Johannes Zonneveld
February 24, 1937 ~ May 2, 2025
Born in:
Netherlands, Noordwijkerhout
Resided in:
Atlanta, GA
John Zonneveld
February 24, 1937 – May 2, 2025
Johannes Wilhelmus Franciscus Zonneveld, lovingly known to many as John, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, following injuries sustained in an automobile accident. His family was by his side.
Born on February 24, 1937, in Noordwijkerhout, Netherlands, John began engraving at just 15 years old as an apprentice at The Royal Silverworks in Voorschoten. His lifelong passion for the arts led him across continents—from Holland to Canada, and eventually to Atlanta, where he became one of the last remaining master hand-engravers. As the proud owner of Franciscus Silver and Pewter Gifts, John spent decades perfecting a fading craft, using traditional hand tools and old-world techniques to create heirloom-quality engravings. Every piece he crafted reflected not only his skill, but also the pride and care he poured into his work. His exceptional artistry earned him the admiration of many, with work commissioned by presidents, royalty, celebrities, and generations of Atlantans alike.
But John’s gifts extended far beyond his work. His playful sense of humor and sharp intellect brightened every room he walked into. His curiosity about the universe was boundless. Whether contemplating the cosmos or scribbling philosophy on the backs of napkins and receipts, John remained endlessly inquisitive. Always exploring, always thinking. A self-taught painter, he poured life into his oil paintings with the same devotion he brought to his engraving. John had a rare ability to see color and beauty that others often missed, and through his art, he captured that vividness—offering a glimpse into the way he saw the world.
He found fulfillment not only in his creative work but also on the soccer field—a lifelong passion he nurtured from the age of 11. Remarkably, John continued to play competitively into his late 80s and was still playing weekly games in the days leading up to his passing. Soccer and the friendships it built sustained John’s youthful spirit and remained a source of joy throughout his life.
Above all else, John cherished time with his family. His warmth, humor, and vibrant spirit enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of loving him.
John is survived by his four children: Annie (Will), Andrew (Margo), Cynthia, and Ed (Diane); his six grandchildren: Olivia, Parker, Dennis, Keenan, Thomas (Amanda), and Sarah (Garion); and three great-grandchildren: Zia, Evelyn, and Errol; as well as a wide community of friends, colleagues, and customers who admired both the man and his work.
John’s Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 5th, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on the rooftop of Fadó Irish Pub, located at 273 Buckhead Ave, Atlanta, GA 30305.
In honor of John’s vibrant spirit and signature style, we encourage all who attend to wear bright, colorful attire—just as John so often did. If you own a piece engraved by John, we warmly invite you to wear it as a tribute to his artistry.
As one customer recently shared, “Atlanta will never be the same without John.” And truly, it won’t.
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I will always remember the beautiful dance you and Annie did at her wedding. I’m grateful I got the chance to meet you and get to know you during that special weekend.
Your creativity, energy and active lifestyle will always be an inspiration to me.
Thank you for being a great dad to my best friend.
Liz xx