Jacob Peter Bekker passed away peacefully on November 17, 2011, at Hardy View Lodge. He was born on December 15, 1931, at Chinook, Alberta. His early school years were spent at Ryley, Alberta. He graduated from high school at Rosthern Junior College, Rosthern, Saskatchewan. He obtained a dental degree from the University of Alberta in 1954, and began his 40 year dental practice in Grand Forks.
He was a loving husband to Marge for 56 years, and a devoted father to Geoff (Dorothy), Geordine (Simon) and Scott (Vicki). He was Papa to Justin (Heidi), Kylah (Jon), Brieanne, Tierre, Cailey, Vanessa, Graeme, Mitchell, Jacqueline and Steven, and great-grandfather to Ava and Serena. He leaves his brothers, John (Pauline), George (Pat) and sisters Anne and Betty (Waldy), sister-in-law Ruth and Joy Austin. Jacob was predeceased by his parents, his brother, David and sisters, Helen and Mary.
He enjoyed grouse hunting with his sons, golfing and curling with retirees. He was on the original board of directors of the Pines Bible Camp, treasurer of Gospel Chapel for many years and on the hospital board when the new hospital was built.
He walked to work for 40 years and in retirement he walked each day to buy a paper and do the crossword puzzle. He was a skilled but gentle and kind dentist. He was an active member of Gospel Chapel and lived out his faith. He now beholds Him, his Savior and Lord, whom he loved and served.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Pines Bible Camp, 10005 North Fork Road, Grand Forks, B.C., V0H-1H8, or Gideon’s International or Parkinson’s Society. A celebration of his life will be held on December 19, 2011, at 11 a.m., at the Gospel Chapel. Grand Forks Funeral Home was in care of arrangements.