Peter John Konyn

Peter John Konyn, 89, of Durham, California passed away quietly in his sleep on Friday, March 11, 2016. He was born August 29, 1926 in Holland to Adam and Cornelia Konyn. He immigrated to California in 1948 after attending Rijkslandbouwwinterschool (Rich Agriculture Winter School) where he received a degree in Agriculture. He returned to Holland in 1951 to marry his true love, Alice Catherine Stoop, married for 56 years. As a young married man he worked various jobs, until he found his passion, growing almonds. Together they farmed almonds and walnuts for almost 70 years. Because of his hard work ethic he became a very successful farmer. They traveled very extensively to Europe, Israel, Canada, Australia, and much of the United States. Watching stormy ocean waves was a favorite pastime, taking many trips to Fort Bragg. He arranged many family gatherings near the ocean, Sea Ranch, Fort Bragg, Pismo Beach, and Monterey. His hobbies included wood working, golf, walking by Butte Creek, and sports, especially watching the San Francisco 49ers and soccer. Peter was an active member of the St. James Catholic Church. Peter was preceded in death by his wife, Alice and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Konyn. He was the beloved father of four children, Lea (Dave) Reed of Fair Oaks, Alice (Frank) Whitman of Riverside, John (Margot) Konyn, and Jake Konyn of Durham; sister-in-law Mary (Neal) Rotterveel of Woodland; 13 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He had a full life with a loving family, almond orchards and traveling. A Mass and Christian burial will be held Friday, March 18, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. at St. James Catholic Church in Durham. Condolences may be made to www.brusiefh.com.