A life well lived. On June 22nd, 2017 Cornelius Antonius van Dyk, (Case), passed away surrounded by the presence and love of his wife and 9 children. Our individual sorrow is eased by the profound gratitude that we all feel for having had such a wonderful man in our lives for so long. The joyful memories, wise council and loving family that remains is his legacy.
Born in Wijk by Duurstede, the Netherlands on May 1, 1931, he was raised in war time Europe and enjoyed an adventurous childhood with his 3 brothers and 5 sisters. Immigrating to Canada in 1954 with his bride and loving partner of 63 years, Riek (Spithoven), they landed at Pier 21 and then on to Caledonia. There he would pursue his passions for agriculture, business, and community while raising a large loving family. His unique combination of work ethic, stubborn determination, and playful sense of humour would lead to much success.
Very proud of and dedicated to his local community, he served as Queens County Municipal Councillor & Deputy Warden, School Board Director & Board Chair; President of: St. Jerome’s Parish Council, County Federation of Agriculture, & Board of Trade. He also served as President of the Wild Blueberry Producers Association of Nova Scotia and numerous other agricultural committees.
Case received many awards and recognitions throughout his career but there were a few for which he was most proud. Recognition from his agriculture peers through the NS Institute of Agrologists Farm Family of the Year Award and his induction into the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame were treasured awards. In business his favourites were the World Juice Congress Innovation Award for his Outstanding Wild Blueberry Juice and the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
Very much a family man, Case proudly followed the achievements of his children and grandchildren and sincerely appreciated the unique character and strengths of each. He is survived by his wife Riek, children, Gerry (Bev), Anne Selig (Glen), Jeannie (John McLellan), Anthony (Paula Luxton), John, Bernadette McIntosh (Mike), Peter (Kim), Leo (Sonya Dudka) and Charles (Tammy Ingram), 20 grandchildren, Mya, Adrien, Kim, Amanda, Luke, Connie, Casey, Kristen, Jessica, Rachael, Shawn, Owen, Nicholas, Nichole, Jacob, Delayne, Jaggar, Holland, Chandler, Daniel, and 5 great grandsons, Tucker, Quinn, Grey, Jack & Vance.
He is survived by 3 sisters and 3 brothers in the Netherlands, and 1 sister, Riek Blom, Quebec. He was predeceased by his parents Gerard & Adriana van Dyk, infant son Paul, infant great grandson Josiah, and sister Sjeane.
Visitation will be held 6:30- 9:00pm on Monday, June 26, 2017 at Chandlers’ Funeral Home in Liverpool. A Liturgy of the Word Service will be held on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 2:00 pm. at North Queens Fire Hall & Community Hub, Caledonia. Father Jack Farrell officiating. A private family committal will take place in St. Jerome’s Catholic Cemetery, West Caledonia. Reception will be held in the North Queens Fire Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to North Queens Medical Center, or North Queens Fire Department.
Online condolences may be made to www.chandlersfuneral.com
Offer Condolence for the family of van Dyk; Cornelius Antonius “Case”
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Vernon & Joyce Hawkes
We are so sorry to learn of Cornelius passing. He was a great man and will be missed.
Our thoughts and prayers to all the family. Take Comfort in the Great Memories with family and friends.
Joan Vissers Durnford
Riek and family:
So sorry to hear that Case has passed away. I will always remember our visits with your family — Case always had a twinkle in his eye and was very kind to all of us. I especially remember you and Case ALWAYS bringing us a bag of strawberry marshmallow candies whenever you visited us in Newcombville.
Sincere sympathy from all the Vissers family and our extended families.
Joan
cedric@susan smith
we are so sorry to here of your loss our thoughts and prayers are with the family cedric @susan smith
Andy Vermeulen
My sympathy to the entire family, Case is certainly an inspiration and a huge credit to all of Nova Scotia. Sending my prayers…
Charlotte & Graham Parks
Mrs van Dyk and family… my condolences go out to you all. He was such a nice man and I will never forget playing darts with him… he said he never played before but he beat me any way… hugs to you all on your loss… <3
David R. De Long
To the Family ,sorry to here of your loss of Case he was an inspiration to alot of people and a great man .
Annette Freeman
So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers to all of Casey family
Stephanie (Stafford) Tracy and family
We are so sorry for your loss, it will be felt by many. Our condolences to the family.
Wanda carver
Very sorry for your loss, he was a great man. You all have great memories to cherish. Our thoughts are with you.
