A time for family...

"As published in the Ottawa Citizen"

DOELMAN, Williem "Bill" 1928 - 2008

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father and grandfather on June 9th, 2008 at the age of 79. He immigrated to Canada from Holland on 1951 and proudly embraced his new country. The beloved husband of 53 years of Tina (Schinkel). Loving father of John (Marg), Margaret (Co) and Ken (Linda). He will be dearly missed by his grandchildren Matthew, Jenny, Colin, Derek, Kevin, Leanne, Adam and Hayley. Also cherished by his many nieces, nephews and friends. Brother of Nick Doelman, Edith Vierhout, Rien Bartoen, Leni den Ouden and Atie Jongkind. Predeceased by his parents Jon and Katherine Doelman and his sisters Maarjte Kolle, and Klazien Dykstra. In lieu of flowers, donations to the World Relief Fund (C.R.W.R.C. at P.O. Box 85225 Burlington, ON L7R 4K4) or The Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated. Condolences at http://www.kellyfh.ca/ .


We gathered in Ottawa this week for a celebration of my uncle's life. We were reunited with those who we havn't seen for a long time and to be able to be a source of support and comfort for my aunt who is grieving the loss of her spouse of 53 years. It was wonderful to get together with family and especially my girls who went with us didn't realize they had quite so many 2nd cousins out there! I was happy to see my sis again who decided to fly back for the service. The more family the better!!

James survived his first night "looking after the fort" while we were away for a the night. Surprisingly the house was still standing and even more surprising...things didn't look that bad! I was a little concerned...ok alot concerned about leaving him in charge of all the dogs and animals but he proved me wrong! The dozen or so phone calls home wouldn't have given that away....naaaaaa

The girls really wanted to come and pay their last respects to an uncle who they considered a grampa. Uncle Bill was a special guy to them too.

With Aunt Nance.....

Sisters....

It was so nice to reconnect with family that we havn't seen for a long time. We had a wonderful dinner with an aunt and uncle that we have not gotten together with for several years and they actually don't live that far from us. Hopefully it will be the beginning of a new relationship as we plan to have them over more often. I have often heard the saying when one door closes another one opens so perhaps this is a new beginning there.

Uncle Bill....you were a wonderful man and we were so fortunate in knowing you and having you as part of our lives. Hopefully we can live our lives by your example, strength and determination.