Mr. Dirk Vonk

Mr. Dirk Vonk was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

      Dirk was born on February 23, 1934 at home, in Amsterdam, Netherlands. He was the son of Anna and Hendrikus Vonk. Dirk grew up in Amsterdam.

      Dirk was raised with three siblings. Cees, Jetty and Anneke. Dirk was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

      As a young boy, Dirk had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Dirk was an active child who took part in soccer and skating. However, to Dirk, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

      Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Dirk enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were Martin Esselink and Cor Vanessen.

      On September 14, 1960 Dirk exchanged wedding vows with Henny Kolenbrander at City Hall in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Empathic and loyal, Dirk was committed to making his new family happy.

      Dirk worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Dirk was blessed with two children, one son Richard and one daughter Sonja. Another blessing for Dirk was the gift of two grandchildren, Paul and Vicki.

      Fortunately, Dirk enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Dirk worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was as a Steel Worker. He was employed for 26 years by Lasco Steel. Dirk always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

      Dirk was in the Dutch Marine Corp. He was stationed in New Guinea. Through his hard work, he achieved the rank of Marine First Class. His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

      Dirk enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favourite pursuits were traveling. He was content to enjoy his favourite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

      Dirk found pleasure in sports. In high school, Dirk played soccer and swimming. Recreational sports included soccer. Dirk was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list were soccer, hockey, baseball and boxing.

      Throughout his life, Dirk was a doer and was always actively involved in professional and community organizations. Throughout his later years, Dirk was an active member of the card club, billiard club and the Marine Alumni club.

      Dirk enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favourite vacations included Florida, Caribbean Cruise, Alaskan Cruise and Las Vegas.

      Dirk was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. His favourite pets were his two dogs, Sandy and Rascal. They were best friends for 16 years.

      When Dirk’s retirement finally arrived in 1996, he was well prepared. In retirement, he found new pleasure in traveling and watching television. Even in retirement, Dirk continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Dirk was active in his new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.

      Dirk passed away on November 30, 2009 at home, after a long battle with Mesothelioma, Prostate Cancer and Heart Disease. He is survived by his wife Henny, daughter Sonja, son-in-law Sam and grandchildren Paul and Vicki. Services were held at Oshawa Funeral Home Chapel. Dirk was laid to rest in Thornton Cemetery, Oshawa, Ontario.

      Simply stated, Dirk was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Dirk leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Mr. Dirk Vonk.