Ben Wortelboer of Kamloops passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2020 at 93 years of age. He is survived by his daughter Karen Selma of Red Lake, BC, son Rudy (Michelle) of Lillooet, BC, grandchildren Erica Wortelboer and Ryan (Lisa) Wortelboer, and great grandchildren Addy, Seth and Luccia. Ben was predeceased by his wife Lucia, sisters Marietje and Mini, and brothers Rudolf, Sjef, Edo and Gerard.
He was born on September 1, 1926 in Ootmarsum, Holland. Ben and his future wife Lucy grew up in Ootmarsum during WWII. He received the Croix de Guerre from Charles de Gaulle for his efforts in aiding Allied soldiers during the war. Ben and Lucy were married on April 7, 1953 and immigrated to Canada a week later. They settled in New Westminster, where Selma and Rudy were born. He worked at a sawmill and as a custodian for the New Westminster School Board until he retired in 1977. Ben moved to his property at Red Lake and built a home. After Lucy died in 1995, he moved to Kamloops, where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends.
The family would like to offer a special thanks to Kamloops Hospice. If friends so desire, donations in Ben’s memory may be made to Hospice. A Celebration of Ben’s life will be held at a later date.
3 Tributes
Saddened to read the loss of Ben.
Audrey and I send you our prayers.
Bem lived quite a life and brought up a great family.
Youare always in our thoughts.
Thanks nice to hear from you, selma
Selma, Rudy & family: Ben was my second Dad. From the wonderful Christmas scene he put up every year (on Dublin St), learning to fish in Criss Creek and hammer nails at Red Lake, visiting him at Tweedsmuir Elementary, to sharing the early-morning peace & quiet at the old cabin — so many great memories. I’m glad he’ll be resting on the mountain. Hope to visit before long.
Dave