Henry Wiebe “Hank” VanCamp, 86, of Kent, Washington, peacefully passed away on February 4th 2021 with his wife and loved ones by his side.
Henry was born on April 6th, 1934 to Wilma and Siete VanKeimpema in Friesland, Netherlands. After graduating from high school, Henry immigrated with his family to Alberta, Canada in 1951 at the age of 17. During his first years in Canada,Henry worked a variety of jobs, including on the sugar beet farms, the timber industry, and as a hospital aid. Henry pursued a degree in mathematics at Calvin College with a minor in English.
In 1960, he met Janteane Hofman at his sister Martha and best friend Bill Devos’ wedding. Henry and Jan married in Alberta, Canada on September 2nd, 1961. Henry and Jan went on to have four children: Karen, Judy, John, and Daniel.
After graduation from Calvin College in 1962, Henry worked as a computer programmer at Boeing. Henry also proudly owned and operated an apartment complex in Renton, Washington for 24 years. Additionally, he volunteered as a mentor to inmates at the Monroe State Prison.
Henry retired from Boeing in 1993 after 31 years. While retired, Henry had time to pursue a wide array of hobbies and interests. Henry loved taking family vacations to the beach in Manzanita, Oregon, as well as visiting relatives in Canada. Henry and Jan also shared memorable trips to Costa Rica and Puerto Rico. An active person, Henry often woke up before sunrise to go to the gym or on a long run. He enjoyed taking extremely long walks on the beach; his long legs made it difficult for his young grandkids to keep up with him. He was a member of the Mountaineers, which allowed him to enjoy many hikes with friends in the greater Pacific Northwest area.
His children describe him as a stern but loving father, and his grandchildren describe him as a fun and silly grandpa. His wife Janteane describes him as “everything” to her: “loving, kind, and understanding.” He loved his wife, family, and grandchildren - especially the babies! He was passionate about education and encouraged his children to attend university, generously paying for their education. He was an avid reader and learner. He always had a book in hand and often read newspapers from across the world. Henry was known for his quick wit and for his ability to recite poetry. He even wrote his own limericks! Henry is missed by all that knew him, but our memories of him and his many contributions to his community and family will never be forgotten.
Henry was predeceased by his brother Harry and sister Emmy. He is survived by his wife Janteane VanCamp, his daughters Karen Blyton [Bruce], and Judy Jolly [James, deceased] and sons John VanCamp [Candice], and Daniel VanCamp [Amber], siblings Shirley, Ena, Martha, Joyce and Wiebe, and seven granddaughters and one grandson. A private memorial service will be held on February 27th, 2021. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Save the Children.
