Han Soebagio, C.L.U. a.k.a Raden Mas Hanitjo Tjondronegoro

Born in the Hague on July 7, 1929, he passed away in Victoria, B.C. on February 21, 2017.  Han was predeceased by his brother, Kartono and his daughter, Kartini (Joyce) and is survived by his wife of 63 years, Elizabeth; daughter, Patricia; grandson, Duane; granddaughter, Stephanie (Ryan) and grandson, Nico.  He also is survived by his sisters, Kartini (Ad) and Tresnamurti (Gunther); his brother, Serdono  (Anneke) and many nieces and nephews worldwide.

Han was born in Holland, the first born of a young couple from completely different backgrounds.  His mother came from a large Dutch middle class family.  His father was born in Java, a descendant of a long line of Indonesian nobility.  Han inherited the title of Raden Mas (roughly translated as prince) from his father, but upon immigrating to Canada, dropped his title as well as the family name Tjondronegoro, for he thought it would make life simpler.

During the Second World War, Holland was occupied by the Nazi’s and Han and his family suffered many hardships, but everyone in his family survived.  After the war, his parents had another son, Serdono and daughter, Tresnamurti.

As a young man, Han went overseas to work in Indonesia for a large Dutch shipping firm.  It was there he met and married his wife.  Their first daughter, Joyce was born in Indonesia, shortly before they returned to Holland. Their second child, also a daughter, Patricia was born in Holland.

After three years in Holland, they decided to immigrate to Canada. They arrived in Toronto in 1958 with two toddlers and $400 cash in their pocket.  His enterprising spirit landed him employment after the first week in Canada.  They quickly adapted to life in their new home land and made many friends.  One of his friends, also an immigrant, came from Hungary and flew small airplanes and Han learned to fly from Andy.  Within months, he had acquired his private pilot license.

But after five years living in Toronto, they wanted to live in a place with a milder climate and decided on Victoria.  His adventurous spirit kicked in again and they packed a few belongings, bundled up the girls (it was February and bitter cold) and headed West in their VW bug.

Shortly after arriving in Victoria, Han started work with the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company.  He was ambitious and a hard worker and had a long and successful career.  One of the highlights of his career was when he, as the new Victoria district Manager, increased growth and sales power from the bottom of the list of 60 branches to the Number One branch in Canada.  He also found time to volunteer with the Optimist club and other charities.  He had many hobbies, including photography and stained glass craft and liked to travel.  He was a gifted painter and sculptor and played the piano.  He loved his music, it was a big part of his life.  Han had many friends and was always ready to extend a helping hand.  He was an all round handyman and built a complete in-law suite in his home.  During his later life, he enjoyed his three grandchildren, Duane, Stephanie and Nico and made many home movies of them.

He had a long and interesting life and will be remembered for his generous spirit and infectious laugh.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

Print Obituary