“He was not great in the eyes of the world for being ultra-successful or wealthy, but instead he was great as a faithful, honorable, and dependable man of God who chose to live a simple life of service. He was a man of much love, compassion, and integrity.” These are the opening words of a eulogy for Dick Duifhuis, written by one of his sons. Dick, 86, died May 22, 2023, following a stroke.
Dick was born in Barneveld, the Netherlands. In 1949, at age 11, he immigrated with his family to Alberta, Canada. A year later they moved to Vancouver, B.C., and put down roots. Dick eventually graduated from Calvin College (now University) and Seminary, was ordained in 1967, and then served Emo (Ont.) Christian Reformed Church. Eight years later he moved to Port Alberni, B.C., to pastor Alberni Valley CRC.
Dick will be remembered for his love of God’s creation and being active in it. In Emo, he enjoyed canoeing on the Rainy River, and in Port Alberni he paddled on Sprout Lake. He also enjoyed walking, vegetable gardening, biking, hiking, and reading. Unsatisfied with bread that he could purchase, Dick ground his own whole wheat flour and baked his own bread. “We are going to miss eating his signature raisin bread: dense, heavy and delicious,” his son said.
After retiring in 1988, Dick and his wife moved to Nanaimo and became members of Christ Community CRC. He preached there occasionally and at a local seniors’ home monthly.
Predeceased by one great-grandchild, Dick is survived by Elsie, his wife of 60 years; four children and their spouses; 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
About the Author
A former nurse and chaplain, Janet Greidanus is a freelance news correspondent and long-time writer of the In Memoriam column for The Banner.
