was a man of few words but impeccable values. He was our rock. He was selfless, kind, gentle, loving, and had one hell of a sense of humour. From his life’s start in the Netherlands, where he helped to support his parents and siblings during and after the Second World War, to his newly claimed life in Canada, Jan was always one to observe the needs of others and show his care in small gifts and acts of service.
The most important thing in Jan’s life was his family. Jan and his wife Johanna (Joan) have a nearly 74-year love story and commitment that stand as an example for all their children and grandchildren as the epitome of how one should be loved and treated. Whether they were sitting in their chairs reading novels, cooking pannekoek for the grandkids, or kissing amongst the heather on their honeymoon, Jan and Johanna were inseparable. Jan taught his family that the only way to be successful was to work hard for what you want and make sure you never take advantage of the small moments, the simple moments, the everyday moments. It is in those everyday moments that Jan could be found silently observing his loved ones with a proud smile.
Jan and Johanna were the owners of the well-known Austin Cycle in Coquitlam. A skilled bike rider and mechanic, Jan will forever be remembered in the BC Cycling community for his unwavering commitment to the sport.
Jan is survived by his wife Johanna, their children Ron, Earl (Maureen), and Tanya, his grandchildren Janice, Austin, Nicole, Cameron, Chenoa, Halle, Bryce, and Kai, and his siblings Anna (Henk), Piet (Nel), Gerda, Truus (Ben), and Wilhelmina (Auka).
We carry your memory with us. We hope to make you proud as examples of how hard work and love can concur even in the most difficult of times. We love you.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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