Obituary of Edward Frans Westelaken

Obituary of Edward Westelaken

WESTELAKEN: Edward (Eduard) Frans 'Ed’

Remembered as our beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Edward passed away in his 86th year, surrounded by family. Ed spent his life dedicated to his family and his faith, present for every birthday and every Sunday service possible. Ed was an active member of St. Mary's Parish in Blenheim, St. Michael's Parish in Ridgetown, St. Mary's Choir and the Knights of Columbus. He retired from Kent County Fertilizer after 33 years of service.  Hard-working, Ed shared stories and tips learned from working on the land, at the fertilizer plant, and on his many mission trips to Colombia. Ahead of his time, Ed developed skills to recycle and salvage anything, a gift he used to build many projects for others. In his humble and charitable way, he unfailingly worked to spread God’s love and his faith through visiting with people who were suffering, who felt isolated, and whose hearts were fragile. He was always genuinely interested in who people were, creating spaces where people felt comfortable sharing stories with him, and always offering a listening ear. Ed regularly participated in Hospice visits spending time with those who had little support and offering them comfort and solace. Similarly, he shared his faith and compassion by supporting a number of causes and organizations. The ALS Society, the Canadian Cancer Society, Meals on Wheels and the Terry Fox Run were a few of the causes close to Ed’s heart that he supported generously. In his faith community, Ed was dedicated to serving through ushering, eucharistic ministry and singing in the choir. Ed’s deeply rooted faith stood firm even through his toughest challenges. Particularly since his wife Anna’s death, Ed became passionate about capturing the light of God through photography. He leaves behind thousands of photos of spectacular sunsets and awe-inspiring nature scenes. Ed’s love of nature was known by all who knew him; frogs, trees, hummingbirds and sunsets were among Ed’s favourite natural phenomena.  Ed was a keen steward of creation by sharing seeds, cuttings, flowers, bulbs, and so much knowledge of his environment. Until the very end, Ed maintained his sense of humour and his love of music, continuing to make jokes and sing songs until God invited him to the heavenly choir. Ed is survived by many extended family and friends, all of whom are grateful for the time they got to spend with Ed and proud to be a part of his legacy on earth.

Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim on Thursday from 3:00 - 5:00 pm and 7:00 - 9:00 pm. Vigil Prayers will be held Thursday at 8:00 pm, followed by Knights of Columbus prayers. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary's Church, 95 Marlborough St. N., Blenheim at 11:00 am on Friday, October 5, 2018. Interment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Blenheim.

Donations made in memory of Ed to the ALS Society, Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, 519-676-3451