Obituary of C. Ries Dirksen

DIRKSEN: C. Ries. Feb 28, 1925 – Dec 4, 2012. A resident of Chatham, Ontario. Born in Holland 87 years ago, he worked for the Ministry of Transportation for 34 years. Beloved husband of Mary Ann Dirksen (nee Schmitt/Koutroulis) for 31 years. Loving father of Ries Dirksen (Michelle Amancio) of Palgrave, ON, step-daughter Stephanie (Ken) Walkerdine (nee Plank/Lauriston) of Rochester Hills, MI, step-daughter Georgina (Taea) Clarkson (nee Koutroulis) of Mississauga, ON. Grandfather to 5 step grandchildren and 12 step great grandchildren. Survived by his sister Nel Verster (nee Dirksen), brother Huib (Lien) Dirksen, and sister-in-law Christien Dirksen (nee Veen), all in Holland. Predeceased by his parents, 3 brothers and 1 sister in Holland, and his first wife of 23 years, Shirley Dirksen (nee Harris/Plank). In keeping with his wishes, no funeral service was held. Cremation has occurred, and a private burial service was held on December 8, 2012 at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham. Donations can be made in memory of Ries to the Cancer Society, Heart & Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted to: McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, Ontario. 519-351-2040