Nov. 16, 1915 – Nov. 5, 2008
Willem died peacefully at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital with his daughter Marjan at his side just over a week before his 93rd birthday.
Willem was born in the city of Arnhem, The Netherlands. He graduated from the School for the Applied Arts in Amsterdam and established a successful career as an independent Interior Architect.
In 1960 he decided with his wife Susan to follow his only daughter and son-in-law to Vancouver, Canada. There he found it difficult to pursue his original career.
His hobby had always been gardening. Since he was an accomplished draughtsman, he started to work for a Landscape Architect in West Vancouver. In a year he had learned enough to be able to accept a position with the local Parks Department.
He later moved to live in White Rock and became Parks Planner for Surrey where he remained until his retirement.
After the untimely death of his wife Susan, he married Phyllis, who pre-deceased him, as did his five younger brothers.
With his third wife Willy he moved to Saltspring Island and eventually to North Saanich.
Willem loved dogs and he trained and cared for several of them throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife Willy and his daughter Marjan (Theo) Meijer, his grandchildren Paul (Gina) Meijer and Yolanda Meijer and his great-grandchildren Miranda, Andrew and Oliver.
No formal funeral service by request. Family and friends are invited to gather for a celebration of his life on Sunday, November 16 from 14:00 to 17:00 at the home of Marjan and Theo Meijer at Unit 52 – 1255 Wain Road, North Saanich.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Mount Newton Senior Society, 2158 Mount Newton X Rd., Saanichton, B.C., V8M 2B2 will be appreciated.