Take Care.
Love Wanda and Carroll
Barry and Nita Fisher
sending our heartfelt condolences to all in the family
Anne Shay Kempton
To Gerry, Bev & families,
My sincere condolences in the passing of a father, father-in-law and grandfather. Casey was a kind gentleman and loved his family. He was a true leader in so many ways, with his family, businesses and the people who worked for him. He was held in high regard throughout the area. A kind, gentle soul now gone home.
May he rest in peace.
Anne Shay Kempton & family
Carol and Ken Shannon
We are so terribly saddened to hear of this huge loss. Indeed, a life well lived. Case leaves behind of legacy of kindness, loyalty, and integrity that is a model for all of us. Our deepest sympathies and support for the family.
Gilford N Donna Kempton
So sorry for your loss, condolences to all of Casey family <3
Suzanne Frail
Dear Riek, and family,
My very sincere condolences to you all. Case was an exceptional man in every regard. The love for all of you was seen in his face when he talked about you. He was very proud of everything you did. I enjoyed many talks with him, wether is was business, volunteering, or just about life. He was a kind and understanding man that will be greatly missed by all. I know you have many treasured memories to hold close to your hearts. It will help ease the pain of your loss. Take care, Suzanne xx
Christine and Dwight Mansfield
So sorry to hear of Cases death,quiet,but he came each year I worked at Post office.
Great men like Case and Bobby Holdright, it takes awhile to fully understand what we lost but not till the silence when you not planning on going back to think about the Gentlemen Case and Bobby H. were.j
Love and peace to all Christine and Dwight Mansfield xo’s
Oscar & Debbie
We are sorry to hear of your great loss he touched many people on his path through this world as we were lucky enough to cross during his journey
Helena and Dave
Sorry for your loss,Jeannie. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Dave, Helena and family.
Callie Uhlman
To all the family ; verys sorry to hear of Case’s passing.Thoughts and prayers in your loss.
Callie Uhlman
Bianca and John Inkpen
So sorry to hear of Case’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time.
Rae Casey
Jeannie, so very sorry to hear of the death of your father. Sending sincere sympathy to you, John and all your family.
Rae (Casey)
Betty Phoenix
Sorry for your family’s loss
jeannette Lewis
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the families of Cornelius.He will be missed .
Linda and Bruce DeLong
Bruce and I are so sorry to learn of Case’s passing. He was a wonderful, kind and caring man. Thinking of you all at this sad time.
Cindy Withrow
So sorry for your loss. Bruce, Cindy and Hannah Withrow
John & Doreen Holdright
So sorry to hear that Case has passed on to a better place. As a Community leader and a friend to everyone he has certainly left his mark. Our thoughts are with the Family during this time of sadness.
Julie and Orval Meisner
Our thoughts are with the entire van Dyk family at this time of sadness. Case was a wonderful family man and huge asset to the community. He will be fondly remembered and missed by all who knew him.
Jim, Ann and family
Jim, Ann and family
June 23, 2017
We are sorry to hear of your loss. Case and his family have been a great asset to this area for the past sixty three years. Our thoughts and prayers rare with the family
Keith and Gaylene Sabine
So sorry for your very sad loss. Our sincere condolances to the entire van Dyk family. Case will be sadly missed by many.
Martie and Richie Atkins
Very sorry to hear of Case’s passing. Our condolences to Riek and all the family.
Christian Fulham
To Leo and family, my deepest condolences to you all! I have never met Case but from my interactions with Leo, i know that he was a great man with a great legacy. You will have an angel looking over your family forever. Keep his light shine in your hearts .
Kevin and Marsha Freeman
Our sincere condolence to you all. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lauri Huskins Baxter
To all of Case’s family
I am so very sorry for your huge loss. Case was a wonderful man, but I know I don’t need to tell you all that! He had a great sense of humor, huge work ethic, a gentle kindness, always a helping hand, but most of all a true love of his family. I don’t think anyone could say anything negative about him.
I remember many a time that he would pick Charles up from somewhere, and I would hitch a ride too, his driving may have scared me a little, but I’d always get in the next time!
When I was younger, I often thought of the van Dyk family during big holidays and how it must have been amazing to come from such a big family, all sitting around the table for a special meal. You are blessed to have one another always and especially at such a sad time.
I am sure you all have your own very special memories, that you will all be sharing over the next few days. They will bring tears, smiles, laughs and wonderful moments. And those memories will live on forever.
