Our beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather and Opa passed away peacefully in his sleep at home. He leaves to mourn his loss his children, Hank (Beverly), Peter (Virginia), Hans (Darlane}, Roberto, Diana Boucher (Denis), Brenda (John); 20 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Renske in 2010. He married Renske Timmermans on October 12, 1951. They were blessed with 6 children 4 boys and 2 girls. Bill emigrated from the Netherlands in 1957 with Renske and the four boys following in 1958.
Bill, like many who emigrated to Canada in the 50s, worked hard to give his children opportunities not available in the Netherlands and instilled in all of us his work ethic and never give up attitude. He worked for various employers before gaining a position at Minchau brothers blacksmith and welding in south Edmonton. He earned his welding ticket and went on to achieve his Fitter and Boilermaker tickets. Upon his retirement he held the position of shop foreman in one of the large structural steel fabricators in south Edmonton. As shop foreman he gave many immigrants from various countries the same opportunities he received to learn a trade and better themselves. He was an example for all to follow with his kindness and generosity and willingness to provide opportunities to others to improve themselves.
He loved to travel and returned to the Netherlands many times with mom to visit friends and family, He also traveled all over western Canada with mom to support her in her passion singing in the Dutch choir and in clogging competitions. Bill was the consummate family man who was always happy to have members of his family drop by. He was always ready to give advice on how to make his special soup or make gravy or how to cook vegetables properly.
Bill was diagnosed with a brain tumor in July of last year and insisted on staying in his home until his last day. His wish was fulfilled when he passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday July 26. Bill was very independent and did not want to be fussed over and following Bill’s wishes, there will be no service of remembrance.
Those wishing to remember Bill may do so by donating a gift in his memory to the charity of their choice.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Willem William Jan Swankhuizen 2021..
Décès pour la Ville: Edmonton, Province: Alberta