Born in Loosduinen, Holland on November 16, 1913 died peacefully at the Peace Arch Hospital in White Rock, British Columbia, Canada on February 11, 2003 after a lengthy illness. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Claire Looye (nee Toet). Together they had four sons and one daughter all currently residing in British Columbia. The extended family includes six grandchildren, three great grandchildren as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews in Canada, Holland and South Africa. Dick is also survived by two sisters in Holland, Mien and Lena. Dick was known as a true renaissance man; soldier, lifelong entrepreneur, accomplished artist, organ builder, organist and choirmaster. Dick served in both the Dutch and Allied armed forces during World War II. Educated at the Royal Academy for Fine Arts at the Hague, Holland, Dick pursued a career both as a successful commercial artist and as a painter of repute, exhibiting his works over several decades in Europe, South Africa and Canada. Many of Dick's works of art were displayed locally a number of times. Always interested in education, Dick went back to university to earn a Doctorate in applied science focusing on alleviating the world's fresh water shortage by utilizing Antarctic icebergs. Dick was a long serving member and past President of the White Rock Rotary Club. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society and/or the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The family wishes to express its special thanks to all the staff and volunteers at the third floor Weatherby Pavilion Peace Arch Hospital who made Dick's life there comfortable and assisted in his dignified death.