I am sad to say that I will not be able to make calling hours (my daughters gr12 prom), nor the funeral mass (an appointment that I cannot change), but I want you to know I will be thinking of you all during this time, with lots of love. I wish I could have seen you all and offered my condolences in person,
Hugs to you all, especially to Riek.
Sincerely, Lauri Huskins-Baxter
“We never have enough time with those we love.”
Ian & Norma MacCara
To the McLellan Family:
Sorry to hear of your loss. A life well lived, indeed!
Lynne Stead-Crowell
To Jeannie, John and Family,
So sorry to read if Case passing. Remember how much Phillip thought of your Dad. he always enjoyed the time they spent together. I remember that little twinkle in Case eyes and his great smile. Sending my prayers and a hug.
Laverne and Neal Mansfield
Riek and Family We send our deep and sincere sympathy to each of you as you go through this very sad and very difficult time of loss.Hold tight to one another and every precious memory of your lives with your husband. father and grandfather.You are all in our thoughts and prayers now and in days to come.May peace and comfort be with each of you. Neal and Laverne (Frail) Mansfield
Terry &Sheila DeLong
Case was a good family man & a friend to all. He always had time to say hello. It was lovely to see him & Reik out about the community. We will hold our memories close to us especially the family. Know you have so many thoughts & prayers coming your way. Be brave.
Mike Cushing
Sorry to hear of Case’s passing. A wonderful person, family man and cherished member of the community. I have fond memories of the Van Dyk family.
Bonnie Labrador & Jerry Mansfield
So sorry to hear of your loss. I can’t help but recall the day my friend and I stopped by the blueberry plant and Case gave us a tour and took time out of his day to talk to us. He even let me get a picture of him and my friend together. She felt that she just had her picture taken with a celebrity as she loved to drink the blueberry juice and was pleased that she got to talk to the ower.
Our thoughts are with the family at this time. Take care,
Bonnie Labrador, Jerry Mansfield.
Helen and Georgie Uhlman
Georgie and I would like to send sincere sympathy to all the family. He was a true family man and a gentleman, such an integral part of our community and he will be greatly missed. Hugs to you all.
Fausen Johnson
He was a great man who made North Queens a better place to live
Gloria White
Jeannie ,
We are so sorry for the passing of you dad. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time.
Love Gloria & Brian
BECKY NEIL
SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSS…THINKING OF YOU ALL AT THIS SAD TIME..HUGS!!! LOVE FROM BECKY AND FAMILY
robert winters
to Bernadette and mike and the family.Condolences on the loss of your father, he was a great man who took something from nothing and grew it, to put it, where it is today.My thoughts are with you. god bless
Stephen Millard
Peter,sorry to read about your Dad.He was always a pleasure to talk to.He was a fine man.
Chris Dudka
Leo,
We are so very sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time.
All our Love Chris, Liz, Owen and Zoey Dudka
MARLEAN RHODENIZER
The measure of a man is not the number of years he lives, but how he lives those
years. Truly your loved one has excelled leaving behind a fine legacy in his family and his accomplishments. May your memories bring you comfort at this difficult time and
God surround your hearts with His peace.
Marlean (widow of late Robert Rhodenizer) & family, Barss Corner
Cliff Drysdale
To the van Dyk family:
Alice and I would like to express our condolences to the family of Case van Dyk. I had the privilege of working with Case on the North Queens Board of Trade. Case also encouraged the team developing the Mersey Tobeatic Research Centre. Case made great contributions to the North Queens Area and indeed for the Province of Nova Scotia.
Cliff and Alice Drysdale
Port George N.S.
Cliff Drysdale
To the van Dyk family:
Alice and I would like to express our condolences to the family of Case van Dyk. I had the privilege of working with Case on the North Queens Board of Trade. Case also encouraged the team developing the Mersey Tobeatic Research Centre. Case made great contributions to the North Queens Area and indeed for the Province of Nova Scotia.
Cliff Drysdale
Port George N.S.
Judith Haggerty
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of Cornelius. We met him several times and he impressed us with his kindness and integrity. A truly amazing obituary for a truly amazing man. My special condolences to his wife, and to his son, Leo, and my sister and their family. Love, Judy and Lloyd Haggerty
Marie Lamrock
Dear Gerry and the van Dyk family: I was so shocked to hear of your dad’s passing. He was such a strong community man and the few times that I had met him, he certainly portrayed his love for his family. I am sure he left many good memories that you all can relate to and hopefully these memories will help to ease the sadness that you are experiencing at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time.
