With heavy hearts we announce the passing of John Kavelaars of London and formerly of Ekfrid Twp. John was the beloved husband of Anne (Witlox) Kavelaars, with whom he shared over 64 years of love, marriage and companionship and she already misses him terribly. John died peacefully in his 91st year, on Wednesday, August 21st, 2024 at University Hospital. John was the much-loved father of Marycatharine Kusch (Kevin), Annette Kavelaars-Burrows (Gary Burrows), JJ Kavelaars (Joanna Rippin), Ingrid Kavelaars (Dallas Eakins), and Monique Kavelaars (Andreas Karlson). John was a proud and loving grandfather to his twelve grandchildren: Genna, Abbi, William, Hayden, Tyse, Emrik, RuthAnne, Catherine, Maddox, Emerson, Sam, and Cameron, and great-grandfather to Link and Evan, each of whom brought him immense joy. He is survived by his brother Br. Wim and sister-in-law Marianne in Holland. Predeceased 3 brothers Anton (Will), Fr. Franz and Pierre. John loved being a farmer. A man of the land, he had a deep passion for farming. He found fulfillment in the rhythms of farm life and found great purpose in his work. He was also keenly interested in the commodity markets, where his sharp mind and talents allowed him to augment life on the farm. John was committed to education and Catholicity, serving the London District Catholic School Board for many years and as chair multiple times. John also served his community as a finance committee member of the Diocese of London, a councillor for Southwest Middlesex, a member of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture and various other farm organizations. John’s life benefited from the amazing care and treatment he received from Ontario’s medical system over many years. As a member of the Four Counties Health Services Foundation and hospital boards, John was well aware of the challenges in the healthcare system. From broken bones needing pins, to cardiac bypass, to cancer treatment and end-of-life care, John was helped through this life by caring and dedicated healthcare professionals. John’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He cherished every moment with them, whether it was gathering for family events, sharing stories, or simply enjoying each other’s company. His love, wisdom, and guidance will forever be missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Visitation will be held at Van Heck Funeral Home, 172 Symes, Glencoe, where family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate John’s life on Monday, August 26, from 5-8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Charles Garnier Church, 244 Stella St. Glencoe on Tuesday, August 27 at 11AM. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart in the Fields Cemetery, Mount Brydges. Memorial donations may be made to Four Counties Health Services Foundation as well as Mass Intentions
