Aleida Maria Vermeulen

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our co-founder and family matriarch, Leidy Vermeulen.

Born in the Netherlands, Leidy immigrated to Canada to marry the love of her life, Ben in 1961. Together they built a remarkable partnership – in life, in family and in business. In 1967, they founded West Bay Shipyards, laying the foundation for what would become a proud multi-generational legacy.

Leidy was the steady weight in the keel to Ben’s entrepreneurial spirit. Her strength, quiet resilience, and unwavering belief in their shared vision, shaped not only a company, but a community of people who have been part of West Bay’s story for nearly six decades.

More than anything, Leidy was devoted to her family. She raised her children with love, humour, and grace, and guided all of us with a gentleness that grounded our lives.

Leidy passed peacefully, surrounded by her family, just as she lived – held closely by those who loved her most. We will honour her legacy in the work we continue, in the stories we share, and in the values she instilled in all of us.

Fair winds, Leidy. You will forever be in the heart of our family and the soul of West Bay.

In honour of Leidy, a service will be held on Saturday, January 17th, 2026, at 2:00pm at Victory Memorial Park – 14831 28th Avenue Surrey, BC V4P 1P3

To attend, please RSVP to “[email protected]”. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream link can be requested at the same email before January 17th.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Salvation Army in honour of Leidy’s generous spirit.

We hope you can join us in celebrating a remarkable life and legacy.