In 1958, at the age of 23, Herb Van Dam moved from the Netherlands to Canada. He immigrated here with very few possessions, knowing no English, with the love of his life by his side, his wife Maria (van Beers). Together they settled in the area, learned English, found work and shared 67 years of loving unity. They were blessed with 5 children in 6 years, Marilyn Reid (Joseph), Ronald (Barbara), Lillian Crane (Mark), Edward (Jackie Kuhn) and Michael (Carleen). Herb was extremely proud of all of his children, and his 18 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren brought ‘Opa’ great joy.
Herb was a plumber by trade and an artist at heart. His integrity and exceptional work ethic earned him respect in his field of plumbing. His creative side allowed him to become skilled in jewelry making, metalworks, marquetry and wood working, furniture building and he created lovely stained glass lamps and windows. He embraced computers at age 58, was self taught, built computers for those in need and taught seniors how to use them at the Bits and Bytes computer club. He earned community recognition and awards for this volunteer work. He loved a good challenge, could repair anything, was open-minded and read profusely including everything from the Holy Bible to Jung.
Most importantly, Herb was a man of faith, loved his God, and shared this with his family. He loved deeply, laughed loudly and most cherished was his ability to shed unashamed tears of joy, frequently brought on by music or holding his great grandchildren.
We love you Husband, Father, Brother, Uncle, Opa and Great Opa and we are all so blessed to have had you in our lives.
Donations as expressions of sympathy made to Lisaard and Innisfree Hospice, in gratitude for the great kindness, care and compassion received by staff and volunteers at Innisfree, would be appreciated.
Friends and family may visit at Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre (1001 Ottawa St. S. Kitchener) on Monday, September 26 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Blessed Sacrament RC Church (305 Laurentian Dr, Kitchener) on Tuesday, September 27 at 11:00 am with burial to follow at Williamsburg Cemetery. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.westmountfuneralchapel.com
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