C. William Westervelt

On December 14, 2020 at the age of 96 years, our beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, William Westervelt, went to be with his Lord.

Left to cherish his memory is daughter Ann (Renze), sons John (Janine), Henry (Blandina), Clarence (Geraldine) and daughter-in-law Lucy; 20 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. William was predeceased by our mother Rika in 2010 and our brother Martin in 2011. He will also be missed by our extended families here in Canada and in the Netherlands.

Born in the Netherlands in 1924, Dad and Mom immigrated to Canada in 1952 and settled in the Dugald area with their two eldest children. He worked hard to provide for his family. Dad was a farrier/blacksmith by trade and was an excellent welder. Dad worked in the maintenance/repair of machinery and equipment for most of his working life. In his spare time, he built horse-drawn carriages. Dad enjoyed his home and rural property on Heatherdale Road where we have wonderful memories of family gatherings. He was a gifted musician. He played in a brass band both in Holland and in Canada and frequently participated in brass ensembles for special church services. He was an avid reader and enjoyed keeping abreast of current events.

Dad loved his children and grandchildren, was interested in their lives and was proud of their achievements. He was a devoted husband who cared for our mother, Rika, during her 9 year struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease. He was a faithful member of the Transcona Christian Reformed Church and served his church in a variety of committees and leadership positions. Dad set a good example for a committed faith life that was dedicated to serving his Lord and others.

Blessed with good health, Dad was able to live independently until recently. He became a resident of Park Manor Care in March of 2020. We thank the staff of Park Manor for the care and compassion shown to Dad and to our family during this difficult time of the pandemic.

A private graveside service has taken place. A memorial service is planned on Saturday, January 30, 2021 at 11:00 am to celebrate the life of our father and grandfather. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the memorial service will be for immediate family. However, friends and extended family are welcome to join us using the WORSHIP LIVESTEAM link on the Transcona Christian Reformed Church website (transconacrc.ca).

Should friends desire, donations can be made to Park Manor Care, 301 Redonda Street, Winnipeg MB R2C 1L7.