Queens/Shelburne Truckers Association
It is with heavy hearts that we send our sympathy and condolences to the van Dyk family on the loss of their Dad. His caring ways will always be remembered by those who knew him and Queens County is certainly a better place because of the commitment he gave to it.
Kristy Walker
Leo and family, my deepest sympathies. Sending positive thoughts and thinking of you at this time.
Iona Charlton
To the Family:
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his wife, and each and every member of Case’s family, on the loss of this wonderful person.He was a pioneer in many vocations in Queens county, since his arrival to Canada, with success and employment for many. I know most of his children and grandchildren, and have been fortunate to work in the park with some of you.It is a huge loss and will leave a vacancy in each of your lives.So sorry I am unable to attend the memorial or funeral as I will be away next week.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all, especially to Nicole and Jacob.
donna wareham
Reck and family
Sorry to hear of your loss . Case was such a great and kind man . He did a lot for our little community and other communities as well . It was a great pleasure to work for him and his family . He will be missed by a lot of people but never forgotten .You all are in my prayers
Hugs to you all Donna Wareham
Paul & MaryLou Smith
VanDyke Family
Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mrs. VanDyke and the VanDyke family. Remember Case showing us through the hog farm and blueberries when I came out with Dad (Stan Smith who always mentioned Case as being a good friend and in municipal council together). The long chat I with him at the Health Show at the Halifax Forum when promoting the delicious blueberry juice. Remember being out to your farm on several occasions. May The Blessings Be.
Myrna Crouse
To the VanDyk family:
My heartfelt sympathy to you all . Case was a great guy and worked hard for his family and North Queens. I well remember waiting on him when he would come in to the Bank and always shared a few chuckles. Remember the great times you had with him. It was a joy to have known him. My prayers and thoughts are with you all during these difficult days. Blessings.
Keith Wyer
So sorry to hear of Case’s passing.I enjoyed many long talks about politics and business and always valued his wisdom. If ever we had a roll model for our community Case would be it he will be missed by all that knew him. May God bless his family at this time…………….Keith
richard and marjorie thompson
Richard and I have known case for many years – dick thru farming and the federation I thru his many trips to meetings and then at the different shows –what a wonderful man –one would never know that he held so many positions just to talk to him and he knew you where ever he was – what a proud father and grand father he was -he will be truly missed -you are all in our thoughts and prayers
marjorie and dick thomposon
Jeanie please know ur whole family are in our prayers and how proud he was of you all
Arthur &Patsy
We would like to send our condolences to all the Vandyk Family on the passing of Case, he was a great neighbor and friend. he will be greatly missed by all who knew him,prayers an hugs to all,R.I.P. case Arthur & Patsy
Greg and Loretta Frail
To the van Dyk family
We were very sorry to hear of Case’s passing. Not only is it a huge personal loss for your family, but a great loss for North Queens and indeed the wider world. He was a man of great ethics, integrity, and a sense of community rivaled by none. He has left a truly amazing legacy that will be an inspiration to many for years to come.
With deepest sympathy,
Greg and Loretta
Vaughn & Kathy Rawding
To all the Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with during this very sad and difficult time
David Schilling
To the entire van Dyk Family,
It brought tears to my eyes to read the obituary of an uncommon man! What attributes–all combined to bring love to family, community, province and beyond through his business skill and sense of community spirit. We need more like him in this day who can infuse daily reality with integrity, productivity, inventiveness–all wrapped up in humor and love!
I especially send a sincere condolence to his remarkable, incomparable daughter, Jeannie. I feel so blessed to be part of the van Dyk family through Jeannie and my first cousin, John McLellan. I am sending my thoughts and prayers these days to you and will especially be thinking of you on June 26th. Jonathan (and Elaine) joins in sending sincere condolences.
May God’s loving compassion and strength enfold you as you mourn and celebrate the passing of a truly outstanding human being.
Love,
David Schilling, New York City
Stanley and Joan Canning
Stan and I were So Sorry to hear of Case’s passing. As all others have said he was a wonderful man and certainly a large benefit to North Queens and other places. Our condolences to his wife Riek and all the wonderful families he leaves to mourn him. We hope the great memories will help to keep him close in your hearts. Deepest Sympathies
Murray and Donna Rolfe
Our thoughts are with all the Van Dyk Family.All the great Memories will come to light as time passes at this very trying time in your lives.
