Hendrikus ‘Henny’ Wiggers

December 5, 2024

Passed away peacefully with his family near on December 5, 2024 at Lakeridge Health Oshawa.

Henny is predeceased by his wife Mia and survived by his wife Elizabeth. He is the beloved father of Robert (Michèle), John (Donna) and Connie Rechanicz (John), and stepfather of Jeffery Ross (Kristyne) and Jennifer Hamilton (Marcus). Henny was a proud Opa to Josh, Caitlin (Matt), Matthew, Jordan†, Colin, Christine, Matthias, Samuel, and Gabriel. He was also a great Opa to James & Ira. He was one of eleven children, predeceased by Truus†, John†, Henry†, Ann†, and Mia, and survived by Bernie, Bill, Al, Joanne, and Andy.

Henny’s deep love and support for his family were evident in the many ways he showed care and dedication. As a young boy, he would keep the wood-stove fire burning to keep his family warm. He also supported Canadian soldiers during and after the war years and often spoke of the challenges of those times.

Henny’s passion for woodworking began at a young age and remained with him throughout his life. He loved to show how ordinary items could be transformed into beautiful works of art, often making small wooden pieces to sell at local flea markets with his daughter and later with his wife, Elizabeth. He was trained as a cabinet maker by his elder family members, particularly an uncle who encouraged him by saying, “You are a born cabinet maker.”

Henny immigrated to Canada at the age of 32 with his wife Mia and their two sons. They were welcomed by family here and reciprocated the support. His eldest brother was pleased to have him assist in his new business, Wiggers Custom Furniture. His skill as a craftsman led him to Whitby Boat Works, where he requested that his youngest brother Andre be hired too. This led to the founding of Wiggers Custom Yachts a few years later.

He is fondly remembered by his children for the wonderful memories they created together, including camping trips and family outings. In his later years, Henny enjoyed bike rides, walks, and visits to the OSCC for lunches and activities with fellow seniors.

Henny will be lovingly remembered by his many family members and friends in North America and Europe. He will always be affectionately remembered as our Cookie Monster.

Please join the family at Armstrong Funeral Home for A Celebration of Henny’s Life on Tuesday, December 10th, 2024, at 11:00 AM in the Chapel. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM prior to the service. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Memorial donations to the OSCC or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.