Calvin A. DeKnikker

Graveside service for Calvin A. DeKnnikker was Jan. 10, at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, with military honors. 
 
Cal’s three battles with cancer came to an end, Wednesday, Dec. 27. 
 
Born in Sturgis, S. D., to Albert and Marie DeKnikker, Cal moved to Esparto, California with his family in 1967. He graduated Esparto High School early to join the Navy, Class of 1975. U.S. Navy, 1974-1976, as a Boiler Tech/Fireman Apprentice aboard the USS Richard S. Edwards, based in Pearl Harbor, HI. He earned two Associate degrees from Yuba College, and studied Criminal Justice at Sacramento State. 
 
He married in 1990, started a family and a business in 1991. Upon passing his CA Landscape Contractors exam, he created Christian James Executive Services. He retired, April 2017. When asked his occupation, he'd reply, "Gods oldest occupation, landscaper, I tend the gardens".  Cal enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, canoeing, but his greatest joy was camping with his boys on Boy Scout outtings. Car camp at Bodega Bay or trekking the Pacific Coast Trail, 50 plus miles over a week period, Cal always had his camera to capture the adventures. 
 
He was active in the American Legion, Commander/Past Commander of Yolo Post 77, and East Yolo Post in W. Sacramento before it closed. Cal was given the title "Uncommon Patriot" by Yolo County Board of Supervisors in 1995 for his dedication to recognize veterans of USS Utah, bombed in Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941. A founding member of the Yolo County Veterans Coalition, he was the go-to man for raffle prize donations. Selfless work for local POW/MIA heroes who have not come home, they're not forgotten; and Past Chaplain for USS Richard S. Edwards Association. "Your best bet, hire a Vet" was his motto in life. He was proud to serve and well liked through the Veteran community. He was Assistant Scoutmaster, BSA Troops 464 and 68; each of his boys earned the rank of Eagle Scout. 
 
Cal is survived by his wife of 27 years, Christine De Knikker; sons, Christian (Moncerrat), and Jordan De Knikker; parents; brothers, Charles, Colin and Clint (Stephanie) De Knikker; sister, La Retta (Greg) Coulter; several nieces; nephews, and Christines' family. 
 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Cal's name to BSA Troop 464, c/o Jim Niehues, Scoutmaster, 16724 County Road 98B, Woodland, CA 95695.

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