Howard Selig and Wendy Rodda
Our sincere condolences to the family, friends and business associates of Case. We offer our prayers in your time of remembrance and sorrow.
Louis and Joan Holdright
We are so very sorry to hear about Case’s passing and extend our sympathy to the family. Louis and Joan Holdright
Sonja Hendriks
Leo, Sonya and families – I was very saddened to hear of your loss. Although I never met Case, I have heard Leo speak of him with great love and affection many times. His was very much a life well lived. What an amazing man! I am certain his legacy will live on in each of you. Sincere condolences to you all.
Delbert & Mary Weare
To, Riek, Jerry, and all the van Dyke Family; We were very sorry to read Case’s obituary to-day. We have known him ever since he and Riek’s beginning in North Queens. He possessed so many fine attributes that most could only hope for. One was his kindness. He met me in a local store one day and realized I was not feeling very well so he put down his package and gave me a great bear hug. He never spoke and it was not necessary, I still remember that day.
You are a large family so share your good times as these will help you heal your great loss. Also open your Bible to John 5:28,29 and read these verses that speak about that grand Resurrection that is awaiting our Friend Case. We send all our love and best wishes to you at this sad time. Sincerely Del & Mary
Richard canning
Riek and family
You have my sincere condolences on the passing of your wonderful husband and dear father and grandfather. He will be sadly missed in the community. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time in your lives.
Muriel, Richard and Joan Canning
Catherine Saulnier
I have met many people who have who have left me with such great enthusiasm to be alive ..but meeting an individual like Case is rare…on every occasion, I left, feeling honoured to have met you..thank you for our wonderful chats and great advice, one being, Live Life To The Fullest, cause its goes by fast..too fast..may you rest in peace, dear sweet man.
Catherine HSW
David and Karen Dickinson
We were so sorry to learn of Case’s passing. He and Riek were always encouraging of us in the blueberry industry and we treasured the friendship carried on throughout the years. We regret we are not able to attend his final service in his honour, but we must be in Halifax as Karen is undergoing treatment for cancer and we are not able to leave, even for the day. Our deepest sympathy to Riek, Peter and the vanDyke family, some of whom we have met over the years. The opening sentence in the obituary says it all. He was “one of a kind” and we give thanks to the Creator above for bringing Case into our lives. With love and prayers.
Sue Cox-Prie
Jeannie and John…so very sorry for the loss of your father..heaven has now received another angel.My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficut time.
Mike Stewart
To Van Dyk Family, so sad to hear the passing of your Dad……Grandfather. Such a wise man and strong pillar of the North Queens Community. Your loss is your communitiy’s loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you!
Russell Miller
Sorry to hear of Casey’s passing. He has left a great legacy as a businessman, a community advocate and as a familyman. ( The greatest is his wonderful family)
North Queens should be very thankful that Casey and Riek, as young imigrants,selected Caledonia as their final destination. What an impact.
Thanks Casey for leaving Caledonia a better place than you found it. Your contributions were greatly appreciated
Karen Earley Beliveau
Condolences to Riek and the van Dyk family:
I remember our children playing together many summers when we would vacation in NS.
To Case ; “a job well done . . a life well lived”
Karen, Gene, Michel, Nicole
Nancy
The Comeau family of Greenland send our thoughts and prayers to you all. We remember Mr. Van Dyke from raking blueberries in Victory many years ago. 🙂 He would often come to my parents house to pick us up – our crew would overflow the station wagon he drove! I remember his twinkling eyes and big grin as he listened to the chatter along the way. He has blessed many people during his life. May God comfort you all as your mourn this great loss in your lives.
Sean Layden
Dear Leo and family.I was sorry read that Mr van Dyk had passed away. Please accept my sympathies.
Sincerely, Sean Layden, Dartmouth, NS.
Marilyn 'McGinty' Cobb
Reik & family,
I saw the obituary in today’s Halifax paper & was deeply saddened by the news of Case’s passing. I remember when you & Case first came to West Caledonia all those many years ago. My thoughts are with you all & on behalf of Chuck, myself & our families – I extend our condolences.
Love, Marilyn
Mayor David Dagley
Riek and Family:
On behalf of Council and staff at the Region of Queens, I would like to convey our sincere condolences for your loss. Case contributed much to Queens, and we are very appreciative of his past efforts.
