February 24, 1932 - March 1, 2024
In loving memory ~
It is with profound sorrow and great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Roel in his home with his partner Mireille and daughter Susanne by his side holding his hands, on Friday, March 1st.
Mourning his passing are his best friend and partner of 26 years Mireille, daughters Rosemarie, Susanne (Ivan) and Caroline (Ken); grandchildren, Trevor (Kristin), Kevin (Rebecca), Daren, Brittany, and Jennifer; great grandchildren, Mason, Everly and Porter; step great grandchildren, Kamryn, and Matt. His siblings Herman, Willy, and Jean; many nieces and nephews; also family in the Netherlands, and many friends.
He is predeceased by his father Christian and mother Theodora; siblings Leo, Jo, Theo, Jack, Agnes, Chris, and recently his sister Marie.
Roel was born in Amsterdam and experienced the challenges of the Second World War occupation of Holland. After the war he was an apprentice as a jeweller, clock work, engraving, goldsmith, and also worked as a waiter.
He immigrated to Canada in October of 1951 with his parents Christian and Theodora and his siblings Chris, Herman, Willy, and Jean on the Ship Volendam. Once in Canada he embraced his new home with open arms. He found work where and when available. Roel worked on the Princess Victoria, Marguerite, and Elizabeth in 1953 and 1954 as a waiter. He played the guitar in a band called Wikikians Hawaiians with his brothers Jack and Herman. He also worked at a paper mill until he was lured to working the farm on Salt Spring Island with his parents for five years. He then built Cassidy Mobile Home Park while still working as a truck driver and raising cattle and garden with his family. He continued on as a builder and renovations, which he enjoyed well into his 70's.
Roel loved boating and had many adventures with his family. Playing the guitar, the piano, and dancing almost daily. His great smile and sense of humour with a twinkle in his eyes was endearing to all that met him. He loved the outdoors and did the west coast trail several times.
He will be greatly missed and forever remembered in our hearts
Join us for his Celebration of Life on Saturday, July 20th, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, at Yates Memorial Services, 1000 Allsbrook Road, Parksville, BC.
Service Details
4:00 PM