Obituary of Hennie van der Vlist

van der Vlist: Gerritje Hendrika "Hennie" (nee Baak)

Hennie van der Vlist passed away on January 7th at Riverview Gardens. She is survived by her loving husband, Bill van der Vlist. Wonderful mother of Anne (Brent) Webb of Chatham, Susan Hopkins of Guelph, Jenn (Chris) Halinaty of Chatham, and Mike van der Vlist of North Bay. Beloved grandmother of Melissa (Michael), Kadianne (Josh), Meghan (Andrew), Alora (Ethan), Michelle, Grace, Matthew and Charlotte. Sister to Aartje (Frank) DeVries. Sister-in-law to Tony (Isabelle) van der Vlist, Mary Whitlam, Martin (Bunny) van der Vlist, Audrey (John) Scholman, and Pete (Joy) van der Vlist. Loved by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Gerrit and Johanna Baak and her siblings Annie, Ted and George and her sisiter-in-law Annalies.

Hennie was born in Apeldoorn, Netherlands and her family moved to Canada in November 1951. She shared many fond memories growing up with her sisters and brothers in the Union/Port Stanley area, working on farms and at the golf course. In high school Hennie loved her time in the band where she played the flute. Her love of sports started in high school where she was recognized as the top athlete of the year. Throughout her life she enjoyed aerobics, bowling, curling and watching many sporting events. During her 15 year career at CIBC she also worked with her brothers at their green houses and store. This gave her time to explore her love of gardening and crafting. Her passion for camping started as a child and carried on as her own children were born. Camping was an outing Hennie looked forward to each year, with her last camping trip taking place in 2020. Hennie loved animals, especially her dogs, Rocky (Sparky and Buddy).

Family was her pride and joy, she loved them with all her heart.

We wish to extend our sincere appreciation for the care provided by the staff of Riverview Gardens and by the many doctors and hospital staff over the last 30 years in the areas of London, Windsor, Sarnia and Chatham.

Family and friends will be received at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A private family service to be held. 

Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of your choice would be graciously appreciated in lieu of flowers.

Online condolences can be shared at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040