Adrianus Johannes Zandvliet
Adrian passed away peacefully on February 10th, 2022 in his 87th year at the United Mennonite Home in Vineland.
Born in Rijpwetering in the Netherlands, he emigrated to Canada in 1957 together with his bride and love of his life, Martha to begin their lives anew.
An industrious and proud man, Dad’s work ethic as a welder was duly noted and spoken well of by his colleagues and friends at John Deere in Welland, where he worked for 35 years. His co-workers nicknamed him “The Flying Dutchman”; testament perhaps, to the diligence and pace at which he could get things done!
Adrian had a zest for life with a great love for travel and adventure. Together, he and Mom hosted fantastic parties for friends and family, often travelling with guests from overseas.
We’d be remiss, not to mention Dad’s love of music and powerful stereo equipment. Songs were often played loudly, both inside and outside our home, quite possibly to the consternation of neighbors. With an eclectic range in musical taste, anything from Opera to Oktoberfest could be heard for miles! For himself, however, Adrian had a very quiet and wry sense of humor; a comment from Dad would be spoken softly, only to be punctuated with a sly grin. An endearment shared by those who knew him and those who provided care for him.
We admired the steadfast love he had for our mother and truly held appreciation for their bond of friendship and ‘gezelligheid,’ as they could often be seen enjoying a drink together by candlelight in the evenings, listening to music.
Adrian loved his children and grandchildren, as he was dearly loved in return. Dad, you will be sorely missed, as each one of us has shared a special part in our journeys together with you! Rust zacht lieve Vader, Opa, Oom, Broer, Vriend.
Adrian is predeceased by his wife, Martha Maria, (nee, van der Hoorn). He leaves behind his children Adrian(Rosa) Zandvliet, Ellen(Larry) Collins, Wayne(Sandra) Zandvliet, Lorraine(Murray) Zandvliet/Kropf, his grandchildren Adrian Jr./AJ(Sandra) Zandvliet, Kara(Jeremy) Bunch, Jody(Mark) Legace, Lauren(Dustin) Collins/Gygli, Rachel Collins, Melanie Collins, Colin Zandvliet, Trevyn(Alysha Reece) Zandvliet, Peter(Sarah) Kropf, great grandchildren Jace and Emerson, Cash and Cohen, Ella and Hailey, Grayson, Jayden and Isaiah, Mila, Sophie and Lucas.
Predeceased by his parents Adrianus and Wilhelmina Zandvliet, survived by siblings, Corrie, Gerrie, Ria, Martin, Rikki and Enica, residing in Canada, The Netherlands, and New Zealand.
According to his wishes, Adrian’s body has been cremated. The family is planning a celebration of his life and the Interment of his, and Mom’s ashes at a future date to be announced.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Woodland and the staff of Blossom Lane at the United Mennonite Home for their excellent care, kindness and support. For those who wish to do so, donations can be made to the charity of their choosing in Adrian’s honour. To those who knew him well, a proper toast with a fine whiskey is recommended in his stead.
Online condolences may be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Adrianus Johannes Zandvliet Thursday February 10th 2022..
Death notice for the town of: FONTHILL, Province: Ontario