July 3, 1927 - Aug. 28, 2009
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our loving father, John Verschuur at the age of 82.
Predeceased by his grandson, Bradley Verschuur, and brother, Henk Verschuur, he is survived by children, John (Liz) Verschuur, Henry (Margaret) Verschuur, Margaret (Gord) Hill, Marion (Alan) Giesbrecht and their mother Rose; as well as 13 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren; his brother, Albert (Joanne) Verschuur and sister, Geurtje vandenBrink, from Chilliwack, brother, Gert (Ger) Verschuur, sister Ali (Wynand) vandenBroek and sister in law Janny Verschuur from the Netherlands.
Born in Ede, the Netherlands, John immigrated to Canada in 1951 with his bride, Rose and arrived at Pier 21 in Halifax. Travelling by train to Alberta, they spent two years working as ranch hands in Okotoks. Moving to Chilliwack in 1953, he started his life long career in the dairy industry, the first farm was on Lickman Rd.
In 1959, the family moved to Prest Rd where they lived until 1965 when they moved to Ontario for a brief stay, but the beautiful Fraser Valley beckoned them and they moved with their four children, to the current farm on Chilliwack River Rd where John retired from milking cows in 1999.
Not ready to retire entirely, John raised beef and maintained the family farm for a few years until he rented out the farm and resided in his home until his last days.
John lived for the people in his life, as well as the community and often did business on a handshake, his work ethic and ability to see a job through to completion was an inspiration to his family. He was a compassionate father, friend and neighbour and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2009 at 10:00 am at the Bethel Reformed Church, 8920 Broadway St. Chilliwack.
No flowers by request, donations gratefully received by the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 2239C McAllister Avenue. Port Coquitlam, British Columbia V3C 2A9 for family and friends so desiring.
Online condolences can be left at www.mem.com