Jans, Hendrick “Henry” “Henk”
March 4, 1934 – December 4, 2024
at the age of 90 years
March 4, 1934 – December 4, 2024
at the age of 90 years
September 14, 1929 – December 2, 2024
at the age of 95 years:
Ethel Norma Clarke passed away peacefully at 95 in White Lake, B.C., concluding a life of dedication to education, family, and personal growth. Born in Rosthern, Saskatchewan to Wilhelm and Carrie Epp, she was the eldest of four siblings: John, Shirley, and Verlynn. Her early years were marked by family moves through Saskatchewan, including Nipawin in 1934 and Carrot River in 1936, where she attended Charmfield School for nine years.
After graduating from Rosthern Junior College in June 1948, Ethel joined her parents in Aldergrove, B.C. and pursued teachers training in Vancouver. Her teaching career began in September 1949 in the hamlet of Cherryville, in the Okanagan Valley. This was more than just a professional start – it was where she met her first husband, Wilham Dillman. They married on August 23, 1951 and raised six children: Carrie (Hugo), Brenda (Owen), Douglas (Patricia), Donna, Deborah (Michael), and Cheryl. Tragically, her first husband Wilham passed away in August 1974 at the young age of 43.
Ethel’s teaching journey took her to schools in Vernon, Revelstoke, and Powell River, where she would ultimately retire after 35 dedicated years. In 1976, she furthered her own education, earning a Master of Education Degree from UBC.
In 1979, Ethel married Donald Clarke, adding three more adult children to her family: Graham (Dale) and Wendy plus another grandchild. Donald was her companion for 29 years until his passing in 2008.
Retirement did not slow Ethel down. She developed remarkable skills in quilting, creating beautiful quilts that became treasured family heirlooms. Her love for music led her to participate in multiple choirs, and she was an avid concert-goer. Ethel remained intellectually engaged, volunteering at Cloverdale Elementary School to help students struggling with reading. She was an unbeatable Scrabble player and completed Crossword puzzles daily with impressive skill.
Her passion for travel was evident in the numerous trips she took with Don, exploring Europe, the Caribbean, and various destinations via cruise ships. These adventures reflected her adventurous spirit and love of discovery.
At the time of her passing, Ethel was survived by five children, two step-children, 18 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son Douglas, granddaughter Nicole, her parents, her siblings John and Shirley, and several in-laws.
A celebration of Ethel’s life will be held on May 17, 2025, at 11 am at Emmanuel Mennonite Church in Abbotsford, B.C. (3471 Clearbrook Road), with internment to follow. Refreshments will be served after the service.
June 12, 1956 – November 30, 2024
at the age of 68 years
January 10, 1939 – November 29, 2024
at the age of 85 years
December 13, 1961 – November 28, 2024
at the age of 62 years
April 21, 1931 – November 28, 2024
at the age of 93 years