Ekke P. De Vries

Ekke P. de Vries, 93, of Bethlehem passed away on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Fellowship Manor in Whitehall. Born on September 25, 1929 in Leeuwarden, The Netherlands he was the son of the late Popke and Greite (Kroes) de Vries. He was the loving husband of the late Shirley S. (Visser) de Vries.

Growing up in The Netherlands, Ekke worked alongside his dad as a milkman and after arriving in the United States in 1956, he worked as a wallpaper hanger and painter both for his own business and the Bethlehem Steel. He was a self-taught craftsman and woodworker. He enjoyed building fine furniture for family and friends and always kept his house and property pristine. Sailing, especially at Lake Nockamixon, also brought Ekke great joy and relaxation. Ekke enjoyed visits from his family and always cherished his time spent with them.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Ina Springer (Bob), Carla Rowland (Jim), Paul de Vries (Linda) and Robert de Vries and grandchildren, Ryan, Courtney and Jordan Nechita. Ekke was predeceased by his sister, Suze Visser.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, October 21, 2023 from 9:30-10 a.m. at Grace Church Bethlehem, 4301 Hecktown, Rd. Bethlehem, PA 18020. A service of remembrance will follow at 10 a.m. in the Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fellowship Manor 3000 Fellowship Dr. Whitehall, PA 18052.