Klaas "Red" Rienks

The family of Klaas Rienks is deeply saddened to announce his passing on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Mount Cartier Court in Revelstoke, BC at the age of 88 years.

Klaas was born on December 25, 1936 in Firdgum, Friesland, Netherlands to Gordon and Houkje Rienks.  The family moved to Saskatchewan, Canada in 1948.

He went on to become a mechanic, working various jobs and briefly operating his own Texaco service station in Whitewood, SK before moving to Revelstoke in 1970 where he worked as a heavy duty mechanic for the Department of Highways until retirement.

Klaas was well known around town for his excellent craftsmanship in making wooden toys especially his iconic red wagons and his “Mr. Klaas’ Workshop” table was a familiar sight at the local Farmers’ Market from the late 80’s until 2015.   His other ambitious accomplishments included getting his pilot’s licence and building his own airplane which he enjoyed flying.

Klaas is survived by his wife of 64 years, Maxine and his children; Lori (Roland) Rohde of Revelstoke, Jimi (Kim) Rienks of Revelstoke and Sandi (Peter) LeBrun of Calgary.  He leaves behind 5 grandchildren;  Ashley (Wayne), Logan (Shari), Eric, Marci (Tim), Stephanie (Jaydan), and 5 great grandchildren;  Harper, Presley, Evie, Kennen and Callie. Surviving siblings are; Gertie Russell and Houkje Wendt, a special sister-in-law; Lona Rienks and numerous nieces and nephews mourn his loss as well.

Klaas was predeceased by his parents; Gordon and Houkje Rienks, stepmother; Anna Rienks, sister; Isabelle Oxtoby, and brothers; Kory Rienks, Rienk Rienks and Seitse Rienks.

The family would like to sincerely thank the hard working and compassionate staff of Mt Cartier Court for their wonderful care of Klaas over the past 14 months.  Special thanks also to Dr. Kate McCarroll and Dr. Cam Molder for their excellent treatment and genuine concern for him over the years.

A Memorial service will he held on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM, at Brandon Bowers Funeral Service (301 Mackenzie Ave. Revelstoke, BC)