Ellsworth “EJ” John Caljouw, 95, of Oostburg, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Pine Haven Christian Communities – Oostburg.
EJ was born to Jacob and Esther (TerMaat) Caljouw on March 24, 1931. He graduated from Oostburg High School.
EJ served his country in the US Army during the Korean War from 1952-1954. On May 8, 1971, he was united in marriage to Betty Navarro in Chicago.
EJ graduated from the University of Denver with a major in accounting. Upon graduation, he worked as an auditor in the Chicago Regional Office of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). EJ was appointed Regional Inspector General for HUD’s Kansas City’s Regional Office in 1975 and he retired in 1986.
EJ was a member of First Reformed Church in Oostburg. He was also a member of the American Legion, Institute of Internal Auditors, and AMVETS, serving as Commander of AMVET Post 97 in Oak Park, IL. EJ served as a board member and president of the Homes Association, where he and Betty lived for 25 years in Overland Park, KS. He was an avid golfer and belonged to several golf leagues. EJ enjoyed traveling, watching sports, and playing cards.
EJ is survived by his brother-in-law, Russ Lilyquist; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; parents; sisters: Beatrice (Gordon) Wilterdink, Marilyn (Gene) Charles, Carolyn (Burt) Ver Straate, and Judy Lilyquist.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate EJ’s life at Wenig Funeral Home in Oostburg on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 11:00am. A livestream of the service can be found by visiting EJ’s obituary page at wenigfh.com. Visitation will take place from 9:30am until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated in EJ’s name to Pine Haven Christian Communities or Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice.
Wenig Funeral Home in Oostburg is honored to serve the Caljouw family. Please visit wenigfh.com for more information.
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