Calvin Burggraaff

Calvin Burggraaff of Holland, Minnesota, 71, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on January 24, 2024. He was born on April 10, 1952, in Hull, Iowa, to Antonia and Richard Burggraaff as the youngest of his family. He was baptized in the First Reformed Church in Boyden, Iowa.  He was recently diagnosed with throat cancer, which had been in remission for 15 years and for which he was actively receiving treatment in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Calvin had a lifelong passion for farming. It was an integral part of his life from a very young age when he would help his father Richard on the farm. He delighted in sharing stories about the thrill of driving tractors and trucks as a young boy. He possessed a keen intellect and although strong-willed and stubborn at times also had a kind heart. He attended Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon, Iowa, to study Ag Business.

Calvin also enjoyed traveling and socializing. He had a nice sense of humor and a sharp wit, making it easy for him to meet new people. His favorite places to visit included Texas, Louisiana, and San Diego - anywhere warm and sunny during the cold Minnesota winters. One of his hobbies included raising bees for honey.

Calvin is survived by his sister, Ruth Bowman of Hutchinson, Minnesota; his niece, Barbara Bowman of Los Angeles, California; his nephews, Daniel Bowman of Seattle, Washington, (Julia) and Marc Demmer of Phoenix, Arizona; his grandnieces, Malina, Piper, and Riley; and grandnephew, Chase.

He is preceeded in death by his mother, Antonia Burggraaff (née Vander Schaaf); his father, Richard Burggraaff; his sister, Nelva Demmer; his brother, Richie Burggraaff; his infant brother; his niece, Pammy Demmer; and nephew, Brandon Demmer.