Obituary of Fred Vandernaalt
Vandernaalt, Fred - Passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Sunday, March 3, 2024 at the age of 80. Fred was the devoted and loving husband of Toni (Reinhardus) for 56 wonderful years. Unwavering supportive father to Brian (Sarita) Vandernaalt and Jason (Julie) Vandernaalt. Attentive and ever teasing grandfather to Marley, Graham, Sully, Alex and Sami.
Fred was born in Opende, Netherlands on January 8th 1944 and immigrated to Canada in 1952, with his parents Weit and Margaret, and siblings Harry, Tena and Ellie.
Fred owned and operated a successful painting business for over 40 years, first working with his father and later with his brother Harry. He was known to his customers as a reliable, friendly, honest man who took pride in his work. Even after retirement, he could always be found helping out his boys with their home improvement needs.
Fred's love for sports and years of participation with several Chatham slow pitch and hockey teams amassed him many longtime friends. His passion for sports was not limited to his playing, as he coached in Chatham Minor hockey for many years. He always believed in giving back to the community, and was a member of the Chatham Jaycees for over 20 years helping organize many community fundraising events. In his later years he took up golf, and spent many hours in the coffee shop with his friends solving the world's problems.
Fred had an incredible memory, coupled with an infinite gift for detail. It was always enjoyable listening to him talk about his life experiences, stories of the past, and the people he knew over the years.
Above everything he did in life, Fred was a committed family man and friend to all. He was trustworthy, strong, dedicated, loyal, and kind, with a great sense of humour, an incredible work ethic, and a high level of integrity.
Please join us by dropping in for a celebration of his life, on Sunday, March 17th, 2024 from 1:00pm - 4:00 pm at the McKinlay Reception Centre, 463 St. Clair Street, Chatham. Donations made to the W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind would be appreciated by the family.
McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040
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Ridgetown: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-397
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Chatham: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-174
Nathan McKinlay is in charge of day-to-day operations in Chatham.
Jeff Mardling is in charge of day-to-day operations in Blenheim & Ridgetown.
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