Neil Vriend is remembered for his kind, thoughtful, gentle demeanor and his consistent hospitality. He was genuinely interested in others and was recognized by many as a bridge-builder between those with differing perspectives. In his ministry and life, Neil lived his calling to participate in making God’s ways known on earth, his salvation among all peoples (Ps. 67:2). He died Dec. 18 at age 93.
Born in the Netherlands, the 10th of 11 children, Neil immigrated to Canada with his family in 1939. They settled in Houston, B.C., where they farmed vegetables. Neil took a break from school to help his father on the farm and to work in the B.C. logging industry. He graduated from high school as a young adult and then studied at Calvin College (now University) and Seminary, graduating in 1962.
Neil was ordained that year and served Emo (Ont.) Christian Reformed Church; First Hamilton (Ont.) CRC; and Bethel CRC, Lacombe, Alta. In 1974 the Vriends moved to Neerlandia, Alta., where he pastored the Neerlandia CRC and Barrhead (Alta.) CRC. Neil was dedicated to serving that community for 50 years, continuing to visit and preach well into retirement. Neil nurtured relationships with people, including congregants, neighbors, friends, his wife, and their children and their families, throughout his pastoral career and through his final years.
Neil was also an artist, innovative and always enthusiastic about trying something new. Of his various creative endeavors, handcrafting beautiful chairs from locally gathered wood became a long-term passion. These chairs can be found in many homes in Alberta and beyond.
Predeceased in 2024 by his wife, Winny, and by a son-in-law, a granddaughter, and a great-granddaughter; Neil is survived by his six children; 18 grandchildren; and 36 great-grandchildren.
About the Author
A former nurse and chaplain, Janet Greidanus is a freelance news correspondent and long-time writer of the In Memoriam column for The Banner.