Gerry Johannes Van Leeuwen

Van Leeuwen. Gerry J

April 1949 – July 2015

How to sum up the extraordinary accomplishments of our father, brother, husband, uncle, dear friend and business partner Gerry Van Leeuwen, who passed away on July 3, 2015.

Gerry was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands on April 30, 1949 and shortly thereafter immigrated to Canada with his family. Gerry spent most of his childhood on dairy farms in Langley and Sumas Prairie BC, where he developed a strong and diligent work ethic forming the foundation of his career and family life. Gerry was known for his gracious demeanor, humble attitude, and dignified presence. His pride was often felt by many through his firm handshake providing an example of strength and respect to everyone he touched.

Gerry was fortunate to find a soul mate and dancing partner in his wife Gail, who he met in 1980 and together they were an unparalleled team for 35 years. Life was an adventure for them and jumping in the car with the music blasting and no preselected destination was a favorite pastime.

Gerry’s 40 plus year tenure in the forestry industry took him around the world several times, which he thoroughly enjoyed. His accomplishments were vast and he was a major contributor to the industry on a global scale. Although known for his professional success, Gerry’s dedication to his family was his greatest joy. Gerry was a one of a kind role model for both his children who are fortunate to have these qualities instilled within them. Family trips were always a highlight, allowing Gerry to embrace his inner child. From Mystery trips to summers on the beach in Parksville, he always knew how to have a good time and enjoy life.

Gerry is succeeded by his wife Gail, daughter Chelsea, son Kyle, his sisters Mia Gordon (Gerry), Elli Paziuk (Gene), Jenny Popma (Eric), brother Nick Van Leeuwen (Lynn), sister in laws Linda Van Leeuwen, Joanne Van Leeuwen, Linda Greentree plus and many nieces, nephews and other extended family members. His death is preceded by his parents Jenny and Jake Van Leeuwen, brothers Jack Van Leeuwen, Co Van Leeuwen, Pat Van Leeuwen and sister Atie Vanderwerf.

- Chelsea and Kyle Van Leeuwen

Guestbook comments www.dignitymemorial.ca

From the Work Colleagues:

Gerry Van Leeuwen

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we advise that our friend and colleague, Gerry Van Leeuwen, passed away on July 3 at the age of 66.

Gerry joined WOOD MARKETS in 1998 and was a key part of the growth and success of WOOD MARKETS following his 25-year career in the sawmilling business with Interfor(Vancouver, BC).

Gerry had a passion for learning and understanding the major trends and developments in the global forest industry and was always keen to travel to see a new area of the world. He applied his many personal attributes and business skills to the wide variety of work that he conducted for many clients.

Anyone who spent time with Gerry got to hear about his wide breadth of knowledge and global perspectives from his many travels overseas. WOOD MARKETS' largest consulting projects were located in South Africa, Australia, China and Russia and Gerry was the key person in these strategic assignments.

He was particularly intrigued by Russia and conducted over 30 WOOD MARKETS' consulting projects and tours - requiring extensive travels inside Russia. Gerry became one of the world's leading experts on Siberia in terms of the status and trends in the forest industry, log processing and export potential.

He also had expertise in the overall global sawmilling business and major markets. His insights and industry knowledge yielded a unique perspective on a wide range of international topics. Gerry's ongoing contributions were invaluable, and he produced, and/or contributed to, a wide range of strategic client projects and WOOD MARKETS reports during his tenure.

Gerry was always welcoming, easy to talk to, and presented a positive outlook. He handled himself with grace and commanded great respect from those who knew him. Gerry quietly battled cancer for the last 18 months and stayed connected to the WOOD MARKETS team and all of the latest industry developments until the last few weeks. He will be missed by his own family, as well as the WOOD MARKETS family.

On behalf of

International WOOD MARKETS Group

Sincerely,

Russ Taylor, President