Annie
So sorry for your family’s loss Anthony.
Paul and Kathy Peppard
Anne, Jeannie and family: So sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. Please know that we are both thinking of you and your loved ones. Paul and Kathy
Robert & Ann Palmeter
Jeannie , Anne & families
Our deepest condolences to you all at this difficult time. May you find comfort in the memories that are yours to cherish always. Your father and grand father will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Blessings to you all. Robert & Ann Palmeter
Jacqueline McCarles
Leo and family – I am so sorry to hear of your husband, Father and GrandfAther’s passing. I never met him but Leo always talked so highly of him. He sounded like a true family man and a brilliant business minded agriculturist! Spend time enjoying the memories and sharing the stories – my thoughts are with you all!
Michel Béliveau
You may not remember me, but I remember you all, so very well…
Rina Senz
Dear van Dyk family, So sorry for the loss of your Husband, father and Opa.
Many good memories with the family Dec. 5th Sinterklaas, always a special celebration.
My Condolences, Rina Senz, Dartmouth.
Annapolis County Truckers Association
Gerry … all members of the Annapolis County Truckers Association send their deepest sympathy
to you and your family ..
Pé en Riet de Wit - Spithoven
Lieve Riek en kinderen, gecondoleerd met het overlijden van Cees. Wij leven vanuit Nederland met jullie mee en we bewaren veel mooie herinneringen aan de bezoekjes die we aan jullie in Canada hebben gebracht. Heel veel sterkte toegewenst aan de hele familie, liefs van Pé en Riet.
Bob Mansfield
Dear Riek:
It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Case. I worked a few summers delivering blueberries for you folks and found Case to be one of the finest, fairest, most honest and sincere men I have ever met. Our most sincere condolences to you and your family
North Queens has lost an icon.
Bob/Hazel Mansfield
Siem en Anny Vernooij-van Dijk
Dear Riek and family;
Our condolences with the great loss of your sweet man, your father and father-in-law and grandfather. It was fine to hear that you were all with him when he was still so bright and that’s a thankful feeling if your family is around you if you have to say goodbye. Yes, you and we knew that the time of saying goodbye was coming; but that does not make the sadness any worse. We think of you and we will be with you in these hard days, even if it’s on distance; and we hope you get the power to accept this. We wish a lot of strength to all of you.
Love Siem and Anny
Holland
Diana Vernooij
Dear aunt Riek, cousins and cousins and rest of the family,
From my mother, I heard that your husband, father and grandfather died. I want to give you my condolences with this big loss. It was very nice as you have always kept us informed in the Netherlands about his health situation. We noticed that the end was approaching. But when it’s finally over, it’s going to be hard again. I have very nice memories of “Ome Cees”. Especially my time in Canada when I was 16 years old and later when I last saw him with Aunt Riek in Richmond. What have we collected beautiful memories, Anne can understand this. I wish you a lot of strength for the coming days, but certainly for the future in which you must distribute yourself without your father, the rock in the fire. I will assist my mother in processing the Sanders of the death of her dear brother.
Lost of love,
Diana and my childeren Marije, Danique and Tessa
Holland
Carolyn Tufts
To All Casey’s Family . I am So sorry for your loss . My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time .
Leon & Norma Robertson
Reik and family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss.I always enjoyed working with Case when he was Queens County councilor and Deputy Warden. Also when I was Bank Manager in Caledonia. Our thoughts are with you.
Leon & Norma Robertson
Wendy Nugent
Leo & Family,
My sincere condolences to you all. I did not have the pleasure of meeting Case, though I can see that he was an outstanding man who has left an amazing legacy. May you find comfort in all your wonderful memories.
Lawrence DeLong
Anthony, Jeannie and all of the vanDyk family.
My deepest sympathy on the passing of your father, grandfather, husband.
He will be greatly missed by his family and his community.
Mark Townsend
So sorry to hear of Case’s passing. Case was a great man- a true gentleman, a strong advocate for his community, and an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be missed by everyone. My condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Colleen Cameron
Dear Riek and Family, Please accept my sincere condolence for the loss of your husband and father. I had the pleasure and honour of working with Case on the board of directors for WBPANS for a number of years. He was a hard working, principled gentleman who did a lot for the blueberry industry in this province. His loss will be felt by many. I hope the happy memories you have of him will help you through this time of grieving.
