And ultimately, the giving of his life.
If you ever ran into Nokesville dad Thomas S. Vander Woude, chances are you would also see his son Joseph. Whether Vander Woude was volunteering at church, coaching basketball or working on his farm, Joseph was often right there with him, pitching in with a smile, friends and neighbors said yesterday.
When Joseph, 20, who has Down syndrome, fell into a septic tank Monday in his back yard, Vander Woude jumped in after him. He saved him. And he died where he spent so much time living: at his son’s side.
“That’s how he lived,” Vander Woude’s daughter-in-law and neighbor, Maryan Vander Woude, said yesterday. “He lived sacrificing his life, everything, for his family.”
I’ve met men like Mr. Vander Woude. You recognize them almost instantly. They carry themselves different. Their demeanor is different. We are fortunate that they walk among us quietly and lead us by their example. And give us all something to aspire to.
What a horrible way to go. What a great man.
Sounds like his son is still in dire danger.. how sad it all is.
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