Mr. William Martin Van Belle

The Lord has called home His faithful servant, William Martin (Bill) Van Belle, in his 80th year. Bill is predeceased by his loving wife, Grace, of almost 55 years. He was a loving father to Dave (Amy), Carla (Phil), Juanita (Chris), and Rob (Hettie); proud Grandfather to Reagan (Inge), Aaron (Emily), Karina, Wim, Pete, Magda, Henk (Sarah), Charlotte, Katelyn, ♰Naomi (2001), Daniel, Josh, Rachel, Reuben, Caleb, Annaliese, Thomas, and Tessa; dear brother in law to Alie, (♰Hendrik), Dick (♰Anna) and brother to Harry (♰Ada)(Rita), Gerald (Joanne), Pete (♰Weia)( Rita).

Bill was born on March 2, 1945, in Enschede, the Netherlands. He was the fourth child of Martha and William Van Belle. Bill emigrated with his family at the age of four to Canada, and they eventually settled in Bowmanville, Ontario. He achieved degrees from the University of Waterloo and the University of Guelph.

Bill met the love of his life, Grace, while living in Bowmanville. They married on August 14, 1970, and then set off on an adventurous nine-month honeymoon. In 1972, they began a new adventure when they moved to the Lower Mainland. It was here that they began their family and Van Belle Nursery. Bill was constantly dreaming up new ideas for the business and was the chief salesman in those early years. Bill also became very involved in the BC Nursery and Landscaping Association. A proud moment for Bill was hosting the Lieutenant Governor at the nursery.

Bill always enjoyed the company of his family and many friends on the backyard patio and could often be found at the barbecue with a glass of wine. Bill enjoyed changing his garden to see how the plants would grow, and he especially loved it when he was joined by his kids or grandkids in the garden. Bill and Grace combined their love of travel and business by working with Partners Worldwide.

The family is grateful for the care received from the dedicated nurses and the prayers and support of family, friends, and our church families.

A graveside service for William will be held Tuesday, July 8, 2025 from 9:00 AM at Maclure Road Mennonite Cemetery, Abbotsford, BC V2S 7W3.