May 15, 1929 - December 3, 2022
In loving memory ~
Dad passed away peacefully in Nanaimo Regional Hospital on December 3, 2022. He was predeceased by his daughter, Susan, and is survived by his wife of 70 years, Kathleen; his 4 children, Jeanie (Doyle), Arien (Jim), Willem (Helen), and Anna (Jan); his 13 grandchildren; and his 18 great-grandchildren.
Dad was born in Monster, Holland, in the Netherlands, and immigrated to Canada in 1952. He met Mom (Kathleen) in Lynn Valley where they were married and started a family. In 1965, they moved to a 20-acre farm in Hilliers. The farm was Dad's source of work and fulfillment and the family's source of joy until mid-2021.
Dad was a compassionate, honest, positive, hardworking man who was always willing to lend a hand. He was very devoted to his family, and we were incredibly blessed to have him in our lives.
We miss you deeply, Dad. Until we meet again.
In lieu of flowers, we suggest a donation to the Red Cross to assist those impacted by the conflict in the Ukraine.
Dad grew up in a war-torn country, and this kind gesture would mean a lot to him.