Prime Minister Mike Eman led a wreath-laying ceremony on Thursday evening at Santana di Zeewijk to honor the memory of Jacobo “Coco” Winterdal, marking the anniversary of his passing.
The ceremony brought together family members and friends who gathered to pay tribute to Winterdal’s life and his contributions to the community. During his lifetime, Jacobo Winterdal distinguished himself as a dedicated worker and a person with a strong sense of commitment. He began his career at Telefon Dienst (now SETAR N.V.) at a young age and continued to serve for decades with dedication and integrity.
In the difficult years for the AVP party, Jacobo Winterdal stood firmly as a party candidate. In 1975, he participated alongside Rudy Frank, and in 1977 with Henny Eman, demonstrating his continued commitment to the political movement. His political involvement spanned formative periods in Aruba’s party politics, shaping the landscape during pivotal moments in the island’s development.
Following his retirement from public service, Winterdal dedicated his time to his family and personal activities, reflecting on values of family unity and simplicity. Those who knew him remember him not only for his professional contributions but also for the personal warmth and guidance he provided to those around him.
Prime Minister Mike Eman indicated that the ceremony represents a moment of reflection and appreciation, where participants would recall not only Winterdal’s personal legacy but also the values he represented throughout his life. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining the memory of citizens who have contributed to the development of society, recognizing that each individual’s personal history forms part of the collective history of the nation.
Winterdal’s career trajectory from civil servant to political candidate exemplified the tradition of public service in Aruba. His work at Telefon Dienst contributed to the development of Aruba’s telecommunications infrastructure during critical expansion periods. This technical foundation in public service later informed his political engagement, where he sought to bring practical governance experience to party leadership.
The wreath-laying ceremony continues the tradition of honoring Aruba’s public servants and community leaders who have shaped the island’s institutions and values. Such commemorations serve as reminders of the foundation upon which contemporary Aruba continues to build, connecting current generations with the contributions of those who served before them.
Santana di Zeewijk, the location of Thursday’s ceremony, holds significance as a historical site in Aruba’s cultural and community landscape. The choice of this location for Winterdal’s commemoration reflects the deep connection between public service figures and the communities they serve throughout their careers.
Attendees at the ceremony shared personal memories of Winterdal’s character and his approach to both work and life. His commitment to family values and community service left lasting impressions on colleagues, friends, and political associates who worked alongside him during his decades of public engagement.
