John Smit

John Smit, 81, of rural Ferndale passed from this life to be with the Lord on Friday, May 19, 2017.  He was born July 19, 1935 near Brooten, Minnesota to Peter and Hilda (Zylstra) Smit, and grew up on his parents’ farm in that community. John graduated from Brooten High School and then completed his military service obligation in the U.S. Army.  He moved with his parents to Whatcom County in 1961.  Here John was a dairy farmer, operating a farm on Northwest Road for many years with his brother Harry. John was a faithful member of First Christian Reformed Church in Lynden where he served for a time as a deacon.  John gave many hours as a volunteer at Lynden Christian School’s paper baler and Second Chance store, as well as at other charitable organizations. John was a dear friend and mentor to his nephews, nieces, their families, and many other people to whom he extended his warm friendship and care.  He was intent on good stewardship of what he possessed, enjoying and sharing his farm, his garden, his song birds, and good music, playing hymns on the piano and organ by ear.  John had a special place in his heart for those who faced particular difficulty in life. John was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers George, Harry, and Harold, and his sister Emma Gibson.  John is survived by 19 nephews and nieces and their families; two sisters-in-law, Bertha and Revah Smit; and many cousins.  A special word of thanks is due those members of First Christian Reformed Church who faithfully transported John to dialysis three times a week for the past several years, and to the staff at Mt. Baker Kidney Center in Bellingham for their attention to John while he was under their care.  Graveside services will be held at Monumenta Cemetery in Lynden for family and friends on Wednesday, May 24 at 3:30 p.m., and a memorial service will be held Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. in First Christian Reformed Church, 1010 Front Street, Lynden, with Rev. Robert Woodyard officiating.  Gifts in John’s memory may be made to Back to God Ministries International, 1700 28th Street S.E., Grand Rapids, MI  49508.