VAN LAARHOVEN, ART

December 8, 2021, Adrianus (Art) Van Laarhoven, in his 74th year, passed away peacefully at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre after complications from a long illness.

Son of Francis and Adriana Van Laarhoven. Beloved husband of 50 years to Cheryl (Ritchie) Van Laarhoven. Cherished father of Julie (Leo) O’Connell, Joseph Van Laarhoven, and Joyanne (Bryan DeLonghi) Van Laarhoven.

Proud and loving grandfather of Rory, Bethany, Elena and Marina.

Art will be fondly remembered by his eight siblings: Mary Golds, Case (Debbie) Van Laarhoven, Francie (Glenn) Hall, Nellie (Tom d.) Hubbard, Anne (Bill d.) Dempster, Martin (Kathy) Van Laarhoven, Cora (Charlie d.)  Ware, Arlene (Darcy) Duquette.

Art always had fun with his Ritchie in-laws:  Joan (Dr Al) Bowness, Susan (Roger) Harrop, Glen (Barbara) Ritchie, Doug (Noreen) Ritchie, Lisa (Wayne) