Milt's story began November 15, 1921 when he was born to Andrew and Winnie VanderYacht in Lynden, WA, where he grew up. He graduated from Lynden High School after which he attended Western Washington State College. His formal education was interrupted by WWII. Milt immediately enlisted in the Navy and served as a baker third class from 1941-1945 in the Pacific Theater. Milt's first post-navy job was at the City Market in Lynden. That experience prompted him to open his own business. So he bought the Meridian Service, a combination gas station and grocery store on the corner of the Guide Meridian and Tromp Rd. (Front Street) in 1948. This, he operated from 1948-1956. The family living quarters were attached to the store and many times after hours someone would be knocking on the door in need of food or milk. In 1963, Milt converted an existing building into the new Milt's Market on the Guide Meridian where Lynden Lube is now located. He was proud and happy to serve the people of Lynden and surrounding communities and enjoyed being able to meet their needs. He was a fun-loving, generous person who enjoyed helping people. Milt's last business endeavor began in 1976 when he decided to open a pizza restaurant. Many of you know the Pizza Place served much more than just Pizza. Milt decided that the perfect location would be at the old Market, located at the Guide Meridian and Tromp Rd. Milt liked to create new hamburgers or sandwiches and was known for giving the customers a lot for their money. He appreciated the community support as the restaurant evolved over the next 23 years. Milt was definitely a "people person" who always felt and seemed younger than his years. He treated everyone equally with respect and kindness, looking always for the positive in people. He left his family a legacy of rich memories. Now, we the second, third and fourth generations of Milt's Pizza Place hope to continue Milt's tradition of a fun place to meet family and friends and enjoy great food. Our family hopes your family enjoys it as much as we do! Thanks for your Support ! Lynn, Linda, Chad, Lindsay, Roger, Kristy, Jordan, Jacob, Faith, Laurel and Parker
