John Abel DeWit

John A. DeWit, of Carmel, California, passed away peacefully on Thursday May 16th, 2013. John was born on June 23rd, 1928 in Asuncion, Paraguay, to parents John Eelco and Gilke Westra. He also had one sister, their daughter Ina Miltenburg who passed away a few years before John. After completing high school in Paraguay he moved to Southern California where he graduated from UCLA in 1952. Shortly after this he secured a job at Home Savings and Loan Association. In 1964 he married a beautiful young woman from Kitzingen Germany, who captured his heart. This coming November 21st would mark their 49th wedding anniversary. With their only daughter the young couple found a home in the Monterey area in 1976. Immediately wooed by the beauty of the Peninsula he never wanted to move again. He was more than content with his little piece of paradise along the banks of the Carmel River. After working over thirty years with Home Savings-where it was said he was a fair supervisor and wonderful mentor-he retired in 1991. Never one to be lethargic he found himself a volunteer opportunity with Meals on Wheels where he proceeded to serve for 16 years. He delivered more than meals; he delivered honest kindness and usually exchanged a joke and a laugh before he felt his job was complete. A long time lover of latin-style music and Spanish female vocals, as well as Big Band era tunes, he also was an aficionado of crime-drama both in literature and film.

He is survived by his dedicated wife Sabina Dewit, daughter Kim DeWit-Detamore, son-in-law Brad Detamore, brother-in-law Hans Korfin, and sister-in-law Kathleen Jeckot. He is also survived by five adult nieces and nephews and their families, which includes eight grandchildren. His ashes will be dispersed privately by his immediate family at a later date. He was always fond of the yearly trek -for over 30 years!- to the High Sierras so this is one option that he would be fond of. At the request of the deceased no funeral or memorial services will be held. However, a simple Celebration of his Life will be held on Tuesday, May 28th, from 5 to 7 pm at the Carmel River State Beach at the intersection of Carmelo and Scenic. Please come for a glass of wine and light appetizers while taking in one of his favorite views looking to the west out Carmel Valley from the lagoon, or out across the water towards Point Lobos.

Also, we know there are many ads on this website. Please, at the request of John and the immediate family, no gifts of condolence are necessary. Only the gift of your presence on Tuesday if you can make it, or please do sign the guest book below.