Jochem (Joe) Anthony Bennik

Jochem (Joe) Anthony Bennik of Rimbey passed into glory to be with his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ on Thursday, November 12, 2020 at the age of 90.

Joe was born on October 12, 1930 in the town of Velp in The Netherlands.  He immigrated to Canada in December 1951 arriving in Halifax and taking a train across the country to Calgary.  He ended up in the Bottrel area where he worked for some farmers and also worked in logging in the bush for a short period of time.

He met the love of his life, Wilma Weening in 1952 and they were married in Calgary in 1956 where they resided in the Bowness area.  His childhood dream of being a farmer became a reality in the spring of 1962 when they purchased a farm west of Rimbey.  

Joe was a man who loved the Lord and placed his trust in God for his salvation.  His favourite verse was from 2 Corinthians 9:12a, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”.  Joe lived his life to honour God and loved God’s creation, choosing a career in farming to be able to work the land and with animals.

Joe loved people and relationships.  He treated all with respect and kindness, demonstrating and reflecting the grace provided him by his Saviour.  He was well loved and touched many lives through his words and demeanor.

Joe will be remembered and missed by his children Sy (Grace) Bennik, Audrey (Peter) deKlerk, Joanne (Cor) Bouwsema, Carolyn (James) Vanderhoek, 18 grandchildren and 39 great grandchildren (two more on the way) and his sister Toos (Joop) Pennekamp in The Netherlands. 

Joe was predeceased by his loving wife Wilma (2015), his infant grandson, Benjamin Vanderhoek and two brothers, Henk & Simon. 

A Celebration of Joe’s life will be held in Rimbey on Tuesday November 17 @ 1:30 for immediate family (children & grandchildren). The service will be available online at http://www.rimbeyCRC.com - or - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFf9b2uDEz9VUB4Y5pyc57g

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, family and friends for their care, support and prayers.

If friends desire memorial contributions may be made to the Rimbey Christian School mailed to Box 90 Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0.

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