Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
66 Entries
Jerry Mcgrath
January 7, 2021
Henry,thanks for all the good days we knew togeather with "HISTORY'S HANDFUL" for Dr. Bright of Campus Crusades...I sang..and you wrote the checks that help bring souls to Christ all over the planet. Thanks for the serene times at the 108. Laura miss seeing so many associated friends up that way.
David Bright
October 26, 2015
I knew Henry during the 70's when I worked with Block Bros. Realty. Only in my 20's, I was pretty awed by him and his brother, Arthur. I drank in their words on economic matters. But it was much later, listening to a tape of one of Henry's messages, that I heard him say a sentence that remains the most valuable: "There is a vast difference between trying our best to obey the Lord, and surrender." For this wonderful truth from a man who began to live it, I will always be grateful.
October 25, 2015
I wish the family all the best of Gods blessings at this time. I will be praying for comfort for the family
Love Dave Haugo
October 24, 2015
Our very sincere condolences to the whole family. Henry was a wonderful strong leader and visionary. Very hard working all his life with success and his faith guiding him to do wonderful things for people that were in need. I had 24 of the most wonderful, years in business at Block Bros. Realty and it will always be in my mind and heart. The world lost a great man but his maker has him now. Marshall and Trudy Cowe
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
October 24, 2015
Good memories of ministry encouragements, mutual Jesus film projects, and an executive conference in Whistler which Henry introduced with "Step into the water, wade out a little bit deeper," one of my favourite Southern Gospel songs.
Len & Marge Neufeld
Roger Melnychuk
October 24, 2015
I always remember Henry as a larger than life man, with a warm smile, big hands and a lightening quick, crushing handshake. He often got a grip on my fingers before I had a chance to properly engage hands with him, and I think he rather enjoyed seeing me squirm under his powerful greeting!
Henry was a gentle soul, and in my ministry involvement, I as well as those I worked with benefitted greatly from his insights, business experience, vision and wisdom, not to mention his generous heart. I appreciated his transparency as he worked through what it meant for him to live out his life meaningfully, how to handle God's blessings and how to invest wisely in the kingdom of God.
Henry had a heart for reaching others with the gospel, and it was a privilege to see him engage with people around the world, whether speaking publicly as a Christian businessman in Russia, sharing his personal testimony at outreaches in Mexico, setting up Jesus Film equipment in Africa, or hosting evangelistic events like Fashion on the Farm on his Langley property.
While I can only guess at how many ministries that Henry has been involved with, I know he has been a tremendous blessing in the lives of countless people. He realized during his life journey that the true measure of his life was not how much he could accumulate but rather how many people he could influence to become followers of Jesus Christ. And he has had a powerful impact upon the lives of many.
It has been a blessing and a privilege to have rubbed shoulders with this special man and to observe him living out God's call upon his life.
Thank you Henry for your example of a life well-lived!
John Tome
October 23, 2015
The first time I saw Henry was when he attended a meeting at our office with my principal, Lorne Stuart. I thought Henry looked like a blend of old Hollywood and a CEO of a Fortune 500 company. I was curious and asked Lorne's assistant about the client that was meeting with Lorne. She said that is Henry Block, you know one of the Block Bros. I remember being a bit star struck at the time. In the late 70s I had been into Block Bros. offices in Vancouver meeting with realtors and picking up the Block Bros. catalogue of listings for my parents. The Block Bros. brand was everywhere in the 70s and 80s and I had just found out that Henry was one of our clients. I was impressed.
Over the next few years I met with Henry on several occasions when Lorne was unavailable. Initially I expected Henry to be pushy and challenging, after all he and his brother had created a real estate juggernaut in Block Bros. I was pleasantly surprised as he was neither. I found him to be professional, intelligent, pragmatic, patient and wise. When Lorne passed away in 1995, I continued to work with Henry. He was a pleasure to work with. His instructions were clear. He listened carefully. He did not always agree with me but I believe he was able to focus on the big picture and massage my advice into pragmatic outcomes.
In the last few years of his life I saw Henry less frequently. He had simplified his business affairs so there was less reason for us to get together. When I did see him, it was obvious that his illness was taking a toll on him physically but he was still the Henry that I knew. He still had a beautiful knowing smile of a wise man listening intently to someone with less life experience. I will miss him and feel blessed to have known and worked with him.
Gail Purdy
October 21, 2015
I have been blessed by knowing this great man. I so appreciated his willingness to listen and share his wisdom. His life has touched me deeply.
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with the family.
