Four Generations, 80 Years of Service
Lijdsman Insurance celebrated a remarkable milestone as approximately 180 family members, friends, clients, former employees, insurance company partners and community members gathered at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall to mark 80 years in business and four generations of family ownership.
Founded in 1946 by Frank Lijdsman, the business was built on a foundation of hard work, personal service and strong community relationships. His son, John Lijdsman, later carried the business forward, continuing to grow the company while maintaining the trusted service clients had come to expect.
L-R: Frank Lijdsman, born June 18, 1887, died October 20, 1961. John B. Lijdsman, born February 11, 1931, died June 30, 2021, Paul Lijdsman, Danelle (Lijdsman) Layton, and Spencer Mehl.
Brothers John and Bill Van Otterloo congratulate third-generation Paul Lijdsman at the 80th Celebrations. John’s wife Marian was a long-time employee of the company.
Danelle Layton (Lijdsman) and Spencer Mehl.
L-R: Cindy Goodine, Mary-lyn Anderson, Morgan Cartwright, Samantha Duffield, Brittany Rude. Staff missing from photo: Danelle Layton (Lijdsman), Spencer Mehl, Trudy Hittel (Lijdsman).
The third generation saw Paul Lijdsman guide the business through decades of change within both the insurance industry and the community. Today, the fourth generation is represented by Danelle Layton (Lijdsman) and Spencer Mehl, who continue to build on the values established by previous generations while leading the company into the future.
Guests enjoyed appetizers catered by The Big Pig Rig, refreshments and an evening of conversation as memories were shared about the people and milestones that have shaped the business over the past eight decades. Stories reflected not only the growth of the company, but also the friendships, relationships and community connections built along the way.
During the celebration, Danelle, Spencer and Paul recognized the many dedicated staff members, past and present, whose loyalty, professionalism and hard work have contributed to the company's success. They also acknowledged the support of insurance company partners and loyal clients whose trust has helped the business thrive for 80 years.
The Lijdsman family and staff expressed sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the celebration, noting that reaching an 80-year milestone is a rare achievement made possible through generations of trust, commitment and community support.
The evening served as both a celebration of a successful family business and a tribute to the people and relationships that have made its journey possible. As Lijdsman Insurance looks ahead to its next chapter, it does so with appreciation for its history and optimism for the future.