Melenhorst, Bernardus (Ben) Hendrikus

 In Obituaries

Passed away peacefully into God’s hands on Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at the Stayner Care Centre, at the age of 88. Born in Holland on February 24, 1931, to parents Jan Melenhorst and Gerritdina (Noordman). Reunited in Heaven with his beloved daughter Nancy (1979).  Survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Toosje (nee Van der Vechte). Loving father of John (Lyn) and their children, Greg and Steven; Gary (Janet) and their children, Benjamin (Chrystal), Billy and Kristyne; Teresa (Ron Clayton) and their children, Stephanie (Dean), Lindsay, and their grand-children, Jack, Natalee, Isaac, Griffin and Nikxon; Ben (Linda) and their children, Nicholas and Nathan. Predeceased by siblings Mien, Bill, Gerardus, Riek, and Frans, and remembered by his siblings Dora, John, Dini, Marie, Herman, Gerard, Marinus, Hein, Jo, Ans, and Tonnie (and brother’s and sister’s in-law), as well as his many nieces and nephews. Ben immigrated to Canada on his own at the age of 22. After settling on a farm south of Stayner, Ben married Toosje on July 25, 1959, where they raised 5 children. Along with Toosje, teaching their children the importance of hard work and perseverance, a successful dairy farm business was built, providing a secure life for his family. Family and farming were two of Ben’s greatest joys and accomplishments. Ben was a long-time member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Stayner. He had many friends whom he enjoyed playing cards and square dancing with. Ben also enjoyed Sunday outings to the New Lowell pond in his early years, as well as trips to Springwater Park with his children and grand-children. He loved to help Toosje take care of her gardens, and shared many trips around the world with her. He will be deeply missed by all. A special thank you to the staff at the Stayner Care Centre for their compassionate care provided to Ben throughout the past 6 years, and to friends and family who visited him regularly. A private family service will be held. Ben will be laid to rest at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers as an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Sick Kid’s Hospital Foundation in Ben’s memory. To sign Ben’s Book of Memories, please visit www.carruthersdavidson.com.

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