John van Dongen

Born in the Netherlands, John was the youngest of eight children. Losing his mother at the age of 5 and growing up through the difficult times of war, he learned early lessons in resilience and endurance.

Driven by ambition to build astrong life for himself, he made the courageous decision to leave Holland at the age of 16 to come to Canada. That same bold, strength guided him through every challenge, teaching us all that stubborn perseverance & hard work lead to great accomplishments. He started his adventures in Winnipeg where he met his wife, Juliana Van Dongen (Jean) and they went West to create their life together, settling in Richmond, BC.

Following his father's lead he turned his passion for horses into a work he loved and became an accomplished Dutch horse breeder & trader for more than 50 years. Inspired by John Wayne, Walt Disney, & Elvis, an entrepreneurial maverick, striving to 'pave the way' in the horse industry, he was a pioneering legend who made things happen. He was the first to put a horse on a plane, flying from Holland to North America, bringing new bloodlines. An 'old school influencer 'sharing guidance to many aspiring horse lovers. He provided horseback riding, pony rides at the PNE, created festivals, & hayrides for all the lower mainland to enjoy. He even ran for Mayor in Richmond with the slogan "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH" & "if you can't beat em join em" (wearing his white cowboy hat of course).

John was a colorful personality with a good sense of humor, often pushing boundaries and was truly memorable to all who met him. He perfected the art of a good deal, resulting in a rewarding business and providing for his family. His legacy lives on brightly through his lineage of horses and the many adventurous stories we have all promised to keep sharing. He did it HIS WAY. They don't make cowboys like this anymore the end of an era . . .

John hung up his cowboy hat and spent his final years in the diligent care of the kindhearted, genuine people of Magnolia Gardens Care Home. His family extends their forever gratitude to the staff for helping their dad feel at home and well cared for. The staff always made us feel welcome and became family to us during our many visits.

Predeceased by his devoted wife Jean of 63 years in 2018, John leaves this world survived by his four loving children, and their supportive spouses. He also leaves behind six gifted grandchildren and ten promising greatgrandchildren to carry on the family legacy.

A Celebration of John's life will be planned for the spring.