Obituary of Gerard Poel

Gerard James Poel, November 21, 1928 – May 31, 2021 of St. Marys Passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family in his 93rd year.Beloved husband of Adrianna "Jean" (Boere) who was by his side for more than 62 years. Loving father of Marilyn (Henry) Van Heesch of Wingham; Julie (Rob) Black of Fergus; Rita (Michael) Pieniazek of Thamesford; Caroline (Arnie) Brekelmans of Thamesford; Linda (Steve) Hulshof of Kinkora; John (Alanna) of Perth South. Much loved Grandpa of Scott (Carly) Van Heesch and Marina (Hauke) Hauschildt; Kristen (Brandon) Wiersma, Michael (Amber) Black, Tayler Black and Adam Black; Ian Pieniazek; Luke Brekelmans and Paul Brekelmans; Celina Hulshof, Mark Hulshof, Jeannine Hulshof (with Josh) and Karen Hulshof (with Jen); Tony Vossen, Amanda (Jake) Merkel, Josie Poel and Caleb Poel Great-grandfather of Jackson and Connor Wiersma, Oliver Van Heesch, Lyra Merkel and Bennett Hauschildt. Also survived by his sister Marie Van Leeuwen of the Netherlands and sister-in-law Betty Poel. Predeceased by his son, Peter (1963), his parents Jacobus and Agatha (Duijn), his sister, Gre Tuyp and his brothers, Piet, Wim, Cor, Fr. Jan, Nico and Peter. Fondly remembered by many members of the Poel and Boere families and many friends in both Canada and the Netherlands.Gerard was born on a farm in West Beemster, North Holland and immigrated to Canada with his brother, Peter in 1952. He met and married Jean in 1958, becoming a proud Canadian citizen the day before their wedding. Gerard, together with Jean, raised their family and farmed on the Kirkton Road before moving into St. Marys in 1993. As a couple they were active members of Holy Name of Mary Parish and volunteered for many years at the Kirkton Community Centre. Gerard enjoyed going to dances with Jean, playing cards, biking, reading, playing pool and visiting over coffee. He had a passionate interest in farming and curling to the end. Gerard was particular in his habits, self-deprecating in his humour, deep in his love for his family, stubborn in his self-discipline, and steadfast in his faith. He found much enjoyment in music and song, and always had a sparkle in his eye and another funny story to tell.Special thanks to Dr. Jeff Hepburn and the CarePartners team.Visitation at the Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home, 47 Wellington St. S. St. Marys, on Thursday, June 3, 2021. Those wishing to attend in person or virtually through Zoom, please contact the funeral home for a timeUpdate: In person visitation times are now fully booked. There is the option of being in the room through Zoom, please email request to rsvphodges@gmail.com.A private family Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated Holy Name of Mary Parish, Fr. Peter Poel as celebrant. Interment in St. Marys Cemetery.As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be given to Canadian Food for Children.PAX VOBIS