Arelis “Reel” Van Egmond

1925 ~ 2016

Mr. Arelis “Reel” Van Egmond of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Ada Van Egmond, passed away peacefully at St. Michael’s Health Centre on Monday, February 15, 2016 at the age of 90 years.

Born in Holland, as a young man, Reel fought in the Indonesian War. After marrying the love of his life, they immigrated to Canada in 1953. Settling in Lethbridge, he worked at the dairy pool and then at Cambra Foods. He retired from there at 64 years of age and always said he was busier than when he was working. Dad really enjoyed music and sang in numerous choirs. He loved animals, the beauty of God’s creation, camping and gardening. He had a strong faith in God and was involved in the church. We lost an extraordinary Godly husband, father, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa and friend – Heaven’s gain!

Besides his loving wife, Reel is survived by his three daughters Brenda (Gordon) Miller, Helen (Frank) Van Nistelrooy, Marion (Gary) Rupps; one son Brian (Lynn) Van Egmond; nine grandchildren Lana Miller, Tilly (Jeff) Quick, Jonathan Miller, Charity (Mike) Fleischhaer, Jenny Van Nistelrooy, Nikki (Herb) Arnott, Shawn (Michelle) Van Nistelrooy, Casey (Kim) Rupps, Courtney Rupps, Jason (leah) Butz; fourteen great-grandchildren; as well as family in Holland.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, February 19, 2016 at ST. ANDREW’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 1818-5 Ave. S., Lethbridge, with Reverend Hugh Jack, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta Box 2211, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 4K7