Ben & Ingrid Gauer
October 21, 2015
Our sincere condolences to Laura and your entire family. It was an honour and genuine privilege to know Henry, now celebrating and embraced by his Saviour, the One he loved passionately and served wholeheartedly. Henry and Laura are a true inspiration and leave a lasting legacy in the hearts and lives of many.
David and Shauna (Aidan, Noah, Thea) Anderson
October 21, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the extended Block family. We have appreciated Henry and Laura's loving commitment, generosity, and faith. Your example of living life with purpose and joy is a tremendous witness and encouragement. May God's grace be tangible and close in this season.
BILL GRIFFITHS
BILL GRIFFITHS
October 21, 2015
The Block family: Hank was a real credit to the real estate industry - they could use more like him! Block Bros. were the best listing company in the business, but I sold a lot of those listings thru my former company, GRIFFITHS & TONNELLIER - we'll remember him in our prayers - love and God Bless... Bill Griffiths
October 21, 2015
My wife and I had the pleasure of living for several years at the beautiful 108 Ranch in the Cariboo which Henry's vision helped to create. This area continues to be a lasting legacy to Henry.
We did not have the pleasure of meeting Henry until later in his illness. His sister in law Gloria, became our very close friend at the 108.
Henry's strong personality and optimism for life were immediately evident and felt by us both..
Our heartfelt thoughts and warm wishes go out to all Henry's family for happy times ahead.
Dick and Marie Weeden ( Chilliwack, B.C. )
Bill and Lynda Elke
October 21, 2015
Our sincere thoughts to Henry's family during this time......we didn't know the family personally but.....we certainly knew of them......their involvement to community and within the Christian family left many fingerprints of cherished memories to many...Lifting you in prayer
Erich and Elsie Penner
October 20, 2015
Our condolences to you Laura and the family.
We have some fond memories of the time when you lived in Langley and we lived on 0 Ave. Henry, and you as well, have been a blessing to us and to many many others.
We know you'll miss him intensely--but what joy it is to picture him rejoicing in the Lord's presence!
Love, Erich and Elsie
ferne northcott
October 20, 2015
my sincere thoughts with the family. I was part of Bloc Bros 1972-1985
October 20, 2015
We had the pleasure of dealing with Henry on both a business level as well as a personal one.
The genuine honor and kindness he gave to both are unmatched in the world today.
The warmth in a family setting was wonderful to feel.
The overwhelming sense of sadness I felt from you Rose stayed with me all day, all I could offer was a heartfelt hug. The lose for you, John, Jackie, BJ and family must be truly devastating.
Please accept our sincere condolences. Dan and Sue Hemsworth
Bonnie & Sarah Nicholls
October 19, 2015
We had the privilege of sharing Henry's love for God's four legged creatures and enjoying the many llamas, Donkeys, Dogs he had at the family Farm. He was always such a busy man interested in all factors of life and genuinely cared for everybody and a friend to everyone he crossed paths with. Henry you will be truly missed by many. Rest in Peace and God Bless you !!!
Ananda Crouse
October 19, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with Laura and the Block Family. I feel blessed to have spent time with Mr. Block as one of his caregivers. I have many fond memories of Henry's strong, kind nature. Henry is truly an inspiration and I hold his memory close to my heart.
Don Kinnie
October 18, 2015
Henry was always an encouragement to me whether over a cup of coffee or discussing ministry. In conversation, I always knew he was a genuine listener with a great mind to provide an adequate response. To say he will be missed by our church and by so many who were moved God-ward because he lived is a great understatement.
Dan Sawatsky
October 18, 2015
Henry was immensely helpful to our family when our father died in 1966. Our mother and our family is very grateful to Henry and the entire Block family for their support and assistance. Our condolences to his family.
October 17, 2015
Our deepest condolences to you, Laura and your family on the passing of Henry.
A man of many accomplishments who was a close friend of Olaf & Lise. Kirsten cherishes the many good memories of the two families enjoying good times and trying times at the 108 as well as on the Family Farm.
May he rest in peace.
Fondly,
Hart Pfortmueller & Kirsten Hansen
October 17, 2015
Henry was a truly great Inspiration in my Life, particularily in the 15 years of my Association with Block Bros. Rlty. which were enriching in more than one way. May his legacy live on without bounds. Peter Thoss Tsawwassen
John Dyck
October 16, 2015
I met Henry when I was a young boy and he visited our family in Ecuador, and I saw first hand his great interest in missions at the time. When I arrived later to live in Canada Henry was always the jovial, generous and friendly person with whom I enjoyed some fascinating conversations. I know he continued to make an impact on the world of missions and reaching people with the gospel message. My condolences go to the Block family, whom I very much appreciate and with whom there will always be a special affinity and cherished connections!
