May 10, 2024 Pieter J C Vedder's Memorial Service

 On exactly the day that WWII started in The Netherlands—May 10 of 1945—we held a meaningful Memorial Service for my Pieter.

Most has been chosen by Pieter himself and got listed in his Last Will as such.

Shortly before the service started...

Fresh white fragrant stock got delivered as they were Pieter's favorite flower.

He told me of growing them with his Dad in the greenhouse for use at the annual Sacraments Procession. 

I've used the fine silk batik tablecloths, gift from Indonesia in 2004.

Center cloth covers the cremated remains.

Turned out they fit perfectly with the chairs in the loft and with the carpet.

Indonesia meant so much for both of us so this was Perfect!

Left photo shows brother Toon, me and Pieter in Saint Augustine, Florida.

Toon's daughter Myriam was here with me and helping me set up everything...

Myriam was Pieter's only Goddaughter!

Christy's from East Dublin did such an excellent job in arranging these white stock or Matthiola incana inside a white vase.

Pieter J.C. Vedder

April 29, 1929 – April 30, 2024

Don't forget to turn on CC = Closed Captions!
Pieter's Requiem Choice
Pieter had requested in his Last Will specific music to be played at his Memorial Service.That also included a request of participation from my former chancel choir music director, Michael Dwain Little and our former Pastor Keith Goodlett.Catering a full luncheon would be done by Roy Grenade.The usual technician handling the two big video cameras and the sound board with different microphones to be turned on during Michael Dwain Little's organ play and chanting... was not present during the Memorial Service.We can never go back and do it over again and it sure was painful! We had it so well planned, set up and worked out. Oh, the book for registering names was not at the entrance of the Church but on a side table in the fellowship hall where the lunch was served.She never used the cameras the way she was supposed to do. Only showing the front pews on the right side of the Church...But after cutting out the spots without image or sound, I got this.Dear long–time friend of both of us, Gil Gillis, who used to run the local TV station agreed to use the photos that I'd prepared for showing. That too was NOT done, only a few during the luncheon.Pieter's favorite piece of music Adagio (Albinoni) that strikes a chord...Also, Mozart's Lacrimosa (Tearful) was one of Pieter's favorites and he himself sang often DIES IRAE A Capella with some other boys from the impressive 100–member choir in Groessen, The Netherlands.It just is SAD, that some insignificant people abused their power for denying my very humble, but larger than life Pieter, his final wishes.Knowing that from Heaven, Pieter still is pleased with Keith Goodlett and Michael Dwain Little's efforts to adhere to his Last Will.Kathy Jones as soprano, as requested by Pieter.Also dear friend Mary Louise Goodie McRae added to that in a touching way.

Mozart's Lacrimosa (Tearful) was not audible...

It has such a depth of human emotions and thus transcends all languages and cultures!

See link below post.

I Believe, Mark A Miller

I believe in the sun, I believe in the sun, even when, even when it's not shining.

I believe in love, even when, even when I don't feel it.

I believe in God, I believe in God, even when, even when God is silent.

Indeed, the final Musical Moment – Hungarian Dance #4, Johannes Brams very much reflected the way we both lived...

Music is the shorthand of emotion~Leo Tolstoy quote

Thank you

Words cannot express how grateful our family is for your generous support, encouraging words, and thoughts and prayers. Your kindness will always be remembered with deep gratitude.

The Family of 

Pieter J.C. Vedder

If you would like to provide a memorial donation,

checks can be made out to Mariette Vedder for 

the Leprosy Project in Indonesia which was near to his heart.

Related links:Lovely White Stock & Baby's Breath from Trader Joe's | previous post by meMozart – Lacrimosa | YouTube videoGregorian Chant : Dies Irae (Lyric Video) | YouTube video as the microphone was OFF when Michael Dwain Little played it on the organ and chanted it...I Believe SATB – Mark Miller – CGA1310 | YouTube video and SATB = Soprano, Alto, Tenor, BassMy Pieter went to Heaven on April 30 | previous post by me and THANKS for your replies!!!Our Final Easter Together | Previous post with link to Father Seán Coyle from Dublin, IrelandHusband Pieter was the 3rd VEDDER Ensign Bearer in Groessen, The Netherlands | This shows another image of Pieter in his historic uniform, tailor made for him in Amsterdam. Gil Gillis found it the most impressive photo...Pieter a Former Motorcycle Guy ALWAYS Remained one at Heart! | previous post by me1958 Tragedy for Pieter's Mushroom Friends in Zichen-Zussen-Bolder in Belgium | United Again!

Feeling carried by LOVE from around the world and countless private messages 💞

Since Pieter's passing I have regained 2 kg or 4.4 pounds — weighing now 45.3 kg or 99.8 pounds.

