John Van Assen

Dad (Jan) was born in Noorwijk, Groningen the Netherlands, the third of nine children born to Peter and Joukje Van Assen (Ploegh). From an early age his wish was to be a farmer. After he was done schooling Dad worked with his father in the roof-tile industry. In August of 1951 on board the Volendam, Dad, his parents, and siblings immigrated to Canada with the hope of finding better opportunities.

Not too long after Dad found work in construction at Little’s Brickyard and eventually started his own construction business building basements. In 1961, he would later go on to sell his part of the business and purchase some farmland east of Neerlandia where his wish of becoming a farmer became a reality. Even though Dad farmed for over thirty-four years until his retirement in 1995, he would still actively help out driving the machines until the grandsons replaced him on the tractors and combines.

Besides farming, Dad enjoyed reading, singing the Psalms, woodworking, golfing, and snooker. He enjoyed working in his flowerbeds and getting the garden beds ready for planting.

Dad married Mom, Rita Rowaan of Neerlandia, on April 5 1963. Their marriage was blessed with nine children, 8 boys and 1 girl; Peter (Margaret), Jerold (Sharon), Ivan (Sarah), Robert (Jodi), Grant (Vonessa), Loren (Nellie), David (Michelle), Earl (Marilyn) and Joni (Siebe) and 44 grandchildren and 37 great- grandchildren.

Church played an important role in his life. Dad served as an elder for many years, attended Classis and was an active member in the church. He was also involved in various community activities serving on the boards of the CCRS school and the Neerlandia Co-op.

In the past Dad has faced some serious health concerns which was not easy for either of them. Thankfully after all this had passed,Dad was still able to get out and about visiting family members.

On June 19 2025 with loved ones at his bedside, Dad was finally free of his earthly journey with its limitations and the Lord took him into heavenly glory.

Dad is predeceased by his father, mother, and four siblings-Henry, William, Eke, and Bieuwke.

A funeral service for John will be held Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Neerlandia Canadian Reformed Church.