Andre Nyhof

Andre will be lovingly remembered by his wife Hennie, brother Dick (Alice), sons Richard (Marilyn), Eric (Dee Dee), Mark (Rose) and grandsons Brenden and Adam.

Born in Curacao, Netherlands Antilles Andre moved to Holland as a teenager to finish his schooling. Further education was delayed because of the war but eventually he was able to begin studies at Leiden University where he earned a medical degree. During his time at university he met Hennie and they were married soon after he graduated. The adventurous couple then immigrated to Canada settling in Victoria where Andre had secured a residency at the Jubilee Hospital. They loved Victoria so setting up a family practice there was an easy decision. The way doctors practiced medicine in those days was quite different from today. He delivered babies, made house calls, did surgery and worked long hours. He was a skilled doctor but his quiet caring manner is what his patients will remember and loved about him. Andre retired in 1990 at age 65.

Andre had many interests. During his university years he rowed for Leiden. Once in Canada he took up horseback riding, salmon fishing, and played tennis and squash at the Racquet Club of Victoria. He enjoyed swimming, hiking, camping and in particular he loved exploring the beautiful province of British Columbia. In 1980 he realized one of his dreams of owning a sailboat. For the next 15 years the boat was a great source of pleasure for Andre and his family. There were many good times but finally it became too physically demanding so the boat was replaced with a small travel van and they quickly embarked on the next phase of their lives. Many camping trips later they upgraded to a larger motor home that took them on trips across Canada, to northern British Columbia and to Haida Gwaii as well as to their many favorite spots closer to home.

In his later years Andre experienced a few health challenges. Most notable was a neuropathy in his lower legs that affected his ability to walk. It was a blow for such an active man but didn’t let it change the quality of his life. He dealt with his situation with remarkable ease. He never complained, kept his sense of humour, and just continued living life to its fullest. He always managed to have great style and grace in whatever he did and was forever a gentleman. He will be sorely missed but forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Family and close friends will celebrate Andre’s life at the Goward House on Saturday, April 21 from 1-4pm.