Obituary of Johannes Van Berkel

It is with sadness and thankfulness that we announce the passing of Johannes (Hans) Van Berkel, who was called home by Jesus on January 19, 2025, at the age of 78.

Hans will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 56 years, Susan Van Berkel (nee Walker), and their children Greg (Kristin) Van Berkel, Geoff (Judy) Van Berkel, Johanna Bos, and Mark (Tracy) Van Berkel. He was a beloved Opa to his grandchildren Emily, Noah, Sam (Megan), Megan, Joshua (Kathryn), Daphna, Grace, Athulia, Donalson, Isaiah, Raina, Jeremiah, Ellie, June, Annie, Ayva, Alex, Julia, and Nadia, and great-Opa to Naomi and another great-grandchild on the way!

Hans is also fondly remembered by his siblings Adriana Brown, Joanne (Jim) Pollock, Arnolda (Ralph) Baker, Patricia VanBerkel, Marjorie Desmet, and Janice (Derek) Frank, as well as his brothers-in-law Vic Postma and Arnold (Claudia) Zietsma, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Pieter and Johanna VanBerkel, his brothers Mike (Jane) and Pieter, and his sisters Elizabeth and Nelly.

The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital for their kindness and compassion during Hans’ stay. Special thanks also go to Pastor Zekveld for his constant care and support.

Visitation will be held at Providence United Reformed Church, 447 Second Street, Strathroy, on Monday, January 27th, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, January 28^th, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with interment to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Word and Deed Ministries in Hans’ memory.

He’s safe in the arms of Jesus.