DIRK (DICK) TONGEREN

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DIRK (DICK) van TONGEREN July 12, 1927 - November 22, 2000 After a brief illness, Dirk passed away with his loving family at his side, at Grace Hospital. Dirk was predeceased by his father and mother. He is survived and will be missed by his wife Anje of 48 years; children, Freda (Wayne Gerry), son Raymond all of Winnipeg, Joanne (Wayne Goodwin) of Calgary; brother Albert (Tina) nephews, nieces and friends. Dirk was born in Groningen, Netherlands July 12, 1927. After the war he met and married Anje Hinderika Minnes on November 22, 1952. They immigrated to Canada in 1953 and settled in Birtle, MB. In 1956 they moved to Rivers, MB where they raised their two daughters, Freda and Joanne. Dirk was an enterprising man and had many occupations to support his family. He operated several garages, Dicks White Rose, Rivers Automotive Sound and Service and Mac Van Motors. He drove a school bus and ran the local theatre as a projectionist. As a new challenge, he became an automotive teacher at Assiniboine Community College. Dirk later transferred to Winnipeg, teaching at Red River until he retired in 1992. He was also responsible for developing the first automotive class for women, teaching them how to change tires and oil. Even after retiring from teaching, Dirk was never sitting idle for long as he was always helping family, friends and neighbours. He served on many committees and boards. Some of Dirks happiest moments were spent at the van Tongeren Hideaway at Lee River where he loved visiting, fishing and playing cards with his many friends. Funeral service will be held 2:30 p.m., Saturday, November 25 at First Nation Community Church, 44 Tentler with Rev. Clifford Paul officiating. Viewing will take place prior to the service at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow in Chapel Lawn Cemetery. Special thanks to the nurses and doctors who cared for Dirk. HIS LIFE TOUCHED MANY PEOPLE IN A VERY SPECIAL WAY. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 956-2193

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 24, 2000