Jackie (Jacobje) Berkenpas
February 25th, 2023
Our beloved mom Jackie (Jacobje) Berkenpas (nee Tjepkema), passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Saviour on February 25, 2023. She was predeceased by her husband Gerrit and 6 of her 7 brothers.
Jackie was born in The Netherlands on December 5, 1931; she was the only girl in a family of 8 children. In 1950 Jackie immigrated to Canada with her parents and brothers, leaving her sweetheart, Gerrit, behind. Gerrit soon followed her across the ocean, and they were married in 1953 in Alberta, where four of their children were born. They later moved to BC, and adding one more child, raised their family in Burnaby before moving to Aldergrove to experience the farm life she loved so much.
Her boundless energy and generous spirit allowed her to serve her family, church, and community in many ways. She developed a strong support network with her “church girlfriends” in her later years and we are very thankful for the support and encouragement they provided her. She was known as a vibrant prayer warrior who valued faith and family.
Jackie is survived by her five children, Sylvia (Bert), Piet (Doreen), Judy (Jim), John (Val), and Rob, as well as her brother Wes (Lena), her 16 grandchildren, and a growing number of great grandchildren.
Jackie will always be remembered for her bold faith in her Lord and Savior.
“I will sing to the Lord as long as I live. I will praise my God to my last breath.” Ps. 104:33
Through the Frisian choir I got to know Jacky. Some years ago she and Gerda Tjepkema volunteered in Abbotsford Bibles for Missions, where I also worked in the same area. Gerrit and Jacky with Syds and Gerda came to our 25th wedding Anniversary in 1980.