Obituary for Pieter IJff - Cowsmo

Obituary for Pieter IJff

Everyone at Cowsmo sends their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Pieter IJff.

It is with the heaviest heart that Jaqueline IJff must announce the sudden passing of her true love, soul mate and best friend of her life, Pieter IJff. Pieter passed away January 3rd, 2019, while working on his beloved farm, the place of his heart and soul. No words can describe this tragedy and the pain Jaqueline, Rob, Erik, Michael and all of Pieter’s loved ones, feel. Our hearts are broken. Pieter was born in Assendelft, The Netherlands on June 9th, 1963, to Gerrit and Nel IJff – Koomen, his early years spent there alongside his sisters, Ada and Edith.

In 1972, the family moved to the farm in Lelystad, the place where Pieter grew up to develop a deep affection and lifelong commitment to the farming way of life. Upon completion of a four year study of animal science, Pieter came home to work with his proud mom and dad. He enjoyed horse jumping and dressage, and it was through this sport that Pieter met the love of his life, Jaqueline. Lots of memories were made, many spent together with friends helping to organize big outdoor events for the youth in the community. These events became so popular that, eventually, hundreds of youth came out to have a good time. Pieter and Jaqueline’s happiness grew as they welcomed two sons, Rob and Erik.

In May, 1997, Pieter, Jaqueline, and the boys settled in Innisfail, and along with Pieter’s parents, Gerrit and Nel, they started Yff Dairy. In 1998, Michael was born, completing the family. The whole family still farms there today with their herdsman Fred, who has worked proudly alongside them for over 20 years.
Pieter had an impact on everyone he met. With his sincere and natural, genuine character, he earned the respect of others with ease, and was polite to all who crossed his path. He was a warm hearted, kind man who never judged others and was quick to lend a helping hand.

It was with great passion and pride that Pieter served as a Director for the Board of Alberta Milk, and held several committee positions.

Pieter enjoyed the outdoors; many hikes were conquered, countless family ski trips taken. Bike rides, runs, triathlons, cross country skiing, even white water rafting and caving – he loved it all.

Pieter was the best of the best and will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by his wife Jaqueline; his sons, Rob, Erik (Rael), and Michael; parents Gerrit and Nel; sisters, Ada (Marten) and Edith; and a great many friends.
A Celebration of Pieter’s life will be held at the Bowden Patterson Community Hall on Saturday, January 12, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. “In lieu of flowers” donations can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

 

Heartland Funeral Services

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