Curt Meenderinck passed away early Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017 into God’s hands, at home and surrounded by his family, following a year-and-a-half battle with brain cancer. Curt fought the good fight, battling his cancer, put all his faith in Christ and lived each day to the fullest. For over 68 years, Curt lived, and he will be forever loved.
Curt was born on Oct. 23, 1949 to Bernard and Bertha Meenderinck. Raised on the family farm on Hampton Road east of Lynden, he learned the value of hard work and a purpose-driven life. He always recalled with a smile the arrangement with his father, Bernie: the afternoon milking shifts could be delayed until Curt returned home following high school football practice. In 1962 Bernie started Meenderinck Molasses Company, hauling molasses, and as a result, Curt spent many hours behind the wheel of a cab-over Kenworth.
After graduating from Lynden Christian High School in 1968, Curt married Darlene Huisingh on Sept. 1, 1970. In 1978 Curt and Darlene purchased Meenderinck Molasses from Bernie and Bertha. Over the years, they expanded the business to include supplying and applying products for dust control, and they also owned and operated several facilities that manufactured agricultural feeds and pet foods throughout the years. In all things, Curt had an entrepreneurial spirit, willing to assume risks with boundless energy and drive.
Curt loved people, and lived for his family and friends. As a devoted husband, loving father and doting Papa, nothing brought a sparkle to his eye quicker than spending time with his grandchildren. As a lifelong member, deacon, elder and youth group leader at First Christian Reformed Church of Lynden, he lived his faith. His passion and devotion for causes promoting Christ’s work on earth burned bright. He strongly supported youth and adult sports and agricultural organizations. He served as a former board member of Project Hope and president of the Whatcom County March of Dimes, viewing each life as precious.
Curt enjoyed hosting get-togethers at The Pond, and boating and RVing with family and friends. Curt lived life with a passion, and he embraced each day as a gift from God.
Curt was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Bertha Meenderinck; sister Sharyn Meenderinck; and nephews Ryan Hoolsema and Scott McKee.
Curt will be greatly missed by his beloved wife and soulmate, Darlene; children Justin (fiancé Bobbi Tatum) Meenderinck, Jason (Linnea) Meenderinck, Megan (Josh) Swaffield, and Darin (Jessica) Meenderinck; grandchildren Nicholas and Liam Meenderinck, Rhyce, Mikaela, Kendall, and Ty Swaffield, and Hazel and Norah Meenderinck. He is also survived by brother Mervyn (Penny) Meenderinck and twin sister Connie (Rich) Hoolsema, and a great many nieces, nephews and friends.
The family has requested that donations be made to the Project Hope Food Bank, Christian Hope Association, 205 South B.C. Ave., Suite 117, Lynden, WA 98264; and BLAST Glioblastoma, 2383 S. Main St., Suite D-106, Akron, OH 44319.
We are so grateful for all the special people God put into our lives throughout this incredible journey. We were blessed far more than you can imagine. We would like to thank the caregivers, family and friends for all of their compassionate loving care for Curt and all their words of encouragement. We thank God for all his angels guiding and protecting us. To God be the glory!
You are invited to join family and friends for an 11 a.m. memorial service on Friday, Nov. 17, in First Christian Reformed Church of Lynden, with Pastor Robert Woodyard officiating. A private family burial preceded in Monumenta Cemetery.
Please share your condolences and memories in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Lynden.
