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October 20, 1931 - November 20, 2020
In loving memory of Theodorus Moonen (Opa) who passed away peacefully at his home on November 20th, 2020, with his family at his side and his favourite music playing. It was the perfect goodbye, just the way Theo had hoped it to be. He is now reunited with Mom (Oma), his beloved Annie who passed away two years earlier.
Theo was born and raised in the City of Maastricht, the Netherlands, and witnessed some of the horrors of war as a young child. It was there that he met and eventually married Annie (Nee Castermans), the love of his life, in 1953.
Seeking more opportunities and challenges, the young couple immigrated to Canada in 1954 and set roots in Regina, Saskatchewan. Theo found employment at Regina General Hospital as a plumber / steamfitter and Annie at the local Army & Navy store. The adventure had begun and after a few years Theo was looking for new opportunities and a warmer climate so convinced mom to move to Vancouver in 1957.
Theo found work with A.H. Bourdon Plumbing & Heating and a short time later they purchased their first home on Rhodes Street. Quite an accomplishment for a young man who spoke little English and possessed a limited education. Theo's sheer determination and zest for life over came these shortcomings and now, with a blossoming family he set himself a new set of goals.
He purchased a new larger home as well as the plumbing business he had previously worked for. With a growing family and a business to maintain it was a busy time for Theo, yet he always made sure there was time for family (with some gentle nudges from mom along the way).
Annual camping trips to Shuswap Lake, two European vacations, and a host of day outings to numerous venues on the mainland, the Moonen family had a lot to be thankful for.
By 1973 Theo was growing restless and looking for a new adventure. He purchased an acreage in Royston and decided to give rural living a try. It was there that he built his "Palace" in the country. Something new for Theo to sink his teeth into. Land clearing, farming, raising livestock, and a host of other projects kept him and his family busy.
Oh the stories we would tell (mostly at Dad's expense), but he took them in good stride and you could see him display a sense of pride as the stories unfolded about his trials and tribulations in learning the art of country living. The stories were always a source of entertainment for family and friends alike and we have often been told that we should write a book about dad and the incredible life he led.
Left to carry on his legacy and memories are his four sons: Peter (Shirley), Tom (Tania), Ted (Susie), Robert (Melanie), as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A special thanks to Tracie and her staff at Home Instead who provided dad with the loving and attentive care he received in his own home during the last chapter of his incredible life and journey.
We love you Dad. Give our love to Mom when you see her. Your loving family.


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