Obituary of Ben Holtslag

Bernard Holtslag, a cherished husband of over 63 years, best friend and devoted father bid farewell to us on April 02^nd.   

Born in Holland, Ben embarked to Canada in 1960 at the age of 22 with his wife of 1 week, Celine.   They married on July 07^th and immigrated to Canada on July 15^th.  

Throughout his life, Ben found joy in simple pleasures. He spent cherished moments camping with his family at the Pinery.  His green thumb was evident in the vast Dutch gardens and ponds he nurtured at his home on Southview Cres for over 50 years. Ben loved to go to the London Knights Hockey games and had such a passion for soccer that along with Tony Witkamp, he created the Kensal Park Girls soccer team and spent years coaching and mentoring young soccer players.

One of Ben’s greatest loves was his granddaughter Emma, who is now at MacMaster University in Medical Radiation Sciences. Known as “Opa” Emma and Ben had a beautiful bond that created so many special memories that will last a lifetime.  

Together with his cherished wife, Celine, Ben embarked on travels near and far, embracing the wonders of travel and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

If you knew Ben, you knew his spicey sense of humor and his love to bring joy to others.  Ben always had a witty word or comment for everyone who crossed his path. His joy and love for life was demonstrated by the joy he brought others. After 30 years with the LTC here in London, Ben met and built so many friendships and relationships that we could not go anywhere in London without someone shouting out “hey Bennie why are you not driving the bus”. 

During Ben’s 30 years at the LTC he met a precious and dear friend; Len Moorhead. Len was with Ben at his bedside until the very end and brought a bright light with his visits and his endless supply of Tim Horton’s coffee and Ben’s favorite donuts. Grump old men to the end.

We welcome all friends and family to join us as we celebrate the joy and laughter that Ben brought to our lives.

A celebration of life open house will be held on Saturday April 13^th from  2 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Riverstone, 1951 Shore Road, London, Ontario, 2nd floor (Connections room)  

Forever in our hearts Opa. Sincerely and with love Celine and Ben’s family