Jake Heerspink

Jake Heerspink was called home to be with the Lord after a long battle with dementia on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at the age of 85. Jake was born on September 12, 1940, in Bedum, Groningen, the Netherlands, to John and Dora (Klooster) Heerspink. The family immigrated to Canada in 1949, before settling in Whatcom County in 1952. Jake married Kathleen Heida on July 17, 1964 at Everson Christian Reformed Church. Jake was a family man who enjoyed serving his community and had a steadfast faith in Jesus Christ. He was employed by the local phone company until his retirement in 1994. During that time and into retirement, he served as a dedicated volunteer for the Lynden Fire Department for 25 years, the Lynden Chamber of Commerce, the Lynden Community Center, the Lions Club, the Lynden Police Department STARS, and held various roles within his church. He will be remembered by some as the "telephone man" or the guy who enjoyed placing American flags in Lynden for all special occasions. Jake was preceded in death by his parents, sister Teresa (Jack) Duree, and brother John (Sylvia). He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Kathleen; children Cynthia, Wayne, Jeff (Beth), and Ryan (Wendi); grandchildren Kevin (Oksana), Nathan, Abigail, Josiah, Caleb, Elia, Kaden, Carson and Kellen; great-granddaughter Emma; brother Ralph (Louann); as well as other extended family, nieces, and nephews. A memorial service will be held at Victory Christian Fellowship, (formerly Faith Reformed Church) in Lynden, on October 6, 2025 at 11:00 am. Memorial donations may be made to a favorite charity in Jake's name. "If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord." Romans 14:8. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.