1957-2026
It’s with a heavy heart that the family of Hans Huitsing shares the news of his passing on Friday, January 9, 2026, after battling cancer.
Hans was born on September 24, 1957, to Heero and Klaassina Huitsing. He grew up with eight siblings and spent countless hours outdoors playing with kids from the neighborhood.
After finishing grade school, Hans went to Hammarskjold High. It was here that he found his love for woodworking, which led to a fulfilling career in carpentry. This is also where he formed many lifelong friendships.
Over the years, Hans worked as a carpenter for various local contractors and took immense pride in every project he completed. He briefly moved to Edmonton to finish his formal carpentry training before returning to Thunder Bay to continue his work.
From an early age, Hans showed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and loved being by the water. His many camping and fishing adventures were often enjoyed with cousins, friends, and siblings.
He also had a great time playing hockey with friends on teams like Road Runners and Stanley Hotel. A big fan of the Blue Jays, he enjoyed visiting the racetrack whenever possible.
Hans had a special bond with his nieces and nephews; they adored him just as much as he adored them.
Living simply and always showing kindness defined Hans’s life. He will be deeply missed by his siblings Willy and Mike Folkema, John Huitsing, Harry and Sylvia Huitsing, Geri and Lou Kingma, Theresa and Martin Henny, Pete Huitsing, Angela and Randy Van Kooten, Krista and Al Roote, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and their children.
He was preceded in death by his parents Heero and Klaassina Huitsing as well as sisters-in-law Joanne and Sheila.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the staff on 4 North at St Joes for their caring support during this difficult time for our brother.
A celebration of Hans’s life will take place on Friday, January 16 at 12 pm at Hope Christian Reformed Church located at 1315 Crawford Street in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Arrangements have been made through Blake Funeral Chapel at 200 May Street S.
You can leave online condolences at www. blakefuneralchapel. com
