A compassionate and much-loved North Vancouverite passed away Dec. 8, leaving a legacy for future generations. Dirk led a vibrant life which started in Amsterdam, and included significant times in Sweden, England, Luxembourg, Yukon, Lake Louise, British Columbia, and 60 years in North Vancouver.
With his wife of 62 years Pieternella (Nellie), they raised four sons with growing families and stepfamilies with Paul (Joyce, Matt, Morgan), Eric (Kristen, Jacob, Luke), Ian (Debbie, Jeremy, Trevor-Vida, Tiana) and Irwin (Michael-Jasta-Marley, Inessa). He is predeceased by his daughter-in-law Madeleine. He was an incredibly loved family man. He led an active life as: youth soccer coach; President, North Shore Neighbourhood House; North Shore Arts Commission; Founder, North Shore Garden Contest; Senior National Judge, Communities in Bloom. Dirk served the District of North Vancouver as Parks Manager (1959-1993) and with great affinity for his parks crews created Maplewood Farm, Canada’s first public skateboard bowl at Seylynn Park, Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre, innovative sports fields and dozens more parks and mountain trails.
With Parkinson’s disease, Dirk continued to live actively. He learned resilience from his youth in WW2, living in hiding, sick with diphtheria when he was liberated by Canadian troops (chronicled at www.vankijkduinstraat.nl). A life well-lived, inspiring many, and lived with purpose.
Dirk will be placed at rest in the North Vancouver Cemetery and a public service will be held on Monday, Dec. 16, 1pm, at North Lonsdale United Church, 3380 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver.
Please direct questions about the service to Irwin Oostindie, ioostindie@gmail.com