Johannes (John) Eimert de Bruin

Johannes (John) Eimert de Bruin was born June 8, 1954 in Rotterdam Netherlands. John emigrated to Connecticut USA with his parents and sister in 1961.

He passed away on May 18, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.

He was predeceased by his parents, Eimert C. de Bruin and Anna Catharina van de Schoot.

He is survived by his daughter, Larissa de Bruin Platts and her husband Garrett Platts, grandson Walker Platts and granddaughter, Addison Platts of Vermont. Daughter Carina de Bruin of Vermont. Sister Catharina (Karin) de Bruin Hegedus (Joe) of South Carolina. Nephews, Paul Hegedus (Sarah) of Vermont and Stephen Hegedus (Meredith) of California.

John graduated from Newtown Highschool in Newtown, Connecticut, graduating in 1973. Attended Waterbury technical college for law enforcement. He became a US citizen after graduation.

He and his father started DAF CLUB OF AMERICA IN THE 70s. They collected DAF automobiles and memorabilia for years. They were in contact with people all over the world. Especially in the Netherlands (where DAF was manufactured) . After his parents passed, John started the DAF Museum and Research Center based in MT Tabor, Vermont. He was an amazing mechanic with rebuilding the DAF automobiles that he collected over the years. He was always so proud to tell people about the variomatic engines in these vehicles.

He never retired because he loved to keep busy. May 2025 changed his life forever with a health diagnosis. He was a fighter and did whatever he could to keep going. A stubborn Dutchman would be an understatement. When he learned of his daughter's pregnancy, his biggest wish was to meet his granddaughter. Addison came 4 weeks early so John was able to meet and hold her before he passed two days later.

He will be missed by so many. His wish was that his ashes be distributed in the Netherlands. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.