Tribute

Bill passed away peacefully at Holmberg House Hospice, Abbotsford, BC on Tuesday, March 2, 2021. He is mourned and lovingly remembered by Hennie, his wife of 58 years, along with their children: Terril (Gary) Veeneman, Shirley (Art) Verwoerd, Rich (Jenny), and Wayne (Frankie). He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren: Michelle (Kevin), Daniel (Erin), Sheri (Cam), Becky (Michael), Justin (Taylor), Alisa, Derek (Sarah), Jessica (Jesse), Tia, Ryan (Ashley), Jeremy (Sam), Cassidy and 15 great-grandchildren.  Bill was born on April 5, 1940 in Haarlemmermeer, The Netherlands to John and Teuntje van Tol, number six of 13 children. Bill immigrated to Canada (Abbotsford) with his family in April, 1953 and moved to Ladner, BC a few years later. There Bill met the love of his life, Hennie Kleine, and the two were married on February 22, 1963. They made their home in Ladner until 1992, when they moved to Abbotsford, BC.  Bill and Hennie were blessed with five children, one of whom was born into heaven, and later they were also blessed with 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.  Bill’s faith and trust in his Lord was at the core of who he was. It was the foundation of his life, demonstrated both at home with his family, and also in the community. Bill was very involved in Ladner Christian Reformed Church and also Trinity Christian Reformed Church and was honoured to sit on Council for both congregations numerous times. Being a deacon was a work of heart for Bill, and Hennie often joined him for the visits he did.  Bill held a variety of jobs including working at the peat bog, driving truck for a steel company, but the large part of his working career was spent at Vanderpol’s Eggs/Golden Valley Foods. He was well loved and respected by all who had the privilege of working with him.  The Life’s Second Chance Thrift Store was a huge part of Bill’s life after retirement. In fact, he worked as hard as a volunteer there as he ever did for his paid jobs. He was fondly known as the ‘fleet manager’ ‘coffee maker’ and ‘clean-up crew’ all rolled into one. Bill volunteered there five days a week until his illness no longer allowed for it.  Dad’s greatest joy was being with his family. His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were so very important to him and he was a wonderful, kind, and caring Dad, Opa and Opie. Together, Bill and Hennie have modelled a life of generosity, service, and unconditional love by always being willing to share what they have, and accepting and encouraging everyone, regardless of circumstances.  Bill’s passing has left a huge hole in our families and our hearts. We are comforted knowing that he is relieved from his pain and enjoying the presence of his Lord. Amen!

The memorial service will be live-streamed on March 8, 2021 at 1pm.