VAN VLIET, Art (Adrianus)
August 14, 1921 – July 7, 2011
It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our loving husband, father and Opa who passed away suddenly on July 7th, 2011. Art was born in Holland on August 14th, 1921. He and Corey were married on July 10th, 1946 and sadly, he passed away three days before their 65th wedding anniversary.
His adventurous spirit brought him and his young family to Canada in 1951. Art began his dairy farming career in Holland which he carried over to Richmond and then to the Comox Valley in 1964. His love of adventure took them to all corners of the world and his love of camping took them to all the corners of Canada.
He was a very true, gentle and generous man who dedicated many years to Hospice, Kiwanis and the Church. He thoroughly enjoyed all types of live theatre but music was his passion, singing in many choirs and musical theatre (Co-Val Choristers).
His greatest love was spending time with his family, especially the camping and fishing trips with his grandchildren. He lived a full, happy and selfless life and will be remembered by many for his quick smile, twinkling eyes, kind words and his incredible sense of humour.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Corey; daughters, Marianne Woodrow, Trudy (Bruce) Annand; and son Art (Janet); Grandchildren: Tony Woodrow, Teri (Jeff) Kerr, Troy (Jen) Annand, Tonya (Gary) Annand; Great Grandchildren: Aidan & Brendan Kerr, Kaylene & Travis Annand and Keanna Woodrow. He also leaves behind three sisters, a brother in-law and sister in-law and many nieces and nephews in Holland.
The family would like to thank the Ambulance Crew, the E.R. and I.C.U. staff, Dr. Gee and the neighbours for the care they gave to our father.
In lieu of flowers, it was Art’s wish that donations be made to the Local Hospice Society.
A Celebration of Art’s Life will be on Sunday August 14, 2011 at 1:00 pm at Piercy’s Funeral Home, 440 England Ave, Courtenay.