Rimmert Atsma

Rimmert was born in Toppenhuzen, Fryslan to Geert and Hinke Atsma(Hettinga) on December 3, 1943, the ninth of 10 children. Rimmert met Aaltsje de Jager on the Sunday town walks between Top en Twel. They only had eyes for each other and were married on November 6, 1963 in Toppenhuzen, a blessed marriage that lasted nearly 63 years. Their first daughter, Hinke, was born in 1964 before they started on their California dream. A surprisingly red-haired Hester followed in 1966. Their daughters had a few years with Mom and Dad before the sons arrived, Gordon was born in 1971 and Andrew in 1972. Rimmert's faith in our Lord Jesus Christ was shaped in his early years primarily by his mother. When he was a willful boy, she prayed with him and forgave him for his willful ways. In a time when prayers were silent around the dinner table, she shaped in him a sense of justice that caused him to stand up for those who were being bullied or taken advantage of. Church was always a part of dad's life. He was a member of Visalia Christian Reformed Church for fifty + years. He loved singing in church and was part of the church choir for many years. He knew and loved his Savior and he felt very blessed with his family and his life in America. His loud exuberant singing was heard every Sunday morning and continued in the courtyard coffee time afterwards to talk about motor home trips, golf and whatever adventures happened or were coming up. Rimmert was a strong man and he let people know it with a firm handshake. We heard lots of army stories of wrestling and of how strong he was. Music was a big part of dad's life, he could sing and play many instruments: trumpet , saxophone, harmonica, slide trombone and guitar. He would often strum the guitar and make up melodies and verses, entertaining the 13 grandkids and 20 great-grandkids. Dad was impressed by the WWII military column he witnessed going by town. This started a lifelong hobby of WWII memorabilia. He collected books, guns, vehicles and belonged to the Military Vehicle Collectors of California. He was honored to take part in Veterans Day Parades chauffeuring veterans in the Command Car or Jeep. The 'toys' were a fun part of his life, but he always knew it was just stuff and his life rested in God's hands in eternity. Dad made good friends wherever he lived, and was a social, fun loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. Dad and mom had many cherished memories of vacations with friends, family days at Angiola Dairy and celebrations in Fryslan. His zest for life, lively stories, comforting bear hugs and musical gifts will be missed. He was eager to be at rest and entered the arms of his Savior on August 15, 2026. He is survived by his wife, the love of his life, Aaltsje and children Hinke and Gerrit de Jong, Nathan(Brigit), Rimmert(Maegen), Luke, Paul(Elizabeth), Stewart(Christine). Hester and Arnel Koster, Alaine(Karl)den Dulk, Darren and Nelly. Gordon and Robin Atsma, Carson and Bryn. Andrew and Kristi Atsma, Brendon(Olivia), Karina(Jonas) Huckabay and Brian along with 20 great-grandchildren. Also survived by four siblings, his sisters Lieske and Hinke, brothers Gerben and Ruurd, and many nephews and nieces. Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Monday, August 24th, 2026 at Visalia Christian Reformed Church, 1030 S Linwood St, Visalia. Graveside services will be held 9:30 AM Monday, August 24th, 2026 at North Tulare Public Cemetery, 4572 North J. St., Tulare. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Rimmert Atsma

December 3, 1943 - August 15, 2026