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“He’s just gone on ahead”

Peter was born in “The Beemster” North Holland, July 28, 1933, the eighth born to a family of 11 children. The family home was also a hardwood sawmill, where Peter worked as a sawyer and sheep shearer. June 10, 1953 he enlisted in the Dutch Army and became a driver trainer and driver for transporting around the country.

In 1957, Peter immegrated to Smithers where he lived for 35 years. He married Ann. They had five children. He worked in the bush as a sawyer and then in construction and also operated a rental store for a number of year.

After that he became a successful house painter. In 1992 he moved to Kelowna where he continued his painting career. He got involved in the Klaverjas (Dutch Cards) club, where he loved to play and met Pauline.

Peter loved walking to Tim Hortons to meet with friends every morning. Peter loved people, always making new friends and making people smile. He was adventurous. He had the strength, determination and love for life for many new beginnings.

Peter passed away peacefully on Sept. 10, 2008 after a courageous battle with dementia and cancer.

He is survived by his children, Jim (Sheri), Glen (Helen), Peggy, Cliff, Wayne (Melody), loving friend Pauline; grandchildren, Nicole, Madison, Christopher, Emily, Tiffany and Dylon; brothers and sisters, Marie (Franz), Tini, Nico (Co), Cees, Ben (Meip), Ton (Elly) all from the Netherlands and Ali (Jan) Vanbaarsen of Ladner, B.C. Predeceased by three brothers, Adrie, Jan, Anton anda sister Agetha.

Funeral mass was held Sept. 15, 2008 at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Kelowna, B.C. Donations may be made to BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, 4480 Oak St., Rm 13321, Vancouver, B.C., V6H 3V4.



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