Leon Carl De Jongh

"Love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control." These words from Galatians 5 were the essence and strength of Carl De Jongh's life. On May 26, 2026 Carl quietly slipped away to join his Heavenly Father.

Growing up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Carl attended Christian elementary and high school, then continued on to Calvin University. After graduating in three years, he enrolled in the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, pursuing his advanced study of Endodontics. After serving two years in the Navy, stationed in Georgia, he returned to finish at U of M before moving to Manatee county where Dr. De Jongh became the first endodontist. Carl loved his practice for over 50 years, earning the love and respect of patients and fellow professionals. He and his wife Pat grew their beautiful family to four busy boys, loving life on the water in Florida and snow skiing in the Rockies. Carl's life was always grounded in his strong faith, believing and living in it every day. After Pat's long, courageous battle with cancer and her passing, Carl found love again and married Veda in 2004, adding three more grown children to his beloved family. Together, Carl and Veda's lives over the next twenty-two years joyfully exploded with twenty-two beautiful grandchildren.

Carl's life was marked by his devotion to God, his commitment to his family, and his service to others. His kindness, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith touched all who knew him.

A joyful Celebration of Life and Thanksgiving will be held Monday, June 1, at 1:30pm, at First United Methodist Church of Palmetto, followed by a reception at the Bradenton Yacht Club, 3:00-5:00. Please come join the family to celebrate "the goodest man ever," a beautiful life.

Donations can be given to Tidewell Hospice.org or, give.michaeljfox.org