Obituary of HERMAN VAN KALSBEEK

HERMAN VAN KALSBEEK

Herman passed away peacefully at home on April 5, 2023 with his partner by his side.

Herman is survived by his best friend and partner Don Rivers, sisters Frances Jeninga and Rita Gysbertsen, extended family Patty, Michael, Riley Rivers-LeBlanc and Jolene, Joey, Jordyn, Jayme Rivers-Kurtz. Blended family member Herman Zwiers and wife Mary and family. Nephews Ted Jeninga and wife Yvonne, Andy Jeninga and wife Laurel, Ron Jeninga and wife Tammy and all their respective families, John Boorsma and wife Linda and family, Bob Gysbertsen and wife Lisa and family, special niece Wanda Gysbertsen, along with Claire Jeninga, Linda Gysbertsen and Chrissy Pritchett and family. Also, Herman’s many friends and neighbours at Fred Douglas Place, a place he very much enjoyed.

Herman was predeceased by his first partner Ray Cromarty in 1989, his parents Fedde and Gerritje, brother Peter and wife Lyda, sister Evelyn and husband Ed Boorsma, sister Margret and husband Harry Croes, brothers-in law John Jeninga and Co Gysbertsen. Also, special nephews Colin Gysbertsen and Fred Jeninga.

Herman was born in the town of Heerlen, The Netherlands. After completing post-secondary college and a two-year stint in the Dutch Air Force (conscription), Herman visited his sister Evelyn in Transcona the summer of 1958. He liked Canada so much, he decided to stay and become a Canadian citizen.

Herman was a true gentleman, kind, generous, caring, and adventurous. He was an accomplished pianist who could play anything written from sheet music. His preference being classical music but played what friends and family would request. Herman loved the piano and had several throughout his lifetime. He once had three grand pianos, two player pianos, one upright piano and an antique pump organ all at one time in his house on Inkster Blvd. Herman also had an extensive collection of sheet music and music books of all genres. Herman was a true collector. From grand pianos, written music, model trains, antique greeting cards, books and stamps just to name a few. Herman was an avid world traveler, having been a travel agent/manager of Fort Garry Travel for many years. Claiming Herman was unique is an understatement. Herman had a keen sense of home décor, landscaping, gardening and home renovations, antiques and loved dogs and cats. He cherished life and everybody he came into contact with. We will miss Herman dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 5, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street.