GABIUS HENDRIK ‘HENK’ ABMA

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Gabius Hendrik “Henk” Abma, of Emo, Ont., on Monday March 11, 2013 at Rainycrest Long-Term Care in Fort Frances, Ont.
He was born in Bolsward, Friesland on July 8, 1923 to Pietje and Johannes Abma. He immigrated to Winnipeg, Man. in 1950 and there Henk worked for the T. Eaton Company as a baker for 10 years.
In 1960, Henk and his family moved to Rainy River, Ont. and bought the old Bollenbach’s Bakery. Henk’s bread was well-known throughout the district, and he delivered to many homes and businesses for more than 25 years.
He also was famous for his delicious Christmas cakes and cinnamon buns.
Henk loved to listen to organ music and choirs, and was an avid reader. He was well-respected and loved by his children and his church family; he loved God and his church.
Henk wanted people to remember that he worked long and hard hours to provide for his family, and that he was an honest, giving, and caring person.
Henk will be greatly missed by his children, Jo-Anne (Pat) Giles of Rainy River, Ont., Nellie (Greg) Wells of Winnipeg, Man., Ina Finney of Winnipeg, Man., Henrietta (Clyde) Danielson of Calgary, Alta., Thomas (Lori) Abma of Fort Frances, Ont., and Diane (John Borges) Abma of Duffield, Alta.
He also will be missed by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brothers, Tom and Hank of Toronto, Ont., and sisters, Tini of Toronto, Ont., and Grytje, Dicky, and Thea, all of Holland.
Henk was predeceased by his parents, Johannes and Pieternella; and siblings, Pieter and Ina.
A memorial service was held Saturday, March 16, 2013 at 10 a.m. at the Christian Reformed Church in Emo, with Pastor John Vanderburgh officiating.
Interment will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Rainy River at a later date.
The honourary pallbearers were Charlie Byma, John and Irene Ploegman, Wilma and Arend Weilinga, John and Linda Esselink, and all of Henk’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In memoriam donations may be made to the Sturgeon Creek Alternative Program c/o Northridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com