Wayne Orser
October 15, 2015
It has been a great privilege for us to have gotten to know Henry and Laura over the course of many years. Early on in that relationship we soon discovered that Henry's great love for Jesus, his Lord and Savior, was always front and centre in his life, and that he was always seeking ways to share his testimony with others. We feel so blessed to have known him and to have participated in his bible studies and outreach activities at the farm.
Marlene & Wayne Orser
Michael Gibney
October 15, 2015
There are not enough words to describe the influence this man has had on my life, and the lives of so many others. Henry stood by me as a mentor, a prayer partner both in business and personally, and his friendship over the years impacted me in ways that are everlasting. Henry lived out his faith with passion and integrity. He exemplified grace under pressure, and a love for people that is rare.
Laura, I rejoice in the amazing legacy you and Henry created together!
Holden and Vicki Bowker
October 15, 2015
We are honoured to have known Henry and witnessed the love and passion he had for His Saviour. How comforting to know that he is now with Jesus ... walking and leaping and praising God! Our love and prayers are extended to his circle of family and friends who will miss him so.
Karen & Lionel Sanders
October 14, 2015
Sincere condolences to the family on the passing of Henry Block who was an inspiration to all that he touched. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Wm & L Bethel
October 14, 2015
A giant of a man for his beloved Saviour who impacted so many of his brothers and sisters in Christ. We remember him fondly.
Bless you Laura and the entire Block family at this time.
Bill and Lorie Bethel (London, On)
Marlene Rodgers
October 14, 2015
Wishing you, Aunt Laura, and all of Henry's loved ones, peace and comfort, and joy in the wonderful life you shared with him. Our thoughts are with you all. Love, Marlene, Franco and Julia
Yadira Leon
October 14, 2015
May our Lord bless and comfort you and your family during this time of grief. Please accept our sincere condolences. Your friends at Shields Date Garden
Vince & Lynne Taylor
October 14, 2015
What a privilege to know Henry and be part of his weekly Bible Study his compassion and love for the Lord, his steadfastness an example for us all. Blessings & comfort to all who will miss his presence
October 13, 2015
We have lost a true giant of our community. Thank you Henry for giving back so freely and for all the good works you have done. You have definitely made a difference.
Wayne and Jane Baldwin
Barry and Wendy Bowater
October 13, 2015
Henry Block was an entrepreneurial, spiritual, catalyst used by Jesus Christ to bring the gospel to millions of people around the world. His founding support for the Power to Change media campaigns are just one example, that not only touched people with the message of Christ, but were also the catalyst to train thousands of Christians to share their faith with others. We will miss the expression of his love for the Lord, his sound wisdom and especially his discernment that kept so many of us on track in helping us to be part of the fulfillment of the Great Commission.
Chris & Korinna Pequin
October 13, 2015
Our deepest sympathies to the family. Henry was such an inspiration to many of us, his love of the Lord was contagious, and his personal touch in the life of my family made a world of difference.
Marilyn Meier
October 13, 2015
Henry and Laura have been a great blessing to Power to Change. I remember Christmas celebrations in the barn! But most of all I remember a passion to make Christ known, demonstrated in the many projects you were involved in. May God comfort and encourage you, Laura and family, until you meet Henry again.
Dean & Pearl Robertson
October 13, 2015
The world has lost a great man but his legacy of sharing Christ's love with purpose, meaning and in a very personal way will stay in the hearts of those he touched. Our prayers are with Laura and family.
Paul & Ruthanne Wartman
October 13, 2015
Henry and Laura together have hosted so many groups in their home; supported so many people; and cared for so many broken people. Their passion for Jesus shaped their schedule day to day. Laura, may the peace of Christ be your strength. Henry has completed his journey and is in the presence of God.
Paul and Esther Paterson
October 12, 2015
We are reminiscing about Henry's gift of encouragement to the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ, now Power to Change Ministries. The special Christmas celebrations on the Family Farm were always a highlight for the staff and their families.
Also, Henry took personal interest in and encouraged the board and staff of Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association where our daughter, Andrea, rode horses for therapy.
I remember the cold December when Henry and Laura took warm coats to the homeless people in Vancouver. When Henry got an idea he took the lead and encouraged people to help make it happen.
Laura and family, we wish you God's comfort and peace during this time before you are united with Henry and our Lord Jesus.
Tanya Morrison
October 12, 2015
Lory, Deepest sympathies to you and your family. Tanya & Derek Morrison
Delores Starrs
October 12, 2015
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Kelly Bethune
October 12, 2015
I met Mr. Block and his wife through rehabilitation therapy sessions at their home over the last year and a half. Mr. Block emanated pride, honor, intelligence, kindness and respect despite facing daily physical challenges. I am grateful to have met him and wish him well on his journey. And I wish to express heartfelt condolences for Mrs. Block and family.
