Two Uniforms, One Heart: Jim Ten Hove’s Journey of Service 

Jim Ten Hove has worn many uniforms in his lifetime, but two hold special meaning: the olive green of the Canadian Armed Forces and the navy blue of The Salvation Army. For this devoted veteran and Salvationist, both represent the same calling—service to others. 

“If it wasn’t for the Canadian servicemen and women who liberated Holland in 1945, I might not be here today.”

A Life Transformed 

Born in the Netherlands just two and a half years after World War II, Jim’s story begins with gratitude. “If it wasn’t for the Canadian servicemen and women who liberated Holland in 1945, I might not be here today,” Jim reflects. This year marks the 80th anniversary of that liberation. 

At 16, Jim enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1964, beginning a 25-year military career that took him from engineering to cooking, and eventually across the globe. His service included tours in Cyprus, where he met his beloved wife, Lella, and a five-year stint in Germany with the Royal Canadian Artillery. 

But it was during his second tour in Germany in the early 1980s that Jim’s life took its most meaningful turn. “When I came to the Lord through The Salvation Army in Germany, I was a changed person—all for the better,” Jim shares. “It helped my military career and my relationships with my family, especially with my wife and kids.” 

Bridging Two Worlds of Service

“I was a soldier in military uniform, but now I’m in a different uniform—I’m in a Salvation Army uniform because now I’m serving God,” Jim tells students during school visits. 

As chair of the Greater Victoria Poppy Campaign, Jim coordinates programs including poster competitions, veteran support services, and community education. The campaign assists veterans in need—whether for housing, dental work, or specialized equipment. 

“My best friend Dave Hoffman was diagnosed with PTSD and passed away last year,” Jim shares. “We lost 160 Canadians in Afghanistan, and now we have guys coming back with PTSD. Some are committing suicide. We’ve got to remember so we don’t forget.” 

Family Legacy of Service 

Jim and Lella, married for nearly 55 years, have raised two daughters who are both educators. Their five grandchildren include a robotics engineer, psychology graduate, and biomedical engineering student. 

Every Monday night, the family gathers for “Spaghetti Night.” “We always say our grace and we’re thankful for each one of our grandchildren,” Jim explains. “We pray for them all the time.” 

Both daughters volunteer in their communities, carrying forward their parents’ example. “I hope my kids follow my example—that they realize it’s time to give back what they have received so much from.” 

The Heart of Service 

When asked what keeps drawing him back to volunteer after thousands of hours, Jim’s answer is simple: “I love to serve. I don’t do it for Jim Ten Hove. I do it for other people.” 

He recalls a meaningful moment during fundraising: “One lady told me, ‘Don’t talk to me about religion. I just want to make my donation.’ But after several visits, she asked me to tell her more, and I had a chance to witness to her. That’s when I knew—Lord, use me for your glory.” 

Speaking to a Salvation Army advisory board years ago, Jim put success in perspective: “I could stand before my Lord and say I raised $30 million, but if I could say I’ve won one soul for the kingdom, He doesn’t care about the $30 million. It’s about the souls for the kingdom.” 

A Continuing Mission 

Today, Jim and Lella teach Sunday school at Victoria Citadel, passing on their faith to the next generation. His involvement spans community dinners, Christmas kettles, packing hampers, and organizing golf tournaments. 

“If everybody did their little part, the world would be a little bit better,” Jim reflects. “I love The Salvation Army—it’s my home, it’s my church, and that’s where I serve. Whatever I can do to help, you have to give back to the community where you live.” 

As he continues his work with the Poppy Campaign and service at Victoria Citadel, Jim Ten Hove embodies the seamless connection between military and community service. His story reminds us that true service doesn’t end with retirement—it finds new expressions of the same generous heart. 

“I’m just trying to show my grandchildren and my kids that it’s not all about them,” Jim concludes. “It’s about others, too.” 

The Salvation Army British Columbia Division continues to serve communities across the province, supporting veterans, families, and individuals in need. To learn more about volunteer opportunities or support our mission, visit SalvationArmy.ca  

By Sipili Molia