WESSELS, Gerrit Arno
Gerrit Wessels, born July 10th, 1928, a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and great - grandfather passed peacefully to Rest in the Lord on Friday, April 17, 2015 at Maple Ridge Hospital, he was 86. Gerrit was born in Elsfleth, Germany, to Captain at Sea Reinhard Wessels and his wife Gesine. Gerrit started his apprenticeship in the merchant marines at age 14 and continued the family tradition of seaman until 1954. On March 16, 1949 he married the love of his life, the former Edith Wolff from Stettin, Germany. In 1957 Gerrit, Edith and their two young daughters immigrated to Vancouver, Canada. The challenges in a new country were many but Gerrit was a wonderful provider who worked hard for his family; he was a generous and exceptional man who put all others above himself. His commitment to family was absolute. He loved fishing and was very proud to have caught his 32 lb spring salmon but he mainly enjoyed spending time with his family. Gerrit is survived by his wife Edith of 66 years, his three children, five grandchildren and five great -grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his loving family and friends and will live in our hearts forever.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2015 at Haney Presbyterian Church, 11858 - 216th Street Maple Ridge, BC. Reception to follow in the church hall.
Condolences may be sent to: www.mapleridgefuneral.ca