We are saddened to announce that Bert’s bags are packed and he’s off on his final adventure. Born in Middelburg, Holland, Bert grew up during World War II before moving with his family to Hoboken, New Jersey in 1951. After stops in Vancouver and Stonewall, Manitoba, he landed in Kenora to teach geography and world studies at Beaver Brae Secondary School in 1965.
His passion for helping students and adults to better understand the world led him on countless trips across six continents, and organizing of exchanges for dozens of students. Photography, drinking Caesars, taking really long road trips, worrying about money, waxing his car, and desserts were other strengths, and he never refused a first (or second) helping of something sweet, especially if it included raisins. Bert believed strongly in community, and was a devoted member of Knox United Church, singing in the choir, helping to maintain the property and serving in numerous other roles.
Bert was lucky to have found love twice, first with Marlene, with whom he raised two tall, dark (now more grey) and caring sons. And again with Betty, with whom he shared 36 years of travel, dancing, gardening (she the flowers, he the veggies) and adventures at their camp on Lake of the Woods.
The souvenirs Bert leaves from his journey through our lives are the connections and impressions he made with those around him. His gentle and sensitive nature, his twinkly smile, his quick laugh and his willingness to always help marked him as a truly caring person. He will be greatly missed by his wife and best friend Betty, his sons Sean (Jackie, Owen, Leo) and Trevor (Kylie, Jonah, Nolan), his siblings Neal (Hazel), Helen, John (Marg), and Harry (Glenys), his many nieces and nephews, and his second family Cyrena (Rena, Kendra), Neil (Kate, Alexis), Dianne (Ayoka, Joey, Ben, Hannah), Mark (Carmen, Dagmar, Madelaine) and Lisa.
Bon voyage, Bert! In lieu of flowers, we invite family and friends to consider a donation to a Parkinson’s charity of your choice. Funeral to be held at Knox United Church Monday, August 12, 2019 at 11 a.m.
BROWN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE ENTRUSTED WITH ARRANGEMENTS.
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