Earl Kidston
Sorry to hear of Case’s passing and want to pass on our condolences to the family. At the same time, I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to know Case and to have shared fellowship with him. Case was a wonderful family man and a great supporter of his community. I personally enjoyed working with him in our joint love and belief in the Agri food industry. Case has left a large footprint in his industry and has been a great role model for so many of us. We will miss his mild mannered strength of leadership. His legacy lives on in his children and grand children.
Our thoughts and prayers to Reik and all the members of the family
Shawn Ingraham
Riek, Jeannie, Leo, Peter and family,
Sorry to hear of Case’s passing. I first met Case in the late 1990s at the juice plant in Caledonia and was struck by his passion for the business and the blueberry industry in general. He will be missed. Please accept my condolences for your family’s loss.
Donna Denison
So sorry to read of Case’s passing. I remember serving on the local Liberal Association with him years ago. He was a fine gentleman. My thoughts are with you as you deal with his passing.
LInda Boutilier
What a heart warming obituary…a family man and a life exemplary for generations to come. I send my sympathy for I know how difficult it is to see a dad pass on who has worked so hard for his family. You have
many womderful memories to carry with you.
Robert & Sally Fader
Anthony & the van Dyk family:
So sorry to hear of the loss of such a wonderful man. The obituary speaks for itself. You are in our thoughts at this most difficult time.*
Premier Stephen McNeil
To Riek and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Case’s passing. I remember attending the wild blueberry festival one year and what a great conversation and time I had with him. A year ago, I was in China helping market Nova Scotia product, one of which was Juice Nova. I was in a city of 15 million people and as we described that this blueberry juice came from a community in Nova Scotia of less than 1,500 people, I smiled. I am sure Case and the entire family would have been as proud that day as I was. Your family should be very proud that your business has grown to be recognized world-wide. I think what is equally as impressive is while at the same time you were building this company you were also building your community, your agricultural associations and your province, proving that hard work and passion can lead to great success.
My hope is that in the coming days you will be able to proudly reflect on your husband’s and father’s legacy.
Sincerely,
Premier Stephen McNeil
Gerry McCarron
Leo and the van Dyk family,
Sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. He sounds like an extraordinary father and community leader.
Ken,Alice Cameron
Anthony ,Charles, Gerry, Bernadette ,and the rest of the Van Dyk Family:
I am so sorry to hear Case passed away. It is hard when you lose a father. The video shows the many memories and great times you all shared as a family. Something that became clear to me a while ago I want to share with you. Enjoy the little things in life
For one day you will look back
And realize they are the big things
Judy and Eric Cole
So sorry to hear of the loss of a wonderful gentlemen
Deborah Gilbert
Brian and I were so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. A man well loved ! He leaves you with wonderful memories. Will be thinking of you in the difficult days ahead.
Cheryl and Brian Uhlman
To Riek and the entire vanDyk family, So sorry for your loss.Our hearts are with you.Case will be remembered in so many ways.He lives on in all the family.
Derek Roberts
To the Van Dyk Family I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Casey and would like to send my condolences and to let you know that my thoughts are with you.
I was fortunate to have met Casey not long ago when you could see the sparkle in his eye when he talked about family, the family businesses, the good times, what most of us would call hard times but he just talked about them as challenges. I met Casey through his daughter Jeannie and we had been able to spend some time together talking about family, business, and many other things. One thing was very obvious Casey loved to learn about things all kinds of things and he would talk about his many experiences and I would marvel at some of the creative thinking that would go into finding a solutions.
I was also unfortunate that I was not able to spend more time with Casey but I quickly realized that Casey was first and foremost a family man, a strong and independent man and at the same time a compassionate man and one we will miss.
To The Van Dyk Family my sincerest condolences and to Casey Rest in Peace and God be with you.
Jane Barker and Richard Lane
A life well lived indeed. Our hearts are with Riek and family at this sad time, but remembering Case fondly as a great contributor to the community in so many ways, a kind and generous heart and a great mentor.
Donald and Anna Conway & Family
Reik and family we send you our deepest sympathy. We had a great respect Case we are sorry for your loss Case will be missed …
Nancy Q
Dear Leo:
I would like to extend my sincere deepest condolences to you and your family upon the passing of your incredible dad. I was so moved by reading the many personal stories about your amazing father. He was a loving, kind and caring family man that always gave back to his community. It was so heartwarming to read about how he touched so many people’s lives in positive ways and he will be so dearly missed by all those who knew him. His legacy will live on in all of you. Take care and sending you my warmest thoughts.
