August 1, 1923 - February 8, 2022
In loving memory ~
Douwe (Dave) Zylstra was born in Ureterp, Friesland, The Netherlands, on August 1, 1923. He went to school until Grade 8, and then worked on his family farm. He also obtained a degree in Agriculture. During the war he went into hiding on another farm for a few years.
He achieved his dream of immigrating to Canada with his new bride, Susan (Sjoerdtje) in July 1951. We all remember him as a very hard-working man who often worked 3 jobs to provide not only for the daily needs of his growing family, but also making Christian Education a priority for his 11 children. He was always active in the church, loved singing in the choir, showing his love for the Lord, his family and especially God's Word.
Our dad and "Pake" is survived by 10 children: John (Hilda) Zylstra, Marty (Adeline) Zylstra, Geri (Herman) Klaassens, Jackie (Clayton) DeGroot, Arlene (John) Goutbeck, Patricia (Pete) Boonstra, Marsha (Rick) Span, Tim (Jill) Zylstra, Valerie (Joe) VanGelderen, and Rhoda Hendricks; and one sister in The Netherlands, Aukje Touwen. He was blessed with 77 grandchildren and 171 great-grandchildren who also mourn his loss, along with spouses.
Douwe was predeceased by his first wife, Gerbrechtje; unborn daughter (May 12, 1950); son, Peter (August 7, 1976); grandson, Ryan DeGroot (December 18, 2015); and wife, Susan (October 31, 2018); as well as 2 brothers and 3 sisters.
Psalm 73: 23-25a: Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel and afterwards you will receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? (ESV)
A Funeral Service was held on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 11:00 am. at Redeemer United Reformed Church in Lacombe, AB.
A Private Family Visitation was held on Friday, February 11, 2022 from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm. at Wilson's Funeral Chapel in Lacombe, AB.
Condolences may be made by visiting www.wilsonsfuneralchapel.ca
Wilsons Funeral Chapel