December 25, 1945 - February 28, 2025
In loving memory ~
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. Auke was surrounded by his beloved family in his last days, as he was in life.
Auke was born in Friesland, The Netherlands and immigrated to Canada in 1952 first to Lethbridge, Alberta, then to Leamington Ontario and finally settling in the Cowichan Valley.
Auke was predeceased by his parents Sye and Sophie Elzinga, brothers Tony Elzinga and Gerry Elzinga and his much-loved grandson Theron Keel.
Survived by his wife of 55 years Sheila, daughters Theresa (Michael) Keel, Susan (Thomas) Schaad, son Kevin (Lindsay) Elzinga. Granddaughters Neila (Max) Schaad, Tyra (Kevin) Schaad, Haylee (Tanner) Elzinga, Alicia (Justin) Sloan, Skyla Elzinga and Oakley Elzinga. Great Grand Daughter Holland Murray. Siblings Hank (Nancy), Len (Sophie), Wes (Arlea), Jannie (Roland) and Frank (Rhonda).
When Auke and Sheila were first married Auke worked at the Chemainus Sawmill living in Westholme where they built their first home. With an offer from his in-laws, Watson and Margaret Evans, he started dairy farming. He then, along with his family, built and developed Somenos Farms at the foot of Mt. Prevost, where he built their second home. When he retired, the farm was sold, and they moved to a smaller farm in Westholme (just down the road from their first home). Here he raised beef and racing pigeons. Importing some pigeons from the Netherlands, he raced locally and went on to race at the Calgary Stampede and in South Africa.
Auke was a very kind and helpful man, spending much of his time volunteering with the 4-H Dairy Club, Vimy Riding Club and Island Motocross Club. Auke worked very hard to give his family a good life of which he took great pride in.
He will always be remembered for a glove box full of Mars Bars, trips to Dairy Queen (Don't tell your mother) and a pocket full of salted black licorice. He will be missed by many. May you and Theron play crib and fish forever. Rest in Peace Dad.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 3rd, 2025, at Glenora Hall 3660 Glenora Road Duncan BC. From 2pm - 4pm.
To leave condolences and for more information, please go to evergreencremationcentre.com
