Johannes Nicolaas Wittebrood, known as Jan, was born in Bergen, North Holland, June 9, 1927. He passed away at G.R. Baker Hospital December 3, 2006, after a long battle with congestive heart failure, with his family by his side.
A funeral service was held December 8, 2006 at Clayton’s Funeral Chapel, interment at Quesnel & District Municipal Cemetery and a reception tea followed at the Golden Centre.
Jan married Ann Zalm on October 21, 1949. They immigrated to Canada in 1951 and after working on farms in the lower mainland for one year, they moved to Dale Lake Road where they bought 168 acres on which they raised mainly beef. He worked for a very short while for Paul Gauthier on the Carib Theatre and then worked for 20 years at Western Plywood (Weldwood Canada).
Shortly before retiring they sold off the herd of beef cows and built seven 2 bdrm homes: the ‘Banana Belt Rentals’ which they operated for 20 years. Jan and Ann also owned and operated Dale Lake Propane for 5 years.
During his working years he made many friends and through those friendships, enjoyed many good times. In his later years, Jan enjoyed going camping in his motorhome and fishing.
Jan is deeply missed and survived by his wife of 57 years, Ann. He is also survived by his children Aleida (Dennis) Woollends, John (Gail), Ann (Rob) McKay and Dan (Debbie), 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother and one sister and predeceased by his parents and one brother, all of Bergen, N.H.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Judy Dercksen, Dr. Aziz, Good Health Pharmacy, Outreach nurses, Home Support, 2nd floor nurses, Ambulance, Kersley Fire Department, Palliative Care, Handi-Dart, Clayton’s Funeral Chapel, the Golden Center, friends and family for all their help during this difficult time. Those wishing to honor Jan’s memory may do so by donations to Palliative Care (Operating Expenses), Heart & Stroke Fund or charity of choice.