Obituary of Bert Rammelaere

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Rammelaere: Bertrand "Bert" Leopold  -

A resident of Tilbury, Bert Rammelaere passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at the age of 90.

Born in Eede, The Netherlands, Bert was the son of the late Richard and Alida (née DeTaye) Rammelaere. In 1939, at the age of 4, Bert emigrated to Canada and moved to the family farm where he lived for over 80 years.

Beloved husband of 67 years to Margaret Rammelaere (née Buis).

Father to Sylvia Rammelaere (Anne Murphy) and Sandra Rammelaere (Pierre-Andre Tetreault).

Proud Papa to Adam Tetreault (Sarah Moysiuk) and Robin Tetreault.

Also missed by many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.

Bert farmed his entire life in Tilbury East Township. He was the Reeve of Tilbury East, the former Chair of the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, and former Chair of the Drainage Board for Chatham-Kent, as well as membership in many other farm-related committees and associations. He was chosen as Agriculturalist of the Year in 2004 and was inducted into the Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2009.

He enjoyed travelling the world with Margaret, on group tours or driving the camper to Alaska and all across Canada.

As per Bert's wishes, cremation has taken place. Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 2:00pm until the Celebration of Bert's Life at 4:00pm with Pastor Kim Cooper officiating. Private family interment to be held at St. Francis Cemetery, Tilbury at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations made in memory of Bert to VON-Chatham-Kent (Victoria Order of Nurses) or the Tilbury Information and Help Centre would be appreciated by the family. 

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040