Adrian C. Fondse was born on November 30, 1929 in Hanford, CA. He entered into eternity February 5, 2023 in Ripon, CA.

   Adrian graduated from Ripon Christian High School. He enlisted into the Navy during the Korean War.  After boot camp, he married Ruth Nies, February 23, 1951. Adrian and Ruth spent their first years of marriage apart as he was stationed in Japan. Once Adrian was discharged from military service, he and

Ruth settled on the Fondse family farm, where they welcomed their four children.  Adrian was a farmer, San Joaquin County Supervisor, member of many organizations including VFW,

Lions, & American Legion, and an active member at Calvary Reformed Church.

   One accomplishment he was most proud of was being a part of getting New Melonies Dam approved.

Another was helping the VFW get approval for their new post location. He often said “it is the best post anywhere”.

Adrian was very close to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The grand and great-grandchildren have many fond memories of riding with grandpa on his golf cart and later his Kubota.

   The past few years Adrian would take daily rides, around the property on the Kubota, with his little dog companion, Chongo.

   Adrian is survived by his children Michele De Groot (John), Brian Fondse (Laurie), Randy Fondse (Sally) and

Lorene Wever, his seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and his sister in law, Gerry Nies.

    He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Fondse and his grandson, Alexander Wever.

   A graveside service will be held Friday, February 24, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Ripon Cemetery followed by a Memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Reformed Church, Ripon. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wounded Warrior Project or the VFW’s National Veteran Service Program. 

Mantrca (Calif.) Bulletin

Saturday, February 11, 2023