In Loving Memory of Cecil Jay De Lange

A Life Well-Lived

Cecil Jay (CJ) De Lange of Green Valley, Arizona, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025, at the age of 87 after a brief illness.

Born on February 12, 1938, in Harvey, Illinois, to the late Neal and Beatrice De Lange, CJ was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 63 years, Shirley Van't Haaft, and his brother, Donald Lee De Lange.

CJ spent much of his career as a plant engineer at John Deere Corporation. After retiring, he and Shirley moved to Colorado, where CJ served as a Park County Commissioner before fully retiring to Arizona.

An avid sportsman, CJ embraced retirement with passions for golf, tennis, table tennis, pickleball, hiking, and extensive world travel. He also wrote his memoirs, reflecting on the many blessings he experienced.

CJ's deep faith shaped his life. He was active in church leadership, Bible studies, and helped plant several churches, always eager to lead others closer to Christ.

CJ is survived by his brother, Robert Allen De Lange (Madalyn), his sister, Candace Stegenga-Fry (the late William Stegenga and Joseph Fry), his children, Craig De Lange, Tracy De Lange-Johnson (Ed Johnson), and Michael De Lange (Bonnie), along with nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many dear extended family members and friends.

His legacy of faith, love, and adventure will live on in all who knew him.