April 30, 1931-Sept. 14, 2017
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father Jack.
Born in Holland in 1931, Jack was the third of five sons born to Johannes and Gerritje Nienhuis. In 1954 Jack married Jacoba Flik in Zwolle, Overijssel, and in August of 1954 Jack and Cobi immigrated to Canada. Settling in Strathroy, Ont., Jack carried on his profession as watchmaker at Reeds Jewelers.
After a few years at Reeds, Jack was offered a job with Glendale of Strathroy. That was the beginning of a 30yr. career in the Manufactured Home industry. In 1973, Jack was given the opportunity to move his family from Estevan, Sask. to Red Deer. He went to work at Travelaire, as Plant Manager. He was there for 13 yrs.
He leaves behind his wife Cobi, of Bassano Ab., daughter Joan (Fred) Friesen of Bassano, Ab., his son Jim (Carolyn) of Red Deer County. Six grandchildren: Elisa (Jason) Van Englen, daughters, Sarah, Gillian and Laura of Airdrie; Nicholas (Jessica) Ryan, children Cayden, twins Preston and Payton of Red Deer; Kris (Katie) Friesen, daughter Olivia Mae, of Montana; Kevin Brown of Red Deer; Jesselyn Nienhuis, children Diego and Isabella; Janessa Nienhuis and Lliot Brown of Red Deer. Two brothers, Jan and Gerrit Nienhuis and their families in Holland, along with many nieces and nephews in Holland.
Jack will always be remembered by his great grandchildren Diego and Isabella as "Big Opa". Jack loved his family, cherished his friendships, his passion was fishing, and his grand and great grandchildren were his pride and joy.
A celebration of life in Jack's memory will be held on Saturday, Sep. 23, at 70-Castle Cresent in Red Deer from 1-5 pm. Everyone that knew Jack are welcome to join us. In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation be made to the Parkinsons Association of Alberta.