May 4, 1928 - March 20, 2020
It Is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John B. Harmsen on March 20, 2020 in Chilliwack BC, he was born May 4, 1928 in Etten, Holland. John was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend. John is survived by his children, John(Gwen), Doreen(Harold), Mary(Ernie), Tony(Kathy), Ron(Donna), Mike(Gina), Ann(Gerald); 21 grandchildren; 43 great grandchildren; and 6 siblings in Holland. He is predeceased by his wife Cathy in 2017 and his son Gordon in 2015, also by 4 sisters in Holland.
Dad was a long time dairy farmer and in his retirement years, enjoyed travelling with mom and golfing with friends and family. He always looked forward to the annual Harmsen Father Son Golf tournament with his sons, grandsons and great grandsons. He rarely skipped a morning walk and loved working in his garden. He had an amazing way of making people smile with his quick wit and charm, and showing kindness wherever he went.
Dad showed us what family means and how to show nothing but love to the ones around you.
"Only God can make a dad with such a loving heart,
Who cares about his kids enough to guide them from the start -
Believing in them always, and so proud of what they do -
Thank heaven there are dads as wonderful as you!"
The family would like to thank the staff and Dad's good friends at the Lynnwood Retirement Home for making Dad's time there so enjoyable. And thank you to the nurses and care staff at Cascade Lodge for taking such good care of dad these last few months.
A private service was held on Wednesday March 25.
Henderson's funeral home is in care of arrangements www.hendersonsfunerals.com for condolences online.