CORNELIUS (NEIL) VAN DE GRAAF -

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CORNELIUS (NEIL) VAN DE GRAAF 1931 - 2012 With great sadness we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather on February 19, 2012, at the age of 80 at the Riverview Health Centre. Neil is survived by his wife of 58 years Roza, his children, Johanna (Geoff), Emily (Kirk), Adrian (Kathy), Yvonne (Gary) and Patricia (Jeff). He leaves behind his grandchildren: Melanie, Michael, Kimberly, Daniel, Kevin, Jacqueline, TJ, Patrick, Kyle, and four great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his grandson Russell. He leaves behind two sisters and three brothers and their families in the Netherlands. He was born on March 3, 1931, in Eindhoven, Holland. He followed the love of his life Roza to Canada in November 1953. They were married November 6, 1954 and began their new life in Canada. Neil spent 23 years working for Winnipeg Transit and retired at age 60. Upon retirement Mom and Dad enjoyed a few years of travelling before Dad became ill. Neil had a very deep faith and spent many hours volunteering at Holy Cross Church in any way he was needed. He spent many years renovating their home in his spare time, taking great pride in his projects and he wasn't happy unless it was done to perfection. He also enjoyed spending time in the garage working on his woodworking projects. The highlight of his week was Sunday family dinners. His face would light up with joy whenever the grandchildren were around and he loved spending time with all of them. We extend our sincere thanks to the staff at Riverview Health Centre (3D) for all their love and care they provided for Neil throughout his extended stay. We would also like to thank their dear friend Shirley for helping both Neil and Roza. Her friendship and support throughout dad's illness is more appreciated than she will ever know. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Neil's memory to the Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba, 10-120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 9Z9 A celebration of his life will take place Friday, February 24 at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Cross Church, 252 Dubuc Street. Private family interment will take place at a later date. Condolences may be sent to www.desjardinsfuneralchapel.ca DESJARDINS 233-4949 1-888-233-4949
Publish Date: Feb 23, 2012

CORNELIUS (NEIL) VAN DE GRAAF 1931 - 2012 With great sadness we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather on February 19, 2012, at the age of 80, at the Riverview Health Centre. Long obituary notice to follow. DESJARDINS 233-4949 1-888-233-4949
Publish Date: Feb 22, 2012

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 22, 2012