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Edwin Bakker Obituary
19 July 1958 - 19 November 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edwin (Coach Ed) Bakker, of Victoria, BC, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, passion, and creativity.
Born in The Hague, The Netherlands, Ed was the beloved son of Herman Frederick Paul Bakker and Johanna Elisabeth Bakker. He is survived by his brother Ray, sister Yvonne, niece Ashleigh and nephews Brendan, Curtis and Cameron who will cherish his memory.
A true visionary in the world of tennis, Ed dedicated much of his life to making the sport accessible to all, especially to young people. He was an integral part of the tennis community in Victoria as the longest serving tennis coach and coordinator at Oak Bay Recreation. His passion for the game was matched by his deep commitment to impacting his students' lives both on and off the court.
As a Tennis Canada Coach 3 instructor, Ed was very dedicated and disciplined in his own tennis development. He competed, and ranked, regularly in local and national tournaments and proudly represented Canada at the World Tennis Championships in Australia, showcasing both his skill and love for the sport and his country.
He was the creative force behind Wild Tennis, a unique program that connected kids with nature and tennis tactics. Through this program he not only taught tennis fundamentals but also fostered a love of the outdoors and encouraged personal growth. His work extended beyond coaching as he made a positive and lasting impact on generations of people.
Ed's legacy will live on in the hearts of all those whose lives he touched, and his memory will continue to inspire those who shared his passion for tennis, nature, and community.
We are so proud of you and miss you dearly, Ed. Love always, your many colleagues, friends and family!
A celebration of Ed's life will take place in Victoria on March 22, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre whose trauma team meant everything to Ed. For details, or wishing to offer condolences, please visit:https://www.pacificcoastcremation.com/edwin-g-p-bakker/.
Memories and Condolences
for Edwin Bakker
3 Entries
Barbara Heimlich
January 5, 2025
Condolences to his family. He was my tennis coach for a few summers. I remember him as a compassionate and dedicated coach. A very good man. We all respected him.
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Barb McLeod
January 5, 2025
So saddened to learn of Ed´s passing. He was Mr. Tennis to me. He was dedicated to tennis and the programs at OBRC. I´m sure he is playing now in the tennis bubble in the sky.
Shelley
January 5, 2025
Ed had a gift in sharing his love for tennis .... I remember he had 28 kids in Kamloops camps LOVING tennis and following his lead...he was a fun and expert coach.... In Victoria he was the heart of the Oak Bay tennis community. Always able to find humour and live life to the max. I remember he would attend numerous social events and end the nights dancing somewhere downtown. Endless energy!
I also recall a spaghetti dinner when his tennis forehand quick move sent the entire plate of spaghetti right off and onto the floor! Godspeed and a GOLDEN SET Ed .....
Shelley
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