In Loving Memory of Collin Jean Wildschut
(February 24, 1948 – January 26, 2024)
Collin Jean Wildschut, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 26, 2024, at the age of 75. Born on February 24, 1948, in Jakarta, Indonesia, Collin’s life was a testament to resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to family and community.
Raised in The Hague, Netherlands, Collin’s journey took an important turn when his family moved to Arnhem at the age of 14, forming lasting connections with the Janssen family. It was during this time that he met Rita Janssen, his lifelong partner.
Passionate about soccer, Collin pursued a career as a professional player until a knee injury redirected his path. Undeterred, he joined the Dutch military, becoming one of the elite Green Berets. His service in Surinam showcased his commitment to duty.
Returning home, Collin studied dairy farming at Wageningen University. In 1975, after immigrating to Canada, he married Rita and settled in Duchess, Alberta, where he worked at the Brooks Horticultural Research Centre, contributing significantly to agricultural research. Collin played a vital role in diversifying Alberta’s crops, teaching farmers to grow special crops efficiently.
Beyond his professional life, Collin was a devoted family man. Together with Rita, they raised three children: Mark, Janine, and Dustin. In 2002, facing career changes, Collin embraced photography, becoming a well-known local photographer. His infectious sense of humor and ability to connect with people shone through, whether in a grocery store or at the Red Roof Studio, a space he and Rita built to share art, photography, and music with the community.
Collin’s legacy extends through 48 years of marriage, his children, and cherished grandchildren, Nathan and Kayla. His life embodied hard work, fearlessness in learning, independence, and kindness. His favorite song, “Imagine” by John Lennon, encapsulated his philosophy of living for today.
Collin will be dearly missed, but his spirit lives on in the memories of those he touched. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy inspire us to live with the same passion, resilience, and kindness that defined his remarkable life.
According to Collin’s wishes, a funeral will not be held. However, on February 24, 2024, the Red Roof Studio will be hosting a Celebration of Life for Collin. All are welcome, but please RSVP to redroofstudio@gmail.com by February 14th, 2024 and we will respond with details.
