Condolences
I remember Arie describing the church he helped build; it was clear he experienced joy in serving his community and in doing hard work. His example was a blessing. I am grateful for the short time I knew him.
Frank and I are so sorry for your loss. We pray that God will comfort you and the family in this time of sorrow. Our prayers and thoughts are with you
Dear Marie with family my condolences to you and your loved ones at this sad time, may your heart and soul find peace and comfort.
My friend Arie, you will be in our heart forever....
Grażyna, Jerzy and Kinga
This past week has brought back many lovely memories. I remember the smell of your workshop, the evidence of your many projects expertly completed. I remember your love of the birds you attracted to your yard. I remember our time in The Netherlands, how your face would light up showing me the world of your youth. We miss you, praying for our eventual reuniting.
Thanks Dad for your contributions to our lives. Always enjoyed the vacations we took together (Hawaii, Grand Canyon, Zion, Alaska, PEI, and touring around Alberta).You faithfully recorded these activities while everyone else was caught up in the moment. Thanks to you we can now look back and relive those times. You always gave of your talents, renovating our home and giving advice for any construction or tool question. Most importantly thank you for your testimony, your walk with your Savior.
We miss you already, Grandpa. I'll always remember our trip to the Netherlands, and how special it was to visit where you grew up.
I remember the first Church Service at Smithville CRC and Arie and Marie were sitting in front of me and Arie was so warm and welcoming. Arie, You will be forever loved and missed from your family and friends.
Marie, You will be in my prayers that you will forever feel the warmth and everlasting presence of love Arie had for you,
I remember the family Christmas NewYears reunions that we had in the basement of the Smithville Christian Reformed Church. I remember the first year I was able to be a part of the adult gift exchange in the 80's. Hand-made gifts were brought and names were exchanged randomly. I received this beautiful jewellery box that Uncle Arie had crafted complete with the red velvet glued inside. I think it was the nicest gift there, really likely made for someone much older who actually would have jewellery. When my name was drawn for this gift Uncle Arie gracefully gave it not knowing if this young nephew would treasure it and all the hard work he put into building it so well. I have my keepsakes in it and have treasured it all these years. I've enjoyed the chats throughout the years as he always showed an interest in my life. Uncle Arie had a gift with his hands, but also was a great Uncle to talk to and had the ability to make you feel special.
Kevin