VANDERKOOY: Johannes “John” – passed away peacefully with family at this side on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at the Willett Hospital, Paris. John Vanderkooy of Paris and formerly of Port Rowan and Cambridge in his 91st year.
Beloved husband of the late Maria (Stavinga) Vanderkooy who predeceased him August 18, 2018. Dear father of John Vanderkooy of Hamilton, Hylkje Vanderkooy and husband Allan Arp of Saskatoon, Lauwrence Vanderkooy & wife Carol of Cambridge. Remembered by his sisters Aggie and Teatske (Elsinga)` in the Netherlands, 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
Dad left the Netherlands in September of 1954 to come to Canada after spending 2 years in the Dutch Airforce. Upon arrival in Canada dad lived in Ayr farming, learning the language and attending teachers’ college. In 1955 Maria arrived in Canada and they were married in 1956. In 1963 he began his teaching career as a welding instructor in the Adult Retraining Program in Hamilton. This was followed by 2 years teaching with the Department of Correctional Services then two more years with the Scarborough Board of Education. In 1968 an opportunity arose to be a part of the technical teaching element for Brant County Board of Education at Paris District High School. For the next 19 years dad spent teaching many students the welding trade in Paris, finishing his career in 1989 with 2 years at Brantford Collegiate Institute.
At retirement John and Maria moved to Port Rowan taking the time to relax. They spent over 20 years of the winter seasons in Florida. To keep busy they loved to take their boat out and fish for perch. At home dad spent time in his shop woodworking, gardening and socializing. Especially celebrating daily happy hours with his friends. When Maria passed John moved to Paris as his eyesight was diminishing and he could then be closer to family. Dad had many memories he loved to share with all particularly of his time teaching at Paris High School. Dad will be deeply missed by his friend of 60 years, Bev Hamill. Bev now carries the torch of the last remaining member of the Paris High School original “techie teachers.”
We would like to thank 2nd floor staff of Willet Hospital Staff for the care and compassion shown to dad. Our sincere thanks as well to Queensview Retirement Community team for their dedication.
Burial will take place at Bayview Cemetery, Port Rowan Ontario on Saturday, August 27, 2022 @ 1:00pm. We welcome all to attend and celebrate one last happy hour with dad.
In lieu of flowers donation to the CNIB would be appreciated by the family. Personal condolences can be posted at www.gffh.ca
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Jeffrey W. Glendinning Funeral Home, Port Rowan
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Johannes John VANDERKOOY 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Port Rowan, Province: Ontario