In the end of March I was 45.9 kg or 101 pounds

A True Love Story NEVER ENDS | previous post by me...

Written Compliments and Book Reviews for my Pieter — II

Reading such compliments and/or book reviews is uplifting!

Great book! My admiration for your work.

Truly a fantastic guide to growing mushrooms.

Best book on mushroom growing

Hi Pieter 

Hope all is well with you,

Just ordered your book on Amazon & looking forward to the read. Your original was always considered the bible for mushroom growing and I often refer to it. It is a well thumbed version from early nineties. Keep things lit!

Mike

Pieter,

Stay safe and enjoy life.

Best wishes and will always be grateful for your help and advice.

Mel

Thanks for the times you came to Greenwood Mushroom farm to teach.

Pieter's reply: 

Done so with enthusiasm and love for the job!

"Your BIRTH IS BLESSING To All. 

All our Blessings for your Good Health!"

From Peru:

Mr Pieter is a hero to all those who once started this cultivation. Next to your words printed in that book, it is a huge help.

Thank you very much for everything—I am organizing and I will see how I manage to get updated to the 2020 book.

I will leave the country next month.

Thank you very much for everything.

Vocational school Horst, at the time, is that right?

My reply: Yes, I worked at the CCO for over 14 years before we immigrated together.

I remember that, we worked there regularly at the time. We were young then... time has flown by.

Nice words. You have indeed meant a lot to the mushroom industry and still do! Enjoy it and stay healthy!

Best book on mushroom growing

Congratulations on your latest addition of Modern Mushroom growing 2020. Your first addition was a great asset to the farm. Your many contributions to the mushroom industry are really appreciated.

You have watered to blossom, many who needed the most.

And now it's our turn, 

Watering of blessings,

For your GOOD HEALTH.

Pieter's reply: 

Thank you so very much; it is greatly appreciated!

I met Mr. Jans and Mr. Vedder while working at Highline Mushrooms in Canada. 

These are two very excellent teachers. I learned much about caring for mushrooms and much more about caring for people. I left the mushroom industry about two decades ago but their kind of kind leadership cannot be forgotten. 

Thanks Pieter, 

For giving us the opportunity to learn so much about mushroom growing.

In the early 80s I was one of the students of the CCO. I have learned there so much. 

Lessons which help me still today.

I'm proud and honored that I was privileged to go there.

Pieter's reply:

Have done so with lots of passion and in Dutch, German and English for the short courses and ending with only English... Most is being bundled now in our books so not all is lost!

"Pieter, thank you for transitioning the growing of mushrooms with your science but practical approach."

Pieter's reply:

Thank you and it is not about how much I know but how to transfer that knowledge in an understandable way and with lots of personal practical experience...

Guess I was born to be a teacher!

I'm glad and honored that I can count Pieter to the masters, from which I learned so much. It was not only mushroom but also for your daily life, helping me to move away from my mind's barriers.

Thank you Pieter, for all what you did for me and the Mushroom community.

Well worthy Pieter, a great addition for any of 'us'...

Pieter's reply:

Hope it will help many mushroom growers all over the world! The basics never change, even for those that grow in less modern facilities.

I'm certain it will and never a more true statement in our business Pieter that often missed. You reiterate this so well throughout all stages in your book and now great to have the 2020 edition after referencing you verbally over the years.

Mr Vedder was my teacher in 1967 – 1968. Since then I was growing mushrooms till 2 years ago. So the basic knowledge for mushroom growing was all that time with me.

Mushroom growing is a very interesting and exciting culture.

Pieter's reply:

That is great to hear from a former student, from the era before the Training Centre was officially opened on September 9, 1969. Yes, today was an anniversary... Your English also stands out!

Hope you continue to do well in whatever you do.

Oh so good to hear from you Dr. Vedder, some of my best memories of work – was working for Campbell's and growing mushrooms, and my time spent in Georgia at your operation.

I still have your book and frequently pick it up to peruse. 

Do you live near the old operation? Hope you and your family are well and if you ever make it back to PA – be sure to look me up at Golden Oaks. 

Oh yes, Bobcat – I'm pretty sure I ran into one before bounded back into the woods, when I first moved back to this area. Thank you.

If you scroll down on this blog, under labels: Mushroom Editorial Review you will find more posts with meaningful compliments!

As both of us always said:

It is not important what YOU say about YOURSELF — BUT WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT YOU...

Related link:

Written Compliments for my Pieter and Book Reviews — I | previous post by me

1978 - P.J.C. Vedder's Modern Mushroom Growing Book Published in English | previous post by me and showing ALL LANGUAGES of Pieter's book — also the Spanish version from first image...

modern mushroom growing 2020 harvesting | previous post by me

September 9, 1969 Grand Opening practical Mushroom Training Center in Horst | previous post by me about founder and principal teacher Pieter...

