VanZEE, Jan (John)

March 19, 1935 - April 21, 2019

It is with heavy heart that we announce the unexpected passing of Opa vanZee. Opa passed in the hospital with his wife and family by his side. Dear husband of Jacoba, beloved father of Lorraine (Doug), Diane (Bob). Loving grandfather of Cassandra (Jeff), Quinn (Chantelle), Jocelyn (Chris), Ross (Saber). Adored great-grandfather of Madi, Bianca, Kensie, Kaylee, Annebell, Alexis, Andie, Lilith, Ronin, and Charlie. In Holland he will be sadly missed by older brother Broer (Sjaan), younger sister Leny (Anthony), and predeceased brother Henk (Roely). Predeceased by his parents Jan and Leentje vanZee. John had many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. He was a very proud man who had many accomplishments. He traveled to Canada at the young age of 19 to build a life for him and soon to be wife. After some time working he had sent money back to Holland to have Jacoba fly to Canada to join him, and shortly after married her in 1954. This was the beginning of many great years to follow. He was a dedicated and loyal husband. He was very proud of his career at Ford Motor Company in which he retired at the age of 55. From that point on he was able to spend many years as a snowbird and enjoying his winters on a sunny beach in Florida. His greatest accomplishment though was always his family. His family held a large part of his heart. He had a special place for all of the kids, and each of them new how much they were loved. He was always happiest with everyone gathered at his home while enjoying his many grandchildren. As per John’s wishes, a private cremation will take place with a Celebration of Life to follow at a later date. For those who wish, donations in memory of John to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum would be sincerely appreciated by the family.