Our Founder

Cornelius Jan (Neal) Peters, age 94, of Hudsonville, left us for his eternal home on Saturday, November 12, 2022. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 67 years, Ann (Koning) Peters; children, Ed (Susan) Peters, Tim (Sharon) Peters, Kathy (Ken) Brock, Ernie (Maria) Peters; grandchildren, Brad (Erin) Peters, Sara (Mark) Ashbay, Amber (Ben) Behrens, Anna Peters, Kristina (Ben) Netz, Dan Peters, Jon (Julienne) Brock, David (Allie) Brock, Aaron (Alex) Brock, Erika Deemter, Matt (Kendra) Peters, Rachel (Marcus) Wondergem; 15 great grandchildren; Sister-in-law Truus Peters, brother-in-law Andy (Barb) Koning, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Neal was the first born of 6 children to Jan and Trijntje (Vaalburg) Peters in Badhoevdorp, The Netherlands. He grew up during WWII and learned much about business and relationships working with his father in their store. He immigrated to the United States in 1955 with Ann. After several jobs and businesses, in 1976 Neal achieved his dream to own his own store. Van's Dutch Store evolved into Peters Gourmet Market and continues on today. The consummate salesman, Neal loved his customers and made many friends over the years.