Visiting Castle Gardens Arcen with Friend Ellie | previous post by me telling audience where Pieter used to live

Written Compliments and Book Reviews for my Pieter — I

 It sure is nice to get some written compliments from former students and/or book reviews!

Despite all odds, you took pain to pen the guidance. Greatest Consultant, far greater in Humanity.

May GOD shower my Good deeds on you.

Both of us have no PAY MASTER

Very good Article in this Pandemic, I live by the rules which I learned at the Mushroom school CCO in Horst, Netherlands. It was the best school I ever visited, here it was where I learned not only about Mushrooms. But also how the environment where we live in works, including pests and diseases and how to deal with it.

Wanna thank you for the wise lesson you taught us there in Horst at the CCO. Also I can only recommend everybody to read your books. They are really great!

Pieter's reply: 

Thanks for your meaningful comment and indeed in whatever I've taught, I tried to do the very best to explain the matter and no–nonsense. Sure, I also am a strong believer in the natural antagonsim!

I've already read it, it's the best book in the world!!

Pieter's reply: 

Thank you! It often gets called the 'Mushroom Bible'...

Sir just now I get the copy of modern mushroom growing 2020 hope that this would be a great guide for my mushroom growing life. I will refer through this and making improvements in growing, if there is any doubts in this I will go through with you sir. 

Thank you for making this 'bundle of great experience'.

Thank you Amazon for this wonderful Bhagwad Geeta for mushroom growers

Dr Vedder is a world class mushroom grower and trainer. I was so happy to see that Amazon was able to get me this wonderful bible for mushroom growers,

Hi Mariette, I am Ravi Balraj, who was in Pond's India. We always remember your excellent training skills.

I still have my notebook where I had jotted down your valuable advices on mushroom growing. And clearing our doubts. Even to this day, those were the days I learnt the maximum on mushroom growing.

You have contributed much more than your books for the mushroom world.

We all reference your books for anything on mushroom growing & many growers will continue to do so.

You are the best teacher

I am to know that you got gift from Pond's India. Pieter, known for his practical knowledge and his wonder book, I possess.

Great love and regard for both of you.

May God bless both of you.

Please send photo of Pond's gift, I want to have a look.

My reply: In good daylight I will but we better first polish the silver...

Be patient!

Never be weak thinking that you be alone but always stick to thinking

That you alone are enough...!!

Congratulations sir.

Happy 94th birthday

Pieter Vedder sir Grand Father of mushrooms

Pieter's reply: Thank you and yes, being the Grandfather of Mushroom Growing sounds right...

I am such a big fan of yours sir that I cannot tell you.

Pieter's reply: 

Thank you and it is always good to hear that I've meant something to others. May our book still help many for making a living in mushrooms! Did it with all my heart and soul...

After Fred Atkins, Mr Vedder sir you took the mushroom industry to a greater height. 

Pieter's reply: 

Thank you and I owe a lot to Mr. Fred Atkins and I counted him among my very special friends: Fred Atkins' book Mushroom Growing To-Day helped Pieter Solve Yellow Mold & False Truffle Problem ←click link

This birthday message comes 

Deep from within my heart

For everything that you do

And all the wisdom you impart.

I'm ever so grateful

To have somebody like you

Who can educate me

As wonderfully as you do.

Happy birthday to you (2023)

Review on Good Reads:

★★★★★ Loved it, so much wealth of knowledge

Thanks for this profound book you wrote for us. It's a real enchiridion; I'll keep it with my treasure books so I can always have a quick view of questions, difficulties, or discussions. Thank you so much for the lessons which I could learn from you.

Thanks for the profound book you wrote. I'll use it as an enchiridion to skill up my knowledge. Thank you for all the lessons you taught me.

Pieter's reply:

That is the main reason why we wrote and self–published our book. To share our knowledge with others. Hoping you use our handbook often!

Hi Mr. Vedder, I would like to wish You a Merry Christmas, and thank you for all your knowledge, and sharing it by books, videos, audios, etc. 

I have been working since 2005 in mushrooms when I was at the university, and the only one book available was yours.

Since that time starting as an entrepeneur, until now as a mushroom farm owner, it has been so helpful as an engineer in mushroom production, communication with workers, organization, etc. all your help and your wife's too.

I really want to thank you for all development and knowledge in mushroom farm, for all of us, that learn everyday from you!!!

Merry Christmass!!!

Hello Mr. Vedder,

Once upon a time I had the privilege of being taught by you to become a good mushroom grower in the late 70's and early 80's. I have been working in this world for about 25 years. First 8 years as a manager of the tunnel company and then 15 years on my own mushroom farm.

