Jacob Wilhelmus Heerschop

November 17, 1943 – January 14, 2026

Jacob Wilhelmus Heerschop, age 82, passed away peacefully at Regina Wascana Grace Hospice on January 14th, 2026

Jacob was born on November 17, 1943, in Laren, Netherlands, to Piet Heerschop and Everdina Kujier. Proud of his Dutch roots and way of life, Jacob carried his culture with him wherever he went—especially through the foods he loved, the sweet treats he treasured, and the steady, practical values he lived by. In 1966, he emigrated to Canada, first settling in Carnduff, Saskatchewan, arriving with friends from the Netherlands after his time in the Air Force. Over the years, he made a life across Saskatchewan, living in Meadow Lake, North Battleford, and Prince Albert.

Jacob was a finishing carpenter, known for being meticulous, reliable, and proud of his work. He built with his hands and his heart—furniture crafted from scratch, a home and barn on the family farm outside Meadow Lake, and countless projects that served communities across Saskatchewan. He worked with companies including Wolfe Construction and Quorex, and he was often the last one to leave the job site. Jacob helped build schools and health care centres, including many on First Nations in Saskatchewan—quietly leaving behind work that will stand for generations.

Jacob will be remembered as gentle, hardworking, and quiet, with a tall frame, a distinct Dutch accent, and unforgettable ice-blue eyes. He was kind and sweet by nature—someone who could not harm a fly—and he loved animals deeply, especially cats, including his beloved fur babies Tippy and Furby.

Jacob enjoyed the simple comforts of life: coffee and milk, watching the news, nature shows, and the Weather Network, cheering for the Edmonton Oilers, and supporting the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He loved fishing, boating, sightseeing, and travel, and he never lost his appreciation for a good meal—especially Dutch croquettes, spiced gouda, KFC fried chicken, and homemade favourites like Nasi and Hutspot.

Jacob was previously married to Rose Sieben, and together they had three children. He later shared 35 loving years with his partner Janet Kissick, who predeceased him in 2019.

Jacob is lovingly remembered by his children: Christina Johns (Allen), David Heerschop (Ada), and Peter Heerschop (Sheila); his grandchildren Brittany Dusyk (Ceane), Jacob Johns, and Caderyn Heerschop; and his great-grandchild Jace Dusyk.

He is also survived by his four sisters in the Netherlands—Anneke, Ria, Tineke, and Leny—and by many nieces and nephews, all of whom remained dear to him throughout his life, despite the distance.

A private family service will be held. The family wishes to extend sincere gratitude to the staff at Grace Hospice Care Centre and Pasqua Hospital for their care and compassion.