The Bulkley Valley Christian School community mourns the death of John Boonstra (September 21, 2022).
John was a faithful participant in the life and history of BVCS. With his wife Leny, John contributed to much of the 60-year heritage of this school as a parent, grandparent and great-grandparent. We were going to count how many children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren John and Leny had at BVCS through the years. The only conclusion we could reach was that it was (and is) many.
Few school events passed without John and Leny in attendance. You’d find them at our school bazaars, concerts, fundraising events, school celebrations, grandfriends days and more. John and Leny participated in classroom projects and presentations at elementary and high school classes, discussing everything from their experiences in occupied Netherlands in WW2 to immigration to gardening and much more. Many books in our school library were sponsored by John and Leny during their grandfriends day visits. They delighted in seeing their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren still participating in the life of BVCS.
John was a man of conviction and integrity, and his grace was demonstrated in his interactions and conversations. John never had trouble showing discernment on different matters, but never ended a conversation with me without encouraging me (Tom) in my role and expressing his confidence in our institution. He spoke his mind, and did so with integrity
John’s confidence in his Saviour was evident, and while we mourn his loss we rejoice in knowing that he is now in the presence of his Lord. John is survived by his wife Leny, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We pray for them as they mourn John’s death and celebrate his life.
John and Leny’s heritage of contribution continues to impact BVCS and will do so for years.
