Born in Berkel, ZH, The Netherlands, Rinke grew up as the eldest of eight siblings—a role that shaped his lifelong devotion to family, community, and generosity. After moving to Canada in 1952, he built a remarkable multi-decade career as an Electronic Engineering Technician & Technologist and Customer Service Manager, contributing his expertise to industry leaders such as RCA, Camco, and General Electric (GE), where he also met the love of his life, Elinor. Later, he went on to become a business consultant for various businesses, as well as becoming Chairman of the Board for the Canadian Electronic and Appliance Service Association (CEASA) and a member of the Ontario Association of Canadian Electronic Technicians and Technologists (OACETT).

A Life of Love and Open Hearts

Rinke was a profoundly devoted husband, partner, and father. He often treated Elinor "like a queen". Together, they raised three wonderful children: Alyson, Marc, and their “adopted” son, Jimmy.
Their home was famously open-hearted. Rinke embodied the phrase: “no one is left out, we build a bigger table,” inviting friends, neighbours, and even strangers to share meals, stories, and laughter around his ever-expanding kitchen. His creativity and inclusive spirit shone brightest in the kitchen, crafting dishes that reflected his boundless desire to explore food in all its complexity. His creativity also extended to numerous woodworking and DIY projects around the home, a passion he passed down to his children.

Passion, Advocacy, and Mentorship

Beyond his professional achievements, Rinke was a champion of LGBTQ+ rights, believing that love and acceptance should be universal. Rinke was also a committed mentor to countless young people who passed through his and his children’s lives, as well as co-workers and colleagues. His guidance helped shape the lives and careers of many. His lessons will continue to resonate with those who knew him.

Legacy and Survivors

Rinke’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched: the children he raised, the colleagues he inspired, the charities he supported, and the countless friends and family who gathered around his table. As we celebrate Rinke’s life, he was a living expression of the idea that we need to feed all and build a bigger table to make room for everyone. May we honour his memory by extending that invitation to all who cross our paths and were touched by his life.

He is survived by: His wife, Elinor; his daughter Alyson, his son Marc, daughter-in-law Yuko, and his “adopted” son Jimmy (and husband Bill); his grandsons Thomas and Alex; his remaining siblings across Canada, and their numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation and Memorial Service

For those who wish to pay their respects to Rinke, a Celebration of Life service will be held October 25th, 2025, from 12pm to 4pm at The Simple Alternative Funeral Centre (Meadowvale Room), located at 1535 South Gateway Road, Mississauga, Ontario. Rinke gave generously to numerous charities throughout his life, and the family requests that those who wish to honour Rinke’s memory make a donation to their favourite charity or a local food bank.