Obituary of Joe Van Riel

Van Riel, Joseph Petrus Johannes “Joe” 

Peacefully with his family by his side, Joseph Van Riel passed away on February 13th, 2024 at the age of 94. Loving husband of Helen (DeGroot) for 68 years. Cherished father of Pete (Dorothy) Van Riel, Cindy (Chuck) Melton, Simon (Frances) Van Riel, Mary (Kevin) Elliott, Josy (Gil) Royackers, Joey (1980), JoAnn (Frank) Vander Viloet. Proud Opa to Paula, Brian, Kristy, Laurie (2000), David, Katie, Dayna, Nikki, Stacey, Jaime, Cindy, Joel, Mike, Leanne, Brad, Eric, David, Joey, Johnny, Jennifer, Kevin. Loving great Opa to 37 great grandchildren, Theodore (2017), and 3 great greatgrandchildren. Predeceased by his sisters Fien, Sjaan and brothers Nies, Jan and Wim. Survived by two loving sisters Jo and Riet, and sisters-in-law Riet, Annie and Leny. Predeceased by brother-in-law Kees, Sjef, Drik and Jan and sister-in-law Johanna and survived by sister-in-law Mary. He will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends in Canada and the Netherlands.

Joe was born in Riel, Holland on December 9th, 1929. He was the 4th child of Peter and Clasina Van Riel. At the age of 8 he packed up his wagon and moved down the street to live with his grandparents where he learned his love of farming. Joe met and fell in love with Helen at an early age. Together they immigrated to Canada and eventually began his dream of farming and raising a family. Family was everything to Joe, he loved his children and his three generations of grandchildren. He was always welcoming to the many visitors, his door was always open. Joe made many friendships over the years and loved playing pool and cards with his friends. His legacy of helping others is woven into our lives and he will be greatly missed. 

The family would like to thank the ambulance attendants, doctors and nurses for his care.

A private Visitation and private Mass of Christian Burial will take place with interment to follow at Beechwood Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, donations made to the Forest Food Bank would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences and donations may be made at www.forestfuneralhome.com.