Henry A. Donkers

Henricus Adrianus Donkers was born in Moergestal Holland to his parents Maria and Cornelius Donkers. We of course know him by Henry or Hank.

Hank's journey began in 1953 when he boarded a boat from Holland to Canada, landing in Ontario to start a new chapter. There, he built a family with his first wife JoAnne, welcoming children Jenn, Mark, Casey, and Joe. Hank was a hardworking man, dedicating his time to tobacco farms and the Timken factory, where he famously squished one of his fingers.

Seeking new opportunities, Hank moved to Saskatchewan, where he contributed to dam construction, honed his skills as a woodworker, embraced farming, and even ventured into making and shipping moonshine. His work ethic took him as far as the Northwest Territories, working on high-rise buildings.

With his second wife, Darlene, Hank expanded his family, lovingly referring to their children, Anneke and Aaron, as the "second batch." An avid outdoorsman, he found joy in hunting and fishing. Curling was his sport of choice, traveling across the northeast to compete in bonspiels, often as a family team.

Hank's love for work was unparalleled; spending time with him often meant rolling up your sleeves, instilling a strong work ethic in his children. He was known for misplacing his teeth—be it in the couch, the shop, or somewhere in between—and humorously sharing them with anyone curious enough to try them on. A man who never let food go to waste, his hearty appetite was legendary.

Farming was Hank's lifelong dream, and he cherished the years spent working alongside his son Aaron. In his later years, he found love again with his third wife, Jane, building a beautiful life together in the Philippines, where he spent the last decade greeting guests at their resort.

Hank leaves behind six children, numerous grandchildren, and his siblings Mary, Gertrude, Tantelena, and Leo. He now joins his siblings John, Gene, and Anne in the afterlife.

Hank's legacy is one of hard work, humour, and an unwavering love for his family and the land.

Cherished Memories is honoured to be entrusted with the care and arrangements for Mr. Henry Donkers.