Hendrik van Huizen
February 4th, 2021
On February 4th, 2021, the Lord took Henk to himself. It was a blessing that he could die at home in these Covid days.
Hendrik van Huizen was born in the Netherlands in 1932. In 1952 he emigrated with his family to Taber, Alberta, to work in the sugar beets. He moved to the Vancouver area in 1956 where he met the love of his life, Willy. They were married in 1959 and had 4 children: Kathy (Bernie), Arnie (Wendy), Jacqueline (Anthony), and Christine (Jason). Later, they were blessed with 12 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
Initially, Dad worked in construction and surveying, but he felt the call to teach in Christian schools. Therefore he took himself off to UBC to get his education degree. Dad was involved in many Christian schools, growing the movement and influencing the direction of several. He began to teach at John Knox Christian School in 1959, and then went to Richmond Christian in 1961. In 1964, Dad and Mom went to Victoria where Dad taught at Calvin Christian School for the next 10 years. They grew deep roots in their church community. Then Dad went to Fraser Valley Christian High where he completed his teaching career in 1995. He is fondly remembered by many students for his care and regard. He was known for his love of Canadian history, his lengthy stride, and his pocket of peppermints.
Henk was well regarded by his peers and colleagues for his cheerful, welcoming presence. He was kind and thoughtful, and always put others first. Many sought him for wisdom and had great respect for his knowledge of scriptures. Henk was thoroughly ‘reformed’ in his outlook and a man of great integrity. He dearly loved his family and each of his children was encouraged to develop God’s gifts in them. He always saw people, not their circumstances, and was moved to acknowledge them as people made in God’s image.
As a family we are grateful for the life of a man who lived well for his King.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence for the family.
Messages:
My condolences to you, Willy, and also to your children. I only learned yesterday that Henk has gone to be with the Lord. I always appreciated him as a colleague and as a friend - his wisdom, his thoughtfulness, his sense of humour. May the Lord's comfort give you peace and strength.
Willy, Our condolences to you and your family, we fondly remember your visit to our home when it was so hot and Hank decided that my grass needed cutting and he got out the push mower and cut the grass in that heat, next day you toured Niagara Falls. So we have good memories May God's grace carry you. Henry & Trix
Our deepest sympathie to Willy and the family. We pray that you may find strength and peace in these days. We have warm memories of when Henk (and Willy) came to visit us and when We met you at your house. We feel blessed to have known him.
Condolences to Willy and the family- a great loss for you but a coming Home for Henk! May our gracious God give you all comfort and peace! We will give thanks for who he was - for us and our children!
I am thankfull for Henks advise on the van Huizen family-tree, which has come connected to my own family. I wish you all the best in these harsh times, where meeting is dangerous and may long for contact. May the Lord be with you all in the time to come. Btw. You can see Henks contributions at https://www.pcwebber.nl/genealogie
Our condolences to Willy and children at this time. May you be comforted in knowing that he is home now. We are not able to attend the funeral because of COVID but will be with you watching on line on feb 20. We send COVID hugs. Peace of Christ to you.
Our condolences to you, particularly to you, Kathy & Bernie. I happened to see the obituary in The Banner and wanted to extend my condolences to you. Praying for God's peace to surround and fill you. ~Stan Groothof