Sep 3, 1933 - Mar 5, 2018
Fredrikus Hofsink, age 84, passed away to glory, at home in Smithers, BC, on Monday, March 5, 2018.
Born on September 3, 1933 in Bergentheim, Holland. 4th child of Jan Willem and Regina Aleida Hofsink (nee Pullen) named after his maternal grandfather, Fredrikus Pullen. He immigrated with his parents and 8 siblings, (Margie McEwan, Minnie Nyman, Henk Hofsink, Sophie Leffers, Bill Hofsink, Jean Brienen, George Hofsink, Ben Hofsink), in 1948 and settled in Barret Lake, BC.
Later he moved to Smithers, where he married Ploon Van Dijk on August 15, 1958. He worked for Piet Dieleman in the bush for several years. Because of a knee injury he was told to find a less strenuous job on his body. He started working in construction, and then formed a company with his brothers Bill and George (Triple H Construction) in 1964. A year later, with his father's help, he bought Smithers Lumber Yard.
After a short time, his brothers told him that he was a better business man than a carpenter, so he concentrated his time in the business rather than swinging a hammer. Later his brothers, Bill, George and Ben became his business partners. In 1991 Fred bought his brothers out and asked his sons to become his partners.
In 1999 Fred retired but still enjoyed his coffee at SLY almost daily.
Fred and Ploon had seven children, Willie (Rita) Hofsink, Nena Hofsink, Harry (Clara) Hofsink, Ria (Henry) Jans, Fred (Judy) Hofsink, Plony (John) deJong and Deb Torenvliet. He loved them dearly and enjoyed many years with them all. During his working years he spent many relaxing days on the "Nenas" (I, II, and III) his houseboat on Babine Lake. Fred and Ploon also enjoyed traveling and after Fred retired they bought a motorhome and made many great memories with their travels.
Fred enjoyed having his family surrounding him, his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He had a strong faith in our Heavenly Father. He was an anchor for us all, a strong pillar in his family and Church family. He always kept us in his thoughts and prayers.
A Memorial Service was held on March 5th in the Smithers Canadian Reformed Church with Pastor Slaa officiating. Fred was laid to rest in the Smithers Cemetery.
The family of Fred Hofsink expresses their sincere thanks for the prayers and expressions of love during our time of bereavement, with a special thank you to Dr. Scholtz, the home care nurses, Denise Kalina and the volunteers at the Hospice Society.
In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Bulkley Valley Hospice Society, Box 8, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0.
Condolences may be made at www.raschraderfuneralhome.com.
Fred was predeceased by his sister Sophie and great grandson Kai.
R.A. Schrader Funeral Home