January 21, 2020
Heerke Pieter Vantil passed away on January 21, 2020 at Chilliwack General Hospital at the age of 86. Peter was born on July 28, 1933 in Kantens, The Netherlands. Peter is survived by his wife Christine and his children John (Ann); Ralph (Audrey); Linda (Tony); Maurice (Rachel); Mike (Mirjam); Annette; Kevin (Irene) and Susan (Aron) and his 25 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
The funeral service was held on Monday January 27 at the Riverside Christian Reformed Church in Agassiz. Peter was known for his wit; his sunny disposition; his humility, his grace, his selflessness, his love for his family, and his faith in God. He was ever thankful for the care and attention he received, especially in his many visits to the hospital. We thank Dr. Hirst and the nursing staff at Chilliwack General Hospital for the excellent care that he received. Peter suffered greatly with various health challenges, but was never one to complain. Rather, he was always focused on the needs of others.
As a pioneer, Peter immigrated to Canada on his own at the age of 19 to forge a new life, in a land of great opportunity. He brightened the world of everyone he met. We mourn the passing of a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather; but rejoice that Peter has been called home to be with His Father in Heaven, to be free of pain and to enjoy eternal life. As we read in God's Word, "Blessed are those who dwell in Thy House, ever singing Thy praise" (Psalm 84:4 RSV).