Obituary of Hendrik Vandekamp
On July 29, 2021, in the presence of his daughter and grandson, our father went Home to be with our Lord and Saviour at the age of 91 at Lakeridge Bowmanville.
Sincere and special thanks to: Rn’s Janine, Page, Jessica, RT Mike and Dr.Pratt- your kindness and care towards our father and family was greatly appreciated and will Always be remembered; To Paster Henk from HCH, Pastor Len and Pastor Bowman from Maranatha Church for pastoral care, all the cards and letters during COVID lockdown from the Deacons and church family, to Nicole at Fosterbrooke for always bringing a smile to Yaya, to Uncle Moose for fielding dozens of Dawn’s calls guiding Dad’s sound medical care over the years, and to all the cousins, Tante’s and Uncles and family who consistently reached out to stay in touch.
Hendrik (Hank) Vandekamp was born on December 8, 1929 in Wilsum, Netherlands, predeceased by parents Hendrik Vandekamp and Hampje (Ten Brinke), siblings Gerrit, Harm, Wicher, Jan, Marie, and survived by sisters Alie and Elly, and many nieces and nephews.
Hank was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Therese for 31 years before her passing. Our father supported her independence, encouraged her hobbies and career, and tirelessly took care of her in sickness until she passed in 1998.
Hank was Father to Douglas Vandekamp (Karen), Daphne Wiersma (Paul) and Dawn Jones (Sean/Robert).
Being a widower was hard for our father, however He found new joy in his role as Yaya with the birth of his grandchildren: Brandon, Ashley, Rachel, James, Kaitlyn, Joshua, Micah and Matthew.
In his retirement, Yaya loved spending time with the grandkids, made efforts to attend all important events when he was able to, including soccer games, family reunions, recitals and school graduations. Yaya enjoyed Day trips to Daphne’s for delicious Sunday dinners, reading fiction and listening to his novels, and visits and coffee with his favourite niece Marlene.
In his final years, Yaya struggled with many health issues, and was happy to live close to Dawn to have frequent family support/visits while living in long term care.
Some of you have reached out and asked how you can help us during this time. Know that your kindness is much appreciated as we navigate this heartbreaking moment.
We kindly ask, if you are able, to donate funds towards our fathers funeral and final expenses.
Donations can be sent to Daphne Wiersma via email: daphneelaine@me.com
Thank you again for supporting us during this time.
Yaya’s final wishes to be cremated and interred beside his wife, Therese at Highland Memory Gardens in North York, Ontario. Due to COVID, a private interment ceremony will be held.
