The California and U.S. Rice industry extends condolences to the family and friends of Henry Kalfsbeek, who passed away Wednesday, January 24, as the result of a hunting accident.

“Henry had an amazing ability to connect with people,” said fellow California rice farmer Josh Sheppard.  “His positive, gracious, caring, and humble persona, along with his tireless work ethic, was admirable.  We are all better off for knowing Henry and having him be a part of our lives.  He will be missed dearly.”

Henry farmed in the Arbuckle area and was a pest control advisor for Grow West for the past 24 years.  He was 49 years old and had been married to his wife, Renee, for 16 years.  They have a son, Tyler (13), and a daughter, Blake (11).  Henry was a family man; his wife and kids meant everything to him.  Their life revolved around activities and vacations for the whole family.  They visited national parks, hiked, fished, hunted, and golfed together. 

A 2008 graduate of the Rice Leadership Development Program, Henry will be remembered as “a great asset to the rice industry.”  Dr. Steve Linscombe, current director of the Leadership Program, got to know Henry well over the last few years and says, “Henry facilitated leadership class trips to California.  He was such a nice guy who was so willing to share his knowledge and experience with others.”

A Rosary is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Monday, February 5 at McNary-Moore Funeral Chapel, 107 Fifth Street, Colusa. A funeral service will take place at 10 a.m. on February 6 at the Holy Cross Catholic Church, 408 Laurel Street, Arbuckle with a private burial immediately following at the Arbuckle Cemetery. A celebration of Henry’s life will follow at the Yolo Fliers Golf Course, 17980 Road 94B, Woodland.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to The Henry Kalfsbeek Family Trust in c/o Umpqua Bank, PO Box 1218, Arbuckle CA 95912; Arbuckle Golf Course or Arbuckle Fire Department.