ROMBAUT, Christiaan Johannes “Chris”

Age 86, of Coldbrook, after a prolonged period of failing health, passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024, in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville. He was born on January 27, 1938, in Leiden, the Netherlands, to the late Jacobus Johannes Franciscus and Hendrika (Degraaff) Rombaut. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family, being predeceased by his brothers, Eduard (Rie) and Willem (Agaath); and sisters, Riek Rombaut and Suzanne (Gerrit) van Ry. A child of war, Chris immigrated to Canada at the age of 17, where he met the love of his life, his wife of 62 years, Tina. Chris was an employee at the former Kings Correctional Centre in Waterville for 25 years, serving as Deputy Superintendent during the last nine years. He loved his family dearly and was so very proud of their achievements. “Opa’s” playful, full of fun personality will be remembered by many, but especially by his grandchildren and great grandchildren who he adored. Chris loved music, especially his “Dutch music”, and played in a harmonica band in his final years. He had many interests and loved puttering around his property, of which he took great pride. New projects were always planned. He loved all animals, especially his dogs and he loved to socialize. A life well lived. Chris is survived by his wife, Jentina “Tina” (Gerrits); children, Richard (Shelagh), Aylesford; Allan (Karen), Rothesay, NB; Nancy Walker (Glenn Melanson), Yarmouth; and Lucinda “Cindi” Rombaut (Darryl Hebb), Coldbrook; 11 grandchildren, Christiaan, Jordan, Victoria, Taylor, Joshua, Benjamin, Christina, Nicklaus, Carly, Morgan, and Duncan; and nine greatgrandchildren, Carolina, Isabella, Miroslav, Rowan, Jake, Rylee, Kinsley, Aubree and Lucas. There will be no visitation, by request. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, in the Canard Burial Ground, Upper Canard. Pastor Bert Vanderbeek and Rev. Dr. David Bielby officiating. There will be a video webcast available on-line by Sunday, May 12 for those unable to attend. Donations in memory may be made to Diabetes Canada or a charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville. Online condolences and inquiries may be directed to: www.whitefamilyfuneral home.com