Dirk H. Veenstra

Dirk Hulshoff Veenstra, 87, of Emmett, Idaho passed away peacefully April 2, 2021 with his wife by his side.

Dirk, originally from Chino, California, was born at home to Dutch immigrant parents, dairyman John Veenstra and his wife Margaret, joining older siblings Peggy and John. He was active in 4-H as a child and then participated in Young Farmers as a young adult. High school years were a happy time for Dirk and he continued to attend class reunions and stay in contact with numerous Chino classmates through the years.

After high school he served in the Army and upon discharge he returned to the family dairy. In 1961 he married Dianne Corkhill and they went on to have three children; Tony, Roger, and Gayle. The extended Veenstra family relocated to a ranch in Emmett in the Sixties and established Upper Bench Ranch, a dairy heifer replacement operation.

Dirk was a seven days a week, 365 days a year, sunup to sundown kind of farmer, but at different times over the years he made time to participate in the community through NFO, Jaycees, the Emmett Irrigation Board, and the Walter Knox Memorial Hospital Board. He was easygoing and enjoyed his friendships with fellow farmers, neighbors, and Emmett old-timers, as well as those new to the community, no matter where they hailed from, making time to chat and catch up on local news.

Prior to retirement he joined the Treasure Valley Antique Power Association. He very much enjoyed his time with TVAPA and he was in his element among the other tractor enthusiasts, competing in the fun and friendly tractor pull competitions across the Treasure Valley over the years.

He was preceded in death by his young son Tony, his parents, grandson Colton, sister Peggy, nephew Jim, and brother John. He is survived by his wife Dianne, son Roger, and daughter Gayle (Barry) Powell, as well as several nephews and nieces.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the St. Alphonsus hospital healthcare workers who all provided such sensitive and kind care to Dirk and his family. A special thank you goes out to Bob Veenstra for all his help over the last year. It meant the world to Uncle Dick.

Dirk appreciated nature and had a soft spot for animals. In memory of Dirk, please consider a donation to the local organization PAL — Pet Adoption League of Gem County, Idaho.

Private services at a later date.

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