Obituary of Josephus Johannes Vanderhelm
VANDERHELM, Josephus Johannes (Joe) -
Peacefully at Providence Manor on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 at the age of 87. He was born in Naaldwijk, The Netherlands on November 4, 1930. Joe was the third of eleven children. He, along with his first wife (Adriana) and 3 children emigrated to Kingston in 1959, and they later had 3 more children. Joe worked at Providence Motherhouse (Heathfield) for 34 years as gardener and maintenance man. After his retirement Joe travelled to: Alaska, Austria, England, The Netherlands, and Hawaii. He enjoyed dancing, gardening, playing card games and billiards. Joe's later life was enhanced by the love and friendship of his partner Beverly Walker. Joe is survived by his children: Irene (Stan Garrah); Neil (Carol); Joseph (Leanne) of Edmonton, Alberta; William (Beth); Martin (Carla) of Brockville, ON; and Patrick (Alison). Opa to eleven grandchildren: Jas (Adelina), Lyn (Jimmy), Jane (Brad), Mark (Robyn), Sarah (Rob), Lucy (Martin), Joe (Brianne), Janelle, Kristina, Adam (Lee-Ann), Jessica (Ren); and five great-grandchildren: Simon, Myles, Graham, Anna, and Max. He is also survived by several siblings in The Netherlands, and one brother in Kingston: Reinier (Nel) Vanderhelm. In accordance with Joe's wishes, cremation has taken place. Joe's family will receive friends at JAMES REID FUNERAL HOME, 1900 John Counter Boulevard, on Tuesday, November 21, from 12:30 pm until 1:20 pm. Liturgy of the Word will follow in the Chapel at 1:30 pm, with Monsignor Joseph Lynch officiating. The family will gather privately at St. Mary's Cemetery for the Rite of Committal. For those who wish, donations may be made in Joe's memory to Hospice Kingston or University Hospitals Kingston Foundation. Flowers gratefully declined. The family extends sincere gratitude to all of Joe's caregivers at Providence Manor, especially to the team on Montreal 4 for their care and compassion.