October 12, 2015
In the power of the Spirit and a joyful desire to serve the Lord, Henry and Laura shared the good news of the gospel with Chris and me more than 20 years ago. Their willingness to mentor us, to love and support us and to pray for us without judgement has radically impacted our lives forever. Not only have we grown in our faith but we have changed our hearts and our lifestyle because of their influence.
We, in turn, have shared and seen others come into the kingdom including many in our family.
It is difficult to separate Laura from Henry or Henry from Laura. Together they were a powerful team. Now our dear Henry has passed and Laura continues.
You are not alone, Laura. God walks with you and so do we. We love you and are here for you.
With gratitude, in friendship and prayer....
Judy and Chris Christopherson
October 12, 2015
PLEASE ACCEPT MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY ON THE LOST OF YOUR BELOVED HUSBAND. I KNOW WHAT A TOUGH TIME IT IS FOR THOSE WHO ARE LEFT BEHIND...BUT...JUST AS DEATH LEAVES A HEARTACHE NO ONE CAN HEAL......LOVE LEAVES A MEMORY NO ONE CAN STEAL.
CAROL JAMES...DESERT BIBLE STUDY GROUP.
Hike for Hank!
Jackie Block
October 12, 2015
October 12, 2015
October 12,2015
Whenever I would meet Mr. Block at the 108, he would always take time to shake my hand , give me a big slap on the back and converse with me.That had a big impact on me, a teenage kid struggling with growing up, and was a big part of my spiritual journey.I remember someone telling me that the harder the slap on the back the more he liked you and that made me feel good.
Now Mr. Block has received His slap on the back and it makes him feel loved.
Michel Corno, Chilliwack,British Columbia
Rick Barker
October 12, 2015
Hi Laura,
I just heard about Henry's graduation. I am sorry for your loss and envious of his gain.
Henry held a very special spot in my heart as you know because of his vision for the 108 Ranch and in particular for me even as a teenager. I have fond memories of him welcoming me gregariously as I came up those stairs in the chapel, his massive hands engulfing mine and with a big slap on the shoulder that almost knocked me over.
I told him several times over the years that I would not be doing what I am doing, pastoring a church of nearly 400 in the very chapel that he built, had it not been for him, for his heart for the Cariboo and his vision for the lost. I literally am eternally grateful.
I just wanted to bless you and let you know that Marci and I will be in Israel at the time of the service but we are with you in spirit.
Walking through the valley of the shadow of death is never easy, even when you are prepared for it. But remember you are walking through it - you do not camp out in the valley.
And we don't fear because God is with us, His rod and His staff comfort us. He is the Good Shepherd and the God of all comfort. He is with you; may you tangibly feel His embrace.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
In Jesus' love,
Rick and Marci Barker
Dwayne Buhler
October 12, 2015
The Jesus Film Project in Porto Alegre, Brazil, was launched in 1998 with a visit from Henry. His testimony and willingness to be part of an outreach to the business, political, and church leaders of the city put fuel to the fire of a unity movement that continues to this day.
Family Farm Fun!
Jackie Block
October 12, 2015
Handsome Opa!
Jackie Block
October 12, 2015
Jack Block
October 11, 2015
Growing Up With Henry,
Of the many memories that come to me about Henry takes me back to Christmas1933.
The family lived on a homestead in Saskatchewan. The ground was deeply covered in snow. Our dad built two sleds to play on the nearby hillside and painted them bright red. One for Henry and one for me. We decided to go logging. We borrowed the axe and headed into the woods. Selecting a suitable tree, we chopped it into 5 ft lengths and loaded our sleds. With some difficulty we pulled the sleds back to the woodpile and unloaded. That winter we felt very useful because we helped to keep our log house warm and comfortable.
Throughout his life, Henry made good use of his time and energy.
Jack Block
Henry and Laura in Mexico, 1991
Agustin Garduño
October 11, 2015
"Henry had a passionate heart for the lost people. He was a key person to develop the Jesus Film Minstry in Mexico in the 90s. Because of him thousands and thousands of mexican are saved and serving the Lord now." My wife Lupita and I remind him with love and gratitude." Laura, we love you and keep you in our hearts.
Darlene Poetker
October 11, 2015
Henry was a very special man! I didn't know him for long, but my late husband, James Poetker, knew him well for many years. They sang together in the Crusaders quartet and they worked together in real estate. Jim spoke very highly of Henry, noting how he was a big and powerful man who commanded everyone's attention at a meeting when he entered the room. "You could hear a pin drop!"
