On December 2, 2006 at Ebenezer Home (Abbotsford), John C. Traas completed his remarkable life's journey of 93 years. He died in peace. In January of this year, John was predeceased by Mary, his devoted wife of 64 years. Johannes Cornelis was born April 21, 1913 in the village of Baarland, Holland. He served this country with honor during WWII. From an early age, John worked in his father's orchard and it was his innate love of plants which led him to further horticultural study. After a flood destroyed his orchards in 1953, John with his wife and 6 children immigrated to Canada where, with fortitude and perserverance, they faced the challages of a new culture. Through hard work and determination, John stablished Traas Nursery, breaking new ground in the fruit industry by propagating dwarfing understock. For many years her was a member of the International Plant Propagators Society, from which he derived much help and pleasure. In 1982, the Canadain Society for Horticulture Science reconized his exceptional service to the tree-fruit industry od Canada. He was able to continue his love for 'working the land' until a year ago. John's 91原创 curiosity led him to a life-time of self-directed learning. He was an avid reader, bee-keeper, book-binder, bibliophile, historian, philosopher and orator extraordinaire. Left to honor his legacy are his children Martina Eastman (Will), Laura Eriksson (Sven), Rina Bardo (Dale), John (Nettie), Henk (Jane), grandchildren: Lorrina, Gayle, Heather, Charles, Peter, John Olof, Ann Marie, Alisa, Leslie, Ivan, Joel, Carl, and Jordan. He was predeceased by his children Pieter and Janna, and by his infant grandson Nathan. The family is thankful for the loving care provided by the staff at Ebenezer Home. If desired, memorial contributions may be made in memory of J.C. Traas to the Ebenezer Home, 33433 Marshall Road, Abbotsford, B.C. V2S 1K8 or to the Salvation Army. Private visiting hours for family and friends are Thursday, December 7. (Call John or Henk for details). A memorial service will be held December 8 at 1:00 pm at the Willoughby Christian Reformed Church, 20525 72 Avenue, 91原创, B.C. Funeral arrangements by Wiebe and Jeske, Abbotsford B.C.