Jack Kouwenhoven

August 15, 1929 - September 29, 2019
Jack passed away peacefully, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was predeceased by his parents, Dick and Marie, siblings Pete, Jake, Jane and Aggie and his beloved wife, Velma. He is survived by his sons, Raymond (Linda), Gordon (Janet), and Barry (Lisa), his grandchildren Laurel, Joel, Riley, Connor and Kyle, and fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family and many good friends.
Jack was born on August 15, 1929 in Maaslius Netherlands, He grew up during the war and spent four years of vocational training to be a ship carpenter. After graduating, the family immigrated to Canada in July 1949. He met Velma after settling in Chilliwack and they were married on October 8, 1955, after which time, the started their family. In 1964 he began working with BC Forest Services. The forest Services transferred the family over the years to Harrison Hot Springs, Echo Bay, Lake Cowichan and then back to Chilliwack. He retired in 1988.
Jack was an avid gardener. He was a member of the Chilliwack Garden Club since 1989. He loved teaching people about gardening. He spent many years working with the Chilliwack School Garden program. He was a member of the Chilliwack Zymurgy Club. His passion for wine making slowly shifted over the years to beer making. He was a five time national beer making champion.
Jack was a lucky man to have been married to Velma for 56 years until she passed in May of 2011. She was the love of his life. Together they raised and instilled in their sons strong values. She is, and he will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
The family would like to extend thanks to Dr. Nagdee and all the staff at Cascade Hospice for kindly caring and keeping him and the family comfortable in his last days. And a special thanks to George Marien for his support to both Jack and the family over the years.
Please join the family for a celebration of life that will be held on November 3rd, from 11-2 at the Chilliwack Curling Club.