Jim and Henry were also 'in-laws'. It was a privilege for me to part of their special relationship. Henry and his family have been very kind to me, for which I am truly grateful. If Jim was still alive, he would definitely attend Henry's memorial. His friendship meant a lot to Jim.
So sorry for your loss. Henry leaves an amazing legacy! The world is a better place for Henry's having been here!
Rita Lenard
October 11, 2015
I had the privilege to work for Mr. Block for almost a year as one of his caregivers. He was one of those people where you can easily bond a connection without having many verbal conversations.There are something very wonderful and yet sweet while being around him. Thank you for everything, sir. Until we meet again, God be with you.
Walt & Pat Hartzell
October 11, 2015
Henry opened himself to people & welcomed them into his home & heart with the love of God. He cared about their souls. He was a leader & a very special friend. We will miss him dearly
October 11, 2015
How grateful we are for Henry's (and Laura's) involvement in our lives! We'll always remember the dinner we had with you when you, Henry, said you felt led to ask the "Dad" type of questions as we prepared to get married. We love you! Ken and Shirley Loewen (Surrey, BC)
Helen Nickel
October 11, 2015
Henry always presented a presence and was very observant when conversing with people. His question often was,"How are you doing?" Henry's response was direct and concise to what was communicated to him. In the last years he showed much appreciated for his family and also his extended family. His faith was vibrant and alive and we look forward to seeing him in glory singing the songs he loved. His spirit is now communing with God's spirit.
Gordon Hogg
October 11, 2015
Henry had incredible intellect, compassion ,values and principles - from hosting hundreds of seniors at his farm for a Christmas dinner, to helping people on our waterfront who were destitute and searching for meaning- Henry was there- responsible, devoted and demanding when he needed to be- and he seemed to know just when that was- I fondlly remember him in his wheelchair mounted with a campaign sign going to vote- the poll captain pointed out that signs were not allowed and he expressed his dismay- wonderful memories of a great leader and role model- a man now called to a greater calling.
Bob Hilton
October 11, 2015
In a lifetime one makes friends ... but he is lucky to have a handful of very special close ones. When I look at my hand i see Henry there. Thank you Henry. God Bless and keep you,
October 11, 2015
To Laura and family
Henry lived within God's grace and is now in the presence of the Lord, perfected in Christ his Saviour. We will miss his big presence in body and in spirit and look forward to the day when we are reunited.
Arthur and Lauradel Block
Anne & Walter Willms
October 11, 2015
Our second eldest brother was always someone to be admired. His friendly spirit reached out to everyone, irregardless of station, culture or creed. His desire to know God was always in the forefront. One never had a visit with him without going away having learned something. He will be sorely missed in our family.
Dean & Martha Palmer
October 11, 2015
But while he was yet afar off, his father saw him, and was moved with compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
We'll see you againg Henry Block you are just a step ahead of us, that's all.
Dean & Martha Palmer
Together with Marlena & Alejandro, Christopher & Vanya, Carlos & Lorianne, Nataniel & Cassandra, Josiah & Rosa.
Jackie Block
October 11, 2015
My Opa was a very special person. His generosity was astounding and his wit warmed your heart. I love you forever Opa.
Brian & Norma Bowen
October 11, 2015
Our memories go back to 1987 when Henry & Laura came to SWAT and asked "why should we become involved here?" Needless to say they were serious in their quest and have made a tremendous contribution in countless ways over the years. Little did we know what was to follow. We as new Christians were recipients of their ambitious desire to serve HIM, and we shall be eternally grateful for their friendship, mentorship and love. Truly it was a privilege to serve alongside and in small ways help this great SAINT ( one who was set apart ) Blessings to the family as you consider the future - we look forward to walking with you still. You all have truly helped him finished well - and honoured Henry's prayers. All our love - Brian & Norma B.
Glenn Anderson
October 11, 2015
I have enjoyed and privileged to be Henrys physician & friend for many years. Henry had always exhibited grace and courage in all the years i have known him. I've been a doctor for a long time and seen multiple thousands of patients in that time. I've been part of hundreds moving on from this life to eternity - but i've watched Henry live out his abundant life which was characterized by increasing fraility and dependance on others - but never heard a single word of complaint. Henry was full of love, charity and appreciation and it was my privilege to not only call him my patient - but more importantly - my friend. A very Godly and classy man, whom I will miss.
Showing 1 - 66 of 66 results
14831 28th Ave, Surrey, BC V4P1P3
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more