October 30, 1931 - June 1, 2021
Peter (Petrus) Gemser passed away peacefully to his Heavenly home in the afternoon of June 1, 2021.
Dad will be dearly missed by his loving wife and soulmate Margie (Maartje), of 65 years, and his six children, Jessica (Walter), Anne (Dan), Christine (Eric), Alex (Linda), Eric and Paul (Kim).
Also missing him are his grandchildren, Darren (Heidi), Brent (Karin), Marissa (Nathan), Erika, Corey (Crystal), Raylene (Cam), Rhonda, Ryan, Greg (Amy), Hillary, Wyatt, as well as 16 great-grandchildren.
Sadly, he was predeceased by his granddaughter, Annalise in 2018 and Erika's husband, Chad in 2020.
Both Dad and Mom grew up in the small village of Sexbierum, Friesland, in the Netherlands. They were school hood friends, and both sang in the church and community choirs. They both had a love for singing and could harmonize so well together.
Dad spent two years in Surinam with the Dutch Army. He and Mom were married in February 1956 and a month later they boarded the 'Groote Beer,' and sailed across the Atlantic to Halifax, boarded the train and travelled to the Fraser Valley. Here, Dad worked as a hired hand on a dairy farm. Eventually Dad built up his own dairy herd and they were able to purchase their own farm in 1966.
After retirement they built their home in Hatzic and took to the road in their motorhome travelling all throughout North America, plus many trips back to visit family and friends in the Netherlands.
Dad walked with the Lord and had a deep-rooted faith. He was more than willing to share his faith with anyone that crossed his path, including hitchhikers. Dad was devoted to serving and volunteered his time on the church board and for various organizations, Dad is also remembered for his optimistic and humorous character.
After Dad's health started failing, he moved to Menno Hospital. Mom joined Dad there for his last five months which was such a blessing for both of them. We are grateful and thankful for all the wonderful people who gave Dad the most excellent care and had such compassion for him.
Dad's favorite Bible verse, Isaiah 40:31, gives us comfort as we grieve and remember his life.