Christina Varoutas
I am so sorry to hear about your loss Leo.
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
George & June Reagh
Gerry Bev & family We want to express our sympathy for your loss and to let you know that our thoughts are with you all.
Christine McLean
So sorry to hear that Casey has passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time.
Ronnie and Sandra Ellis
We would like to send our sincere sympathy to all Case’s family. Indeed a life well lived, he will live on in all of you.
Michelle Smith
My condolences to the Van Dyk family at this time. He was a very special person who will be much missed and ever remembered. May God ease your hearts as you grieve.
Cheryl Uhlman
I remember being with a few of you in your kitchen some 45 years age when Case lent me one of his bee hives, and shared advice on how to raise them. It was such an act of kindness and generosity to a newcomer in the area, and such
a warm and friendly family. My thoughts are with you.
Tim & Ruth Longard
Dear Van Dyk Family,
Sincere condolences to you at this time
of great sadness. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now.
Love,
Tim & Ruth Longard
Valorie Skinner
Riek and Family
So very sorry for your loss. Case was such a community leader and volunteer.
May your many treasured memories be a comfort now and in the days to come.
Cheryl and Jamie Baker
To The Van Dyk Family,
We were saddened to learn of Case’s passing and hope the strength of family and community will help you through this difficult time.
Thoughts and prayers,
Andy seldon
Reik and family so sorry for your Loss ,my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time , What a great man a true inspiration to so many people, Andy Seldon
Glen DeMond
To the VanDyk family
So sorry of Casey’s passing. He was an outstanding man, with his family, his community, and in the business
world, especially in our community. Remembering our conversations on farming , and his input in all relative to
North Queens. His legacy will well remain. My sincerest condolence to all , with God’s blessing.
Glen DeMond
Tracey Murdock
Peter, Kim and family
So sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad, our thoughts are with you.
Tracey and David Murdock
John Bragg
Dear Mrs. Van Dyk – I am traveling in Europe. Please accept my sincerest sympathy, Case was a great asset to our industry and an all around great fellow who I considered a friend.
Sincerely,
John Bragg
Nathalie van Dijk
Dear aunt Riek and cousins,
My sincere condolances with the loss of your husband and father. Today the Dutch brothers and sisters came together to remember “Cees” and share memories. I haven’t been a fly on the wall, but I am sure that some of the “family stories” will be told over again. As they have for many years since Cees and Riek left Holland and emigrated to Canada.
Cees was the oldest Van Dijk brother, my father Nico is the youngest. Cees left Holland when my father was still very young, but the ship leaving the harbour of Rotterdam and the emotions of the family on the quay have made an huge impression on my father. As have the wartime adventures of the daring teenager Cees. My father always told these stories with great pride and love for his oldest brother.
So when I met Cees in my teenage years when he came to visit the family in The Netherlands (I met him before in Canada but then I was three years old, so forgive me for not having too many memories of that time) he had grown into mythical proportions in my mind. And he lived up to them. Cees truly is one of the most gentle and loving persons I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet.
He has also been so kind to my parents since they have to deal with the sickness of my mom. And his blueberry juice is so yummy and healthy, it will keep our family as fit as possible.
Wishing you lots of love and strenght in dealing with this enormous loss.
Big huge,
Nathalie
And Günther & Kyra
Wilhelmina Kalt
It was a great honour to be acquainted with Case and his wonderful family.
I have a similar story of immigration from Holland in 1957.
My mother enjoyed very much exchanging stories with Case and Riek at wild blueberry banquets.
Deepest condolences to you all,
Willy Kalt
Bill and Anna Cox
Riek and family
We were saddened to read of Case’s passing. Always a friendly man, with many stories to tell. Very proud of his family and his many accomplishments and he should be. He will be missed by all who knew him and many who didn’t. Our sincere condolences to you all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
John and Nancy Leefe
Riek and Family,
It was with great sadness that we learned of Case’s passing. He was a man of principle whose handshake was his bond. He brought wisdom, foresight and leadership to every activity he undertook. He understood the mantle of leadership and wore it with aplomb. We will remember him as a person of character and strength who gave so much to others.
Joan O'Keefe sc
Dear Riek and family,
I was slow getting news of Case’s death. Know that you are on my mind and in my heart. Thank you for your love and care for him as he loved and cared for all of you. It was for me a great source of inspiration to meet and know your family in the 70s. I wish you and all enough.
love,
Joan