Arie "Arthur" Breedveld, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord Jesus on February 26, 2025, at the age of 94 in Abbotsford, B.C.  Born on April 23, 1930, in Vancouver, B.C., Arthur enjoyed a life marked by service to his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, consummate devotion to his family, participation in and love of music, and amazement of creation.

 Born to Dutch immigrants, Art’s journey began in the heart of Vancouver, where he spent his formative years surrounded by a close-knit family. His early life set the stage for the man who would become known for his kindness, steadfast character, and heart for God. Arthur met and married the love of his life, Joan Breedveld (nee) Ashley in 1954.  The couple were devoted to one other for over 70 years. Their union was blessed with four wonderful children: Bruce Breedveld (Pauline), Brenda Tolsma (Sam), Brian Breedveld (Liz), and Melody Brown (Trevor). The family grew to include 12 grandchildren: Karen Kelt (Tyrone), Brad Breedveld (Carolyne), Brent Breedveld (Sara), Sean Breedveld (Krista), Shelley Hammersmark (Simon), Darren Breedveld (Amber), Laura Van Leeuwen (James), Travis Breedveld (Kendra), Jessica Moore (John), Gena Hennessey (Aaron), Tyrone Brown and Lyndon Brown. Art leaves a legacy of 30 great-grandchildren: Duncan, Ethan, Rachel, Joel, Nathan, Micah, Spencer, Elias, Peter, Ava, Abby, Austin, Jackson,  Elinor, Erik, Emily, Evan, Taylor, Corey, Morgan, Jesse, Jacob, Callen, Silas, Callie, Emily, Ben, Caleb, Stella, and Chloe  who knew him as Papa and for whom he prayed by name every day. He took immense joy in every moment spent with his expanding family and taught them the values of kindness, generosity, and faith by example. Arthur's work life was characterized by his career with B.C. Tel, where he was respected by his colleagues for his work ethic and integrity. He brought the same level of commitment and excellence to his role within the company as he did to every aspect of his life. Beyond his family and work, Arthur was a man of many interests including painting, his notable love for God’s creatures, a lifelong expression of music through his cornet, and an inextinguishable passion to preach the gospel of Christ. Arthur's amazing ear for music was conveyed via natural talent that enchanted many. From eight years old he played hymns on Vancouver’s downtown street-corners. Sometimes featured on the radio with his brother, Jack, he then combined talents with his wife Joan on piano, a life-long presentation of music at churches, weddings and celebrations. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he served his Lord Jesus Christ, with fervor and conviction. Arthur's preaching and committed prayer-habits impacted the lives of countless individuals. His consistent message of hope and salvation in Christ will continue for generations to come. Arthur's legacy is one of a life well-lived, full of love, joy and, peace. He will be remembered for his warm smile, his own interpretation of the Dutch language, his unwavering support for his family, his gentle spiritual guidance, and his unswerving faith. Arthur's presence will be deeply missed. However, the memories he created will be forever cherished by those who have been blessed to know him.

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