Hendrikus Willem VANDERLAAN

Hendrikus Willem Vanderlaan, July 29,1942-Sept.29,2022. Henk, Pa, Papa, Opa was born in Wageningen, The Netherlands. Pa served in the Dutch Army for 2 years from 1960-1962. He had met the love of his life Ann and they married in 1962 in a civil ceremony in their home town of Wageningen. Before long they started a family and had daughters Carin, Ellen and Berna. In 1974 the Family immigrated to Canada, landing on Vancouver Island, where Ann had a cousin who helped settle them and eased the transition from Europe to Island life. Henk and Ann bought property in Yellow Point and raised their daughters on their little slice of paradise in a beautiful home built by Henk. Pa taught his daughters to be independent, making sure they had life skills pertaining to life on the homestead, whether it was changing a flat tire, chopping wood or milking a goat. He was an avid gardener and raised many chickens, rabbits and goats on their property. Henk was a true woodworker, as he could make or repair anything with wood. As a carpenter, he worked in the construction trade but also built a number of houses. He was a gifted furniture maker and could repair any antiques. He is lovingly remembered and will truly be missed by his wife of 60 years Ann, daughter Carin (Dan), Ellen (Mark), Berna (Steven), grandchildren Simone (Jordan), Seth, Avin, Stuart, Finley, great grand children Grayson, Whitney, Alice and nephew Tim (Annette). A celebration of his life will be held for family and close friends. 

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