Louis Kornelius

In loving memory of Louis Kornelius

Louis was born in Musselkanal, the Netherlands to Doewe and Harriet Kornelius.  After the war, the family immigrated to Canada leaving Holland via the Volendam in 1951. From Halifax, the family took the train to Abbotsford BC, and moved to different homes in Abbotsford, Fort Langley, and Ladner before settling in Chilliwack on a farm on McGuire Road in 1964.   Louis went to school and completed grade 8 before beginning to assist the family by working.

Louis met Theresa at a youth event in Ladner, and after a long-distance courtship they were married on July 17, 1965 in Port Alberni, BC.  After their marriage they moved to Chilliwack, buying their first farm in 1972 where they raised their four daughters.   Louis loved the life of a farmer, especially working together with his children, and later his grandchildren.  He was active in the church, serving numerous terms as a deacon, volunteering as an usher, and loved singing and participating in the church choir.  Louis had a strong love for Christian education, and that connection with Chilliwack Christian School led to the addition of twin boys to the family for a few years – Jason and Jon Burchart.   He enjoyed spending time with friends and family, playing cards, travelling, gardening, biking, and welcoming people to his home.

Louis was a devoted father and took great pleasure in watching his children grow up and begin families of their own. He loved the addition of grandchildren and great grandchildren, and they quickly became the joy of his life. Louis loved walking to the barn with grandchildren, taking them along to farm shows, having them over, and attending their school events and sporting activities.  Although a man of few words, he smiled the most when his home was filled with family.

In later years, Louis faced health challenges, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and suffered a heart attack.  He continued as a faithful caregiver and devoted husband to his wife Theresa, until she passed away in 2019.  This changed his life dramatically, but his love for his God, and his family and friends remained strong. He developed new interests and filled his days with farm walks, neighbourhood walks, gardening, reading, attending grandchildren’s sporting events, phone calls and visits with family, and daily visits with his daughters.

Louis entered Chilliwack hospital on July 9, 2021, underwent emergency surgery, and passed away peacefully in ICU, with his daughters at his side, on July 13, 2021.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”