Obituary of William Grin

Grin, William

William Grin passed away peacefully in his sleep, Friday, November 23, 2018 at the age of 94. He went to be with his Lord. 

William was born on July 3, 1924, and grew up in the village of Krabbendam in The Netherlands. He was the son of the late Jacob and Elisabeth (nee Vander Molen) Grin, and the middle child of 11 children. He was predeceased by all of his 10 siblings.

He was 16 years-old when Holland was invaded by Germany in 1940. The country was occupied for 5 years. In 1943 the proclamation came out: A person could be shot ‘at command’ for any illegal deed, all radios had to be turned in, and all Dutch men between 18 and 35 had to report to the German troops. William met with his pastor to clear his conscience and he joined the underground resistance, along with thousands of others across Holland. He was determined to resist and make it difficult for the intruders. He was identified as #100, and was active until the end of World War II.

William emigrated to Canada in 1947. In 1949 he returned briefly to The Netherlands and married Margaret Ann (Grietje Anna Dekker). They were happily married for 64 years before Margaret died in 2013.

He was the former President of Great Lakes Brick and Stone, a member of the United Way Board of Directors, a Rotarian and a faithful member of Grace Christian Reformed Church. He served on many Christian Education boards at the local, provincial and international level. He was also active with numerous business and brick associations, and was involved with many community endeavours throughout the years.

He was the loving father of Harry (Joan), Jack (Olga), Elizabeth (Jim) and Albert (Wilma). He will be missed by 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; and remembered by many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. 

Visitation is at the McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, ON, on Sunday, November 25, 2018 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 26, 2018 at Grace Christian Reformed Church, 255 Tweedsmuir Ave W., Chatham, with Rev. William Koopmans officiating.

Private Interment will be held at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham.

Donations in memory of William may be made to the United Way Chatham Kent or a Christian school of your choice.

Online Condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

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

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