Hendrikus "Henk" J. Ammerlaan

Hendrikus “Henk” J. Ammerlaan, of Florence, SC, age 68, died on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 after a valiant fight with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

Henk was born in Leiden, The Netherlands on August 31, 1952. He completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering, served in the Dutch Air Force, and moved to the United States in 1983. He worked for over 30 years as a Mechanical Engineer at DSM Nutritional Products in Kingstree, SC. 

Henk loved his family and friends, as well as flowers. He spent hours in his garden and was always passionate to share his knowledge about growing bulbs with garden clubs. He enjoyed teaching children Dutch culture and traditions, even giving annual talks at one of the local schools. Henk also enjoyed studying architecture and European cars. He indulged these passions by traveling throughout the US, Europe, and the Caribbean with his wife Sandy. Henk loved the ocean and had a special knack for finding amazing shells on long beach walks.

He is survived by his wife Sandra Gootman Ammerlaan, son Robbie (Liesl) Ammerlaan, daughter Jennifer (Dillon) Ammerlaan Smith, and sisters Marian (Kees) Schoorl and Jozé Ammerlaan.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 27, at 11 a.m. at Highland Park United Methodist Church, 1300 Second Loop Road, Florence, SC. Please wear masks and practice social distancing in this service.

Memorials can be made to Highland Park United Methodist Church or The ALS Association South Carolina Chapter, 130 Gardeners Circle, PMB 622, Johns Island, SC 29455.

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