Patrick Gerrard Van Kerrebroeck

On July 13th, 2025, Patrick Van Kerrebroeck passed away.

Patrick was a devoted husband to his wife, Caroline. Their marriage spanned nearly 43 years, filled with love, laughter, and shared passions. They found great joy in gardening side by side and working together on their home and boat.

Together, they raised five children and were later blessed with nine grandchildren. Patrick was deeply involved in their lives, generously sharing his time and knowledge, whether teaching woodworking, fishing, or diving into conversations about philosophy. His curiosity, warmth, and eagerness to connect made him a cherished father and grandfather.

Patrick was also a beloved brother to his five siblings. Having immigrated from Belgium as a child, he often reflected on how much their support helped him adjust to life in Canada. He especially credited his big sister Mary and her husband Harold for the guidance and comfort they provided him and his family throughout his life.

He carried a vigour and passion for life, even through the final stages of his illness, which took much of his vitality but never broke his spirit. He loved the ocean, sailing, boats, and the natural world. Patrick was spiritual in an unconventional way, thoughtful and contemplative about the nature of life, death, and what he believed to be our place in a much greater universal intelligence.

Honeybees and poppies were two of Patrick’s favourite things, along with Bob Dylan’s music, of course.

His passing has left a hole in our hearts, but we will remember his humour and draw strength from the strength he showed.

We love you so much, Patrick. May you be at peace—hopefully sitting in a beautiful garden, surrounded by honeybees and poppies, listening to Bob Dylan.

A graveside service will be held for Patrick on July 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Cumberland Cemetery, followed by a celebration of life at his family home in Courtenay. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the BC Cancer Society.