Colin E. Meertens

Colin E. Meertens, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the age of 89 in Sun City Center, Florida. Born on October 29, 1935, in Georgetown, Guyana, to Ivor and Una Meertens, Colin lived a life marked by warmth, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to family and friends.

Colin grew up as the eldest male among eight siblings. This position in his family shaped him into a natural leader—responsible, hardworking, and deeply devoted to those he loved. From an early age, his entrepreneurial spirit shone through, as he learned the trade of boat-building alongside his father. He later expanded his business acumen by working as a salesman with D-Garr Brothers before venturing into his own enterprises, always driven by ambition, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to success.

But beyond his career, Colin’s true passion was his family. A devoted husband for 62 years, he cherished his wife from the moment he first saw her in a stunning white fishtail dress at a party. His admiration never wavered, famously declaring, "I love the dirt she walked upon." Their love story became a testament to deep companionship, respect, and unwavering devotion.

As a father, Colin nurtured his five children with wisdom, humor, and strong values. His household was filled with laughter and insightful conversations, often punctuated by his signature phrase"I look good, I feel good, and I smell good." He instilled confidence and a love for life in his children, setting an example of perseverance and integrity. His role as a grandfather to fourteen and great-grandfather to five further cemented his impact, as he guided younger generations with love and wisdom.

A cherished uncle and brother, Colin never hesitated to support his extended family. Whether through mentorship or heartfelt advice, his presence was a pillar of strength. His commitment to faith remained a cornerstone of his life, reminding everyone around him that "The Man Upstairs is taking care of me."Through moments of joy and hardship, he found peace in his belief, offering comfort and reassurance to those around him.

Beyond his personal and professional life, Colin was known for his kindness and generosity. He lived by the principle, "It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice,"* a philosophy that guided his interactions with friends, colleagues, and strangers alike. He treated everyone with respect, making a lasting impression wherever he went.

Colin E. Meertens was a man of resilience, wisdom, and warmth—an inspiration to many. His legacy lives on through his family and the countless lives he touched. Though he passed away on June 8, at3:29 AM at the age of 89, his influence remains eternal, carried forward in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Colin was preceded in death by his beloved son, Trevor Hayling, whose memory he held close.

His legacy lives on through his loving wife of 62 years, Gloria P. Meertens; his daughters, Nicola Rodney (Gary), Tiffany Checkley (Phillip), Colleen Branche (Ron), and Stephane Duroseau (Patrick); daughter-in-law, Sylvanna Hayling; and his treasured grandchildren: Ryan, Trevon, and Alexe Hayling, Shauntaye Findlay, Myles and Gabrielle Rodney, Tyeler, Taylor, and Tyrah Checkley, Isabelle, Morgan, and Kennedy Branche, and Leila and Preston Duroseau. He is also survived by his brothers, Godfrey Meertens (Mignon) and Mark Meertens, and sisters, Rita Hillocks, Verna Jones, and Brenda Spears; and five great-grandchildren.

The family will welcome friends to share in remembering Colin’s remarkable life on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM at Blount & Curry, Terrace Oaks Chapel, 12690 N 56th Street, Temple Terrace, Florida. A Celebration of Life will follow at 6:00 PM, honoring his legacy of love and connection.