"Rick" (Rintje) VanderHeide

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of Rick (Rintje) VanderHeide, age 73, on October 20, 2025, in Qualicum Beach, BC. Born on June 22, 1952, in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, Rick will be remembered for his kindness, thoughtfulness, and quiet strength. Even through his illness, he faced each day with courage and determination, and I was honored to walk beside him every step of the way.

A skilled finishing carpenter, Rick took great pride in his work and the quality he brought to every project. In 2017, we moved to Qualicum Beach to enjoy retirement. We loved our walks along the beach—on sunny days and during winter storms.

Rick enjoyed woodworking and lapidary as hobbies. He was happiest outdoors—fishing with his son and friends, panning for gold, hiking, or working in his garden. Rick and I shared 41 wonderful years together, 38 of them as husband and wife. We were a true team in every sense, supporting each other throughout our journey — whether in the kitchen entertaining family and friends or collaborating on our creative ventures. Rick loved spending time with those he cared about and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humour, hard work, and appreciation for life's simple joys.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lloyd and Alice VanderHeide, and his brother, Al VanderHeide.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Debé; his children, Michael VanderHeide (Nichole) and Tanya VanderHeide; grandchildren Hunter, Alicia, Tatiana, Nevaeh, and Zaniyah; siblings Alice Clark (Glen), Rita Jones, and Larry Adams; and many other family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Oceanside Hospice Society or a local Hospice Society of your choosing, in appreciation of the care and compassion provided for our loved ones."