It is with sorrow we announce the sudden passing away at home, of our dearly beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather HENDRIK VAN ESSEN of Picture Butte, on Friday, October 2, 2009 at the age of 88 years.

Hendrik was born in Harskamp, The Netherlands in 1921 and emigrated with his wife and 8 children to Canada in 1969, and settled in the Picture Butte area, where he farmed until his retirement in 1988, and has resided until his passing.

Besides his loving wife of 54 years, Elske Van Essen, he is survived by his children; Wendy (Gerrit) Bakker, Gerrit Van Essen, Andy (Rhonda) Van Essen, Evert (Edith) Van Essen, Wilma (Kees) Oskam, Henk (Tina) Van Essen, Lourens (Peggy) Van Essen, and Elske (Fred) Von Hardenberg, as well as 41 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by 5 sisters, 3 brothers and a grandchild.

Condolences will be held between 7:00 and 8:30 pm on Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at the NETHERLANDS REFORMED CONGREGATION OF PICTURE BUTTE.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, October 7, 2009 at the NETHERLANDS REFORMED CONGREGATION OF PICTURE BUTTE, with Reverend C. Sonnevelt, officiating.

Interment to follow in the Memorial Cemetery, Picture Butte, Alberta.

Flowers are gratefully declined.