the loving gentlemen he always was, the twinkle in his beautiful blue eyes,his honesty, humor, enduring faith, thoughtfulness, work ethic , listening ear and kindness to all. Lastly, hisbest and frequently recited words to live by were hold family and friends tight and remember to be happy.Survived byWife: Doris R. Zuidema, Children: Linda Kopp (Robert Kopp predeceased), John Zuidema Jr. (Carolyn Wagner), Nancy Martin (Gary Martin), Douglas Zuidema, Kristen Oneidas (Glenn Oneidas), Grandchildren: Robert Kopp, Melissa D'Alessio (David D'Alessio), John III, Cameron and Christopher Zuidema, Tess and Caroline Martin, Ryan and Camryn Oneidas .Great Grandchildren: Estella and Noah D'Alessio, Tahlin and Tyler SchwartzBrother: David J. Zuidema Jr and wife, Eleanor.Remembrances may be made thru donations to the Monmouth County, NJ SPCA.The family is immensely grateful to the wonderful staff at Manor by the Sea in Ocean Grove for their tender and compassionate care provided to him in his last days.A private family graveside service to be held at Valleau Cemetary, Ridgewood, NJ.A Memorial Service and Celebration Of Life will be announced at a later date.