The dairy community lost one of its most respected figures with the passing of Henry (Hank) Jacob Vanderpost on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 86 years of age. A man whose hands shaped both hooves and history, Hank’s six-decade journey through the Canadian dairy landscape leaves behind a legacy of excellence, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to improving dairy cattle across North America.
A Foundation Built on Immigrant Dreams
Hank immigrated from Holland with his family in 1952, settling at Kingsfield Farm in King City, Ontario. His journey in the dairy industry began shortly thereafter at Tannery Hill Farms, where he spent 15 formative years. This once-prominent Guernsey operation was a breeding ground for excellence in the late 60s, 70s, and early 80s8. Under the guidance of his mentor, Jim Schwartz, Hank developed the exceptional skills and deep industry knowledge that would define his remarkable career.
A Pioneer in Hoof Health and Cattle Evaluation
After establishing his own farming operations in Beeton and later Bradford, Hank pioneered a 40-year career as a professional hoof trimmer, a role that took him across Canada, the United States, and into South America. His expertise was sought by elite breeders throughout the dairy industry who recognized his unmatched skill and meticulous attention to detail.
His profound understanding of dairy cattle conformation led to his appointment as a classifier for colored breeds, evaluating cattle for the Jersey, Brown Swiss, Milking Shorthorn, and Guernsey associations. This position highlighted his exceptional eye for quality and structural excellence in dairy animals.
Breeding Excellence Under Vanhaven/Vanholm
Few could match Hank’s passion for breeding and developing dairy cattle. Under the Vanhaven/Vanholm prefixes, he pursued genetic excellence with relentless dedication and an uncompromising work ethic that inspired fellow breeders. His commitment to advancing dairy genetics contributed significantly to the improvement of Canadian dairy herds.
Curtis Clark Achievement Award: Recognition of Excellence
Winning the prestigious Curtis Clark Achievement Award stood as one of Hank’s proudest accomplishments. This coveted honor, established in 1988 by the Alberta Holstein Branch to commemorate the late Curtis Clark of Acme Holsteins3, recognized Hank as a Canadian dairy cattle exhibitor respected for his ability, sportsmanship, and dedication16. This achievement confirmed what many in the industry already knew-Hank Vanderpost had left an indelible mark on the Canadian dairy landscape.
A Life Beyond the Barn
Beloved husband to Betty Lou (née Williams) for 61 years, Hank was also a loving father to Garry (Bev), Darlene (Brian Jebb), and Joanne (Bill English). He took immense pride in his role as Grandpa to Trenton (Nichole), the late Ryan, Madison, Carter, Brenleigh, and Vanessa, and as “Grandpa Hank” to Archer and Wynn.
He was predeceased by siblings Leonard (Willie), Maria Dol (late Joe), and John (Cheryl), and is survived by brothers Peter (Carol) and Jake (late Anne).
A Legacy of Integrity and Mentorship
Hank’s approach to both cattle and people was defined by his remarkable ability to treat everyone as equals. Always making time for conversation regardless of who you were, his kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering integrity left lasting impressions throughout the dairy community. As a mentor to countless industry professionals, his thoughtful advice and words of encouragement helped shape the next generation of dairy experts.
Farewell to a Dairy Icon
Visitation will be held at Skwarchuk Funeral Home, 30 Simcoe Road, Bradford on Monday, May 5, 2025, from 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. The funeral service will take place at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2940 10th Sideroad, Bradford on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 11 a.m., with interment following at Bond Head United Church Cemetery.
The family extends special thanks to Yvonne and Pat for their care and conversation when family couldn’t be present, and to the staff and volunteers at Matthews House for their comfort, care, and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Matthews House Hospice or Bond Head United Church.
The passing of Hank Vanderpost represents not just the loss of a skilled hoof trimmer, classifier, and breeder, but the end of an era for Canadian dairy. His immigrant journey from Holland to becoming a recipient of the Curtis Clark Achievement Award embodies the very best of dairy farming tradition-hard work, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to improvement. As the industry continues to evolve, professionals would do well to remember Hank’s example of excellence, his willingness to share knowledge, and his humble approach to mastering the craft of dairy cattle management. How might we honor his legacy? Perhaps by approaching each cow with the same care, each colleague with the same respect, and each day with the same uncompromising work ethic that defined Henry Jacob Vanderpost’s remarkable life.
