John Evert Houtstra

It is with profound sadness that the family of John Evert Houtstra announces his peaceful passing on October, 21 2022 at the age of 76 years old. He was surrounded by his loving and devoted wife of 53 years, Joanne. Dad is survived by his 4 girls and their spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren - Shauna & Randy Stawnichy, with children Brendan & Ashley, Ryley, Tanner and Toria - Traci Franko, with children Mason & Cheryl, with great grandchildren Alivia and Emmylou and Madison & Curtis - Annette & Daryl Slobinyk, with children Mackenzie & Coleton, Hunter, Reagan, Cooper and Hudson - Tamara and Prescott Franko, with children Colbey and Londyn.

He was predeceased by his parents John and Grace Houtstra, as well as sisters Janie and Dixie.
John will be forever remembered for being the toughest man, with the biggest heart. He loved hard and was loved harder. He was the rock of his family, that he was more than beyond proud of. He is already missed more than imaginable. Our hearts are broken.

John (Jan) was born in Heerlen Netherlands on April 23, 1946. He was the second child of 10 children. He came to Canada when he was 5 years old. He loved being Dutch and having 4 little Dutch girls. Those who knew him, knew that his family was his world. Dad would say "we did good," referring to the amazing family he built. The love from all of us was dad's pride and joy. Dad will be remembered for his passion of racing pigeons, driving his truck and hanging out with the gang. Watching his sports on TV or challenging mom with game show answers. Dad was filled with hope and loved by many.

Dad was so thankful for the amazing care given by Dr. Flanagan and everyone involved in his care to allow him to stay at home through the toughest time of his life battling cancer.

Your wings were ready to fly, but our hearts were not ready to let you go.

We invite you to join us to celebrate his Memorial Service at Maranatha CRC. 11905- 47 street Edmonton, AB October 29, 2022 at 1100 am.

We will be honoured for everyone to join us for a Celebration of Life and a luncheon following the service. We will be sharing stories, videos, laughs and tears about our Big John. Details on location to follow. Please contact family members for information.

Memorial Donations may be made in honour of John Houtstra to Alberta Birds of Prey burrowingowl.com/support_donate.
Or to the family to help contribute to a Commemorative bench, that will be place in Beverly, in honour of him. damhr@telus.net e-transfer