[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 138 (Thursday, September 24, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1347]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING PETER VAN KLEEF

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 24, 2015

  Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Peter Van 
Kleef. Known by many in the Bay Area as the owner of Cafe Van Kleef, 
located on Telegraph Avenue in Oakland's Uptown neighborhood, Peter has 
left an undeniable mark on the city of Oakland as a trailblazer in the 
resurgence of Oakland's downtown area. With his passing on September 8, 
2015, we honor his life's work and lasting legacy.
  The Van Kleef family immigrated to Oakland in 1956 from Rotterdam, 
Holland. A world traveler, Peter spent many years in countries such as 
France, Morocco, and Thailand. He also spent a few years teaching 
English in Japan. When he returned to California after his time 
overseas, Peter opened up the Rio Theatre in Rodeo, CA. He returned to 
Oakland in the early 2000's to open Cafe Van Kleef. This successful 
venture led many to call Peter a pioneer as he opened his cafe in 
Oakland's Uptown neighborhood despite many who doubted about the area's 
potential. Cafe Van Kleef has since become a captivating social hub in 
the downtown Oakland community.
  Peter was known by his patrons and friends as a man with a story to 
tell, as much of the artwork he displayed at his establishment came 
partnered with a riveting account of its journey to Cafe Van Kleef. His 
innovative and welcoming spirit led him to make rooted friendships in 
Oakland and the greater San Francisco Bay Area.
  Peter was an adventurous spirit and pioneer businessman, but above 
all, he was a loving husband, brother and uncle. He is survived by his 
wife Cindy Reeves, his siblings Ron, Gerda, Marja, and Florence, and 
five nieces and nephews.
  Peter will forever be remembered as an Uptown Oakland trailblazer, an 
art enthusiast, a world traveler and a man with many beautiful 
experiences to share.
  Today, California's 13th Congressional District salutes the life of 
an outstanding individual and pioneer, Peter Van Kleef. His 
contributions have truly impacted the Oakland business community as 
well as the lives of his family, friends, and patrons. I join all of 
Mr. Van Kleef's loved ones in celebrating his incredible 
accomplishments and offer my most sincere condolences.

                          ____________________