Gustave Marcel Van De Keere

September 1, 1921 - October 15, 2017

After 96 years well lived and very much loved, Gus passed away peacefully at Fred Douglas Lodge in Winnipeg. He was born on the family farm in Prairie Grove MB to Rene and Madeleine, both of whom emigrated from Belgium and met in Manitoba. He had a happy childhood and learned many life-long lessons that would carry him into adulthood. He learned to be self-reliant and was a confident man, always ready to take on new challenges and help others.

He is predeceased by his parents; his beloved wife of 46 years, Patricia; his siblings Marie, Emiel, Regenee, Irene and Rene; his son Rene Gus; son-in-law Brian; great-grandson Codie; and his step-granddaughter Cindy.

Remaining to cherish his memory are his daughters Gladys Thompson (Ken); Adele Hay; fiancée Jo McCulley; daughter-in law Aida Riano Van De Keere; stepson Tom (Donna) Ketter; grandsons Rene Tag, Chad (Jolie), granddaughters Marcy (Pedro); Alisa (Jamie); Tina (Brian); Bryna (Kurtis); Shannon; step-grandsons Jeff (Christine); William (Sasha) and Miguel (Missy); 22 great-grandchildren, a number that astounded him; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In 1955, Gus moved to B.C., making numerous trips back to Winnipeg to visit family and friends. In 2009 he returned to Winnipeg to be closer to his daughters. At age 91 he felt immense joy when he met Jo McCulley at his residence, Amber Meadow, and she and he enjoyed many happy times together.

The family thanks the staff of Golden West Personal Care Home and Fred Douglas Lodge for their respectful and compassionate care over the past 21 months.

A celebration of Gus' life will be held at Atlantic-Garden City United Church, 725 Atlantic Ave. at Arlington St., on Thursday, November 2, 2017, 1:30 p.m. Elevator access is available.

Cremation has taken place and burial will be in Kelowna at a later date. In lieu of flowers, for those wishing to honour Gus' memory, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer Society or the Heart & Stroke Association. .