In light of recent events, we deeply appreciate the privilege of having met him in March during our sponsor visit to the Netherlands. Despite his limited mobility, he spent a pleasant morning with us and the volunteers of the Uden-based aid organization, reminiscing and discussing future challenges.
Born on October 7, 1935, in Veghel, Jas married Netje Timmers in 1959, who remained his life partner. Alongside managing their family farm, Jas was always concerned about those in need. He began his volunteer work by collecting clothes and other donations for refugees of the Yugoslav wars. In 1992, he co-founded the Caritas aid organization in Uden, and his humanitarian commitment soon connected him with the Caritas Catolica community in Oradea.
We cherish many fond memories of him. During our meetings, we experienced his generosity firsthand. Through his dedication, he gathered a large group of volunteers who, for decades, delivered aid shipments to the Diocese of Oradea, often on a monthly basis. This significantly contributed to the maintenance and development of Caritas Catolica's services. For his work, he was honored with the Dutch Royal Order of Orange-Nassau and the papal Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award.
In the memorial Mass celebrated by Canon József Rajna on May 28, 2025, we recalled his person and prayed for all our benefactors who have supported us over the years. We asked that God reward their efforts with eternal happiness. Although Jas is no longer among us, his work lives on in the foundation he established, which continues to operate and do good, alleviating the suffering of thousands month after month, year after year. Jas surely watches over them from above and intercedes for the continuation of this incredible work. Our sincere condolences to the grieving family!