Ronald John Huisman

Ron Huisman passed away on April 13, 2021 peacefully, yet unexpectedly, surrounded by love, in a room filled with laughter and tears with his wife Sharon and his kids by his side. This is exactly how he “wanted to go”.

Dad was born May 30, 1942 to Klaas and Annabell Huisman. He was an only child and had an idyllic childhood growing up on a large grain farm in Foremost, Alberta. Ron’s education started in a small country school in Foremost, however Christian education was important to Dad’s folks, so in grade 9 a house was purchased in Lacombe so Dad could go to CHAJA and CUC on the hilltop. Education was never a priority to our Dad. He preferred fast cars, farming and time spent with friends.

In 1962 he met and fell in love with Joanne Bruinsma. In 1963 Dad and Grandpa went in search of buying farmland in a Christian community and purchased a beautiful farm in the Beiseker Level-land area. In November of 1964 Ron and Joanne were married. They honeymooned in California and returned to Beiseker to begin their life together. Side by side our parents worked together, expanding their farm to include cattle, chickens and grain. They were embraced by their community and deep and lasting friendships began. In 1967 and 1969 they were blessed with Shawn and CherriLynn.

In 1999 Joanne passed unexpectedly. Dad then began another chapter in his life when he met Sharon Wentz. Together Dad and Sharon continued to farm. Slowly Shawn took on more farming responsibilities so Dad and Sharon could create memories and go on adventures. My Dad loved to drive. He and Sharon would often throw a bag in the Dodge and just go…..destination unknown. They put on thousands of km’s, burned thousands of gallons of diesel and wore out many Dodge trucks! As a side note, we the family were a little concerned about him when he traded his Dodge in 2020 for a Ford F150. For the record though, he was looking at a new Dodge to enjoy this summer! Dad and Sharon also wintered in Palm Springs where they enjoyed spending time with family, exploring and cruising in the convertible caddy.

In 2014 big changes were made and Dad and Sharon moved to Lacombe to officially begin retirement. They loved their new home with a view of Henner’s Lake and enjoyed hosting family and friends.

Dad is survived by his loving wife and companion Sharon; his favorite son Shawn and cherished daughter-in-law Shelley; and his favorite daughter CherriLynn. Because Dad was an only child, close friendships were formed and memories created with his brothers-in-law Ralph Bruinsma (Jane), Andrew Bruinsma (Loretta), Herman Bruinsma and John Bruinsma, and sisters-in-law Pearl Nienhuis, Gay Thurner, and Jackie Bruinsma. He was a much loved Uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

Dad was predeceased by his parents Klaas and Annabell Huisman, his wife and our Mom Joanne, brothers-in-law Willie Thurner, George Bruinsma and Cor Nienhuis and his sister-in-law Ena Bruinsma.

Dad will be remembered by his many many friends for his generous spirit and personality, his love of driving his truck, farming his land and his huge heart for his family and friends….and for barbecuing the best steak ever!

Due to the current restrictions on public gatherings, a private service is being held at this time.  A public Celebration of Ron's Life will be held when we are all able to gather together again.  Details will be announced when they are available.

Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to S.T.A.R.S..

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