So your knowledge transfer has really helped me. I would like to thank you for that and I look back on a nice period where you taught us the trade in a skillful and humorous way.

We spoke again at the Mushroom Days in Grubbenvorst after you went to the USA.

By chance I came across your name on the internet, hence this message.

Hope all is well with you?

From Limburg I greet you.

Former pupil Jan

As you say, not every farmer can invest huge capital on high–tech equipment. We need to help the farmer to have good yield with less money.

Pieter's reply:

That is so true, even nowadays and that's why I still explain the BASICS in our book! Also both of us have always done our consulting work, based on QUALITY which is market value, instead of just high yields...! A BIG mistake would be an incentive program for the managers (even consultants) based just on kilograms but not on quality, which translates into market value!

Looking forward to receiving the book I ordered.

Pieter's reply:

Hope you meanwhile received it. We were 5 days without Internet so I reply late...

Hello Mr. Vedder, I wanted to tell you that I was able to read the last book you wrote on mushroom cultivation, what a great work, every day I admire your work more.

If you scroll down on this blog, under labels: Mushroom Editorial Review you will find more posts with meaningful compliments!

As both of us always said:

It is not important what YOU say about YOURSELF — BUT WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT YOU...

Related links:

{Part XVI of Husband Pieter's Trip to East Asia - Taipei, Taiwan} | previous post by me with great complimentary letter at the end

{Part III of Husband Pieter's Trip to India - Maharaja Amarinder Singh, Patiala Punjab} | previous post by me with written letter from Maharaja

1978 - P.J.C. Vedder's Modern Mushroom Growing Book Published in English | previous post by me and showing ALL LANGUAGES of Pieter's book!

modern mushroom growing 2020 harvesting | previous post by me

1982 Sinden Award for Pieter at The Hotel Majestic, Harrogate, England | previous post by me about PRESTIGIOUS AWARD IN THE MUSHROOM INDUSTRY

September 9, 1969 Grand Opening practical Mushroom Training Center in Horst | previous post by me

SOME VIRUS FACTS AND QUESTIONS | previous post by me

Grateful to Friend Gil for Capturing Pieter's 93rd Birthday | previoius post by me about Pieter's 93rd B'day

Happy Reunion with Swiss Kuhn Family & United States Consulate for our Permanent Visa | previous post by me

Those who feel Happy with the HAPPINESS of OTHERS

 Just a short post with a great quote as moral compass...

Our Gardenia inside a creamware cachepot from Wedgwood Cream Color on Cream Color

~

Those who feel happy with the happiness of others, possess a wealth without borders.

Prof. Dr. Frans Daels

Flemish physician and politician 1882–1974

Related links:

{Gardenia Dream} | previous post by me with more photos, also from the crocheted lace table topper

{GARDENIA PASSION} | previous post by me showing also the cachepot in detail

{Gardenia by Royal Albert and our Garden Gardenias} | previous post by me

{Our Gardenias in the June Rain} | previous post by me

{Our Gardenias} | previous post by me

{My Towels with Knitted Lace} | previous post by me

{May 22 Gardenia by Royal Albert and blooming Gardenias in Baccarat vase} | previous post by me

{Floating Candles with Jasmines and Roses} | previous post by me

{The Boston Tea Company} | previous post by me

May your 4th Advent Week lead towards a REAL CHRISTMAS

Yes, the year is getting thinner and we all are preparing for Christmas 2022.

May this 4th Advent week lead us towards a REAL CHRISTMAS

Far away from the commercial holiday it has become...

 The green cotton Zweigart Aida tablecloth now with a Mason's Mandalay Chartreuse plate for the brass spiral candle holders.

May the Enchantment fill our hearts.

~

If we do not live, speak and think in the language of enchantment, including naming angels and recognizing spirits... then the soul will go out of our lives and communities, and we will wonder why nothing seems to hold together and nothing seems to have value anymore. ~Thomas Moore

 

In the back is a group of angels looking on, all from South Tyrol, Italy.

The one on the left is a ceramic one and was a gift from Italian friend Maria from Ristorante da Maria and the others are all wooden angels from Italy.

Now two sterling silver candle holders with fluted bobèches have joined the Royal Selangor pewter ones that we bought in Singapore.

Royal Selangor is established in 1885 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The silver crocheted doily has been hand made by a former Turkish neighbor in The Netherlands.

Incredible work, I would not be able to copy that!

The silver tray was handmade for us in Kotagede, near Yogyakarta in Indonesia.

Two Mason's Mandalay Chartreuse ←(click it) candle holders and two silver plated tall ones with tapers and bobèches.

Each of them also holds a Hugger Candle Snugger.

Candles are Dutch Gouda. Yes, Gouda is a city that produces fine cheeses and candles!