John Hendrik "Hank" Plaisier

John Hendrik “Hank” Plaisier was born in Leiden, Holland to Adrianus Jan and Teuntje Plaisier. When he was ten, the family packed up and moved to Edmonton, Alberta — trading windmills for winter coats.

After high school, Hank hit the road at 18 and headed out, following the sun and trying to stay one step ahead of the cold. Along the way, he found his passion (and a few good stories) working in sound with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. It was there he met his lifelong friend Harvey, who helped steer him toward the telecom industry — a move that shaped the rest of his life. His early adventures ultimately led him to Toronto, where he welcomed his daughter, Lorri.

With a move to Vancouver, BC, in 1972, Hank began a new chapter that led him to join Rauland Borg Corporation in 1979 as a salesman. It was his work on the Vancouver Courthouse that put him on the map and launched a 35-year career of building relationships, closing deals, and eventually earning his place as Vice President of Marketing and Sales. He retired with a suitcase full of frequent flyer miles — and friendships all over the map

In California, he met Victoria — the love of his life, best friend, and favorite travel companion. They married in 1986 and celebrated 39 years together this past summer. Hank’s constant travels were both a blessing and a challenge, but they always made it work. Their secret to a happy marriage? As Vicki would joke, “Five days on the road every week worked wonders!” In 1996, they settled in Scottsdale, AZ, where he could enjoy the sunshine and finally leave the cold winters behind.

He loved traveling, photography, neighborhood pubs, backyard parties, and a good game of cards (especially when he was winning). He was a devoted fan and cheered loudest for his favorite teams, the Diamondbacks, Cardinals, Edmonton Oilers, and Arizona Coyotes — teams close to his heart from both sides of the border.

Hank leaves behind his wife, Vicki Plaisier; his daughter, Lorri Roche (mother, Ann Harris); her husband, Kevin; and their two sons, Sean (Tiffani Leger) and Joseph Roche, of whom Hank was so proud. He is also survived by his four siblings — Mieke (Tony) Van Straten, Nellie (Mario, deceased) Plaisier-Levesque, John (Carol), and Stan (Debbie) Plaisier — as well as many nieces and nephews, cousins in Holland, and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

A celebration of Hank’s life will be held on March 7, 2026 in Scottsdale, giving his Canadian family and friends a chance to escape the snow and share their favorite stories. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Holland Community Center, a local nonprofit that meant so much to Hank. Visit HollandCenter.org for more details.