Van was a devoted and loving husband for over 67 years to Myrth. Together, they raised a family that he cherished deeply. Van was a proud and caring father to Todd (Susan), Sandra, Deanne (Jeff), Lisa, and Bill (Mary Jane). His love for his children knew no bounds. He was also a doting grandfather to 12 grandchildren: Rachel (Mat), Sarah (Mark), Kiersten (Jordan), Kurtis (Alison), Keltie, Caitlyn (Craig), Kelsey (Cam), Shannon (Darryll), Laura (Andrew), Jocelyn (Bill), Matthew (Sydney), and Michelle (McKenzie), and a great-grandfather to 9 great-grandchildren: Dean, Beau, Grayson, Emerson, Madelyn, Braxton, Kolton, Ellie, and Kaiden.
Born and raised in Milton, Van was known for his strength and athleticism. He excelled in football at Martin Street High School and was a passionate participant and coach in the Milton fastball leagues, where he continued to play until the age of 45. Van was also an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing "way up North" with his close friends.
Van was an active member of the Italian Canadian Club, where he loved playing bocce on Sundays. He also enjoyed a "quick game of golf!" always managing to finish ahead of the pack. During his retirement years, Van and Myrth spent time in Zephyrhills, Florida, where Van proudly earned the title of shuffleboard champion.
In his professional life, Van had a distinguished career in the cement and concrete industry. He joined St. Lawrence Cement Company in 1956 and rose to the position of General Manager of Central Ontario for Dufferin Concrete. A respected leader in his field, Van was also a former Board member for the Ready-Mix Concrete Association. He was especially proud of his role in key projects across Ontario, including the St. Lawrence Seaway, Sudbury’s INCO Super Chimney, Pickering Nuclear Power Plant, the Royal Bank Tower, and Phase 1 of the 407 Highway series.
Van and Myrth raised their family in Milton, where they lived for more than 60 years before moving to Guelph for over 15 years. They later made their home at the Hygate in Waterloo, where Van enjoyed a vibrant and active retirement lifestyle.
Van’s legacy will be remembered by his family, friends, and all who knew him. He was a true gentleman, with a strong moral compass, always prioritizing family, sincerity, and hard work. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering support extended to the broader community, including his contributions to local hospitals, charities, and the Catholic Diocese.
Van was a man of integrity, deeply committed to his family and his values. His love and care for those around him was felt by all, and he will be missed by many.
Out of respect for Van, who never liked to make a fuss, a visitation for family and friends will take place on Wednesday from 6:30 – 8:30 pm at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home – Hart Chapel (1099 Gordon St. Guelph), and on Thursday from 10 – 11 am with a service to follow at 11:00 am in the Funeral Home Chapel. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Grand River Hospital Foundation through the funeral home.
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