Obituary of Gerard Vanderveen
Vanderveen: Gerard "Jerry"
Gerard "Jerry" Vanderveen was welcomed home by his Saviour on Sunday, September 3rd at the age of 84.
Jerry was born in Groningen, The Netherlands on January 3rd, 1939 to the late Salomon and Jantje (Kornelius) Vanderveen. . He immigrated to Canada in May 1949 at the age of 10.
Beloved husband of Cecilia (Hoekstra) Vanderveen for 62 years.
Loving father of Deb (Mark) Padbury and Gerald (Kim) Vanderveen. Also missed by Fran (Ed) Waldher.
Cherished "Papa" to Haley and Rachel Padbury and "Opa" to Adriaan and Sofie Vanderveen. Also missed by Steven and Kaitlyn Bushey.
Predeceased by his grandson Anthony Vanderveen. His Brothers John (Dianne, Audrey) Vanderveen, Harry (Jean) Vanderveen, Herman Vanderveen and sister Grace Shaw.
Remembered by his brother and sister-in-laws Barb Vanderveen, Jack (Ann) Hoekstra, Shirley (Frank) Singor, Andy (late Millie) Hoekstra, Bill (Millie) Hoekstra, Tina (Peter) Schenk, Sara (late Cor), Vreugdenhill, Gerald (Regina) Hoekstra. The late Peter (Rolena) Hoekstra, William Jr (late Jean) Hoekstra, and Mickey Hoekstra.
Jerry will be missed by many neices, nephews, and friends.
Jerry was a member of Grace Christian Reformed Church. He began his mechanical apprenticeship at the age of 17. Achieving his class "A" mechanics license and worked for the Ministry of Transportation for 36 years. Upon his retirement he and Cecilia enjoyed traveling and owning their own small repair business.
Jerry loved spending time with his family and friends. He especially cherished time with his grandchildren. Jerry is the last surviving member of his family. He will be greatly missed by all.
Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Jerry are asked to consider the Intensive Care Unit at University Hospital, London or Intensive Care Unit at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham.
As per Jerry's wishes, a private burial will take place. Family and Friends are invited to join in celebrating Jerry's life at McKinlay Reception Centre 459 St Clair Street, Chatham on Saturday, September 9th from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040
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