Bernard Teunissen, Jr.

Bernard Teunissen Jr., 80, went to be with the Lord on June 25, 2015. He died peacefully at home of natural causes, in the company of his faithful loving family.

He was born on October 12, 1934 in Sanborn, IA, to Bernard and Elizabeth Teunissen. He was the 6th of 7 siblings, William (deceased), Mina Meekhof (deceased), Theresa Vander Stelt (deceased), Bernice (deceased), Leona (deceased),  Betty Wigboldy and Arthur Teunissen.

Bernard married Jane Boersma on April 17, 1957 and they shared an amazing, dedicated, and Christ centered love for 58 years.

Following his graduation from Valley Christian High School in Cerritos CA, Bernard joined the army. He did his training at Ft. Ord, CA and served in Germany.

Bernard was a life long dairy farmer. This was a great source of joy and passion for him. He farmed with his family in Sanborn, IA, and moved to  Artesia, CA during the dustbowl, and eventually settled in Corona, CA. After decades of success in dairying and family leadership, he moved to retirement in Nampa, ID. He remained vigorously interested in the dairy business in Idaho, and enjoyed watching his sons thrive on their own dairies there.

His hobbies included travel, RV trips with friends and family, warming up during the winters in Indio, CA, and gardening. He grew some of the most beautiful Dahlias in his zip code, and was a master of pruning his fine roses. Visits to his children and grandchildren brought him tremendous joy.

A strong believer in the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ, he taught his children well, and constantly sought opportunities to serve his church.  A highlight of his life as a disciple was being a founding member of (then) Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Chino, CA. He will undoubtedly be remembered for his kindness and hospitality to so many, for his warm handshake, and generosity of words and resources. His current church, Crossroads of Nampa, gave him great hope in his latter years. Sunday sermons were a highlight and he was eager to share the love of Jesus at any encounter.

He served in many dairy industry related boards,including Federal Land Bank, Milk Producers Council and Class III of Ag Leadership Foundation; where he visited what was then Red China with Vice President George H. Bush. It was a true highlight in his life. He loved his country tremendously, and was genuinely concerned with current politics and culture.

Bernard was an avid writer, and penned many thoughts of gratitude and encouragement to those around him. He was generous with advice, scripture, and kindness, and will be fondly remembered even for his lovely penmanship.

Bernard is survived by his loving wife Jane, children Renae and Arthur De Jager, Bernie J and Anna Teunissen, and Frank and Leslie Teunissen. He was the grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grand children. Each child was of great importance to “Grandpa Bern” and we cherish and embrace the many gifts he relished on our family: spiritually, relationally, and physically. His selfless love and legacy of giving will continue to inspire us all.

The family would like to offer sincerest thanks and love to Anna Moreno, his precious caretaker, who was a tremendous support and comfort to him as he neared the end of his earthly journey. Encompass Hospice Care Center was also a strong pillar of support, and their kindness will not be forgotten.

“I am not my own, but belong to my faithful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

-Heidelberg Catechism

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Bernard’s life will be held on Thursday, July 2 at 11:00am at Crossroads Community Church. 4144 Amity Ave, Nampa, ID. Interment will precede the memorial service at the Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, Caldwell, ID. Services are under the direction of the Nampa Funeral Home, Yraguen Chapel, 415 12th. Ave. So. in Nampa -442-8171. An online guest book is available at www.nampafuneralhome.com.

 The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Lifeline Pregnancy Care Center, 1323 12th Ave So., Nampa,  ID 83651.

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