Obituary of Henry Van Kessel

Peacefully, surrounded by his family, Henry Van Kessel passed away at North Lambton Lodge, Forest, on August 14, 2010. Henry was born in Holland in 1914 and immigrated to Canada in 1951. He farmed in Warwick Township for 30 years. He loved to drive around the block to check on the crops and he enjoyed plowing the fields each fall to help his sons. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 58 years, Hendrika in 2002, his son Karl in 1975 and his grandson Kevin in 1985. He will be sorely missed by his children: Gerry and Annie, Gatineau, QC, John and Chris, London, JoAnne Sharp, Forest, Henry and Dignora , Lone Butte, BC, Jean and Herman Naus, Wyoming, Tony and Angie, Forest, Harriet and Kevin Peers, Fort McMurray, AB, Mike and Jeannine, Forest. Opa was loved by his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation at the FOREST CHAPEL OF DENNING FUNERAL DIRECTORS on Aug. 15, 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM. Funeral mass to be celebrated at St. Christopher's Church in Forest at 11:00 AM on Monday Aug. 16. In lieu of flowers, donations to the North Lambton Lodge Ladies Auxiliary would be appreciated. Donations and condolences may be left online at www.denningfuneralhome.com . Dad was born May 31, 1914, the youngest in a family of 3 boys and 2 girls. Dad married our mom in May 1943 and they immigrated to Canada in 1951 with five children in tow. The final tally was six sons and two daughters. Dad endured the tragic loss of his son Karl in 1976 and then his grandson, Kevin, in 1985. Dad came to Canada to give his family the chance to farm. He was a hard worker in the barn and on the fields. On the 15th side road of Warwick township, he farmed to his heart's content. In retirement he loved to help his boys plow the fields and he spent many afternoons touring the neighborhood checking out the crops. After mom died, dad spent 5 wonderful years with Tony and Angie. Shortly after his 95th birthday he made the move to North Lambton Lodge where he won the hearts of nurses, workers and residents. Dad was blessed with 96 years filled with love, sorrow, hardship and joy. The lessons learned and the memories of his life will stay with us forever. We will miss him. Matt.11 : 28-30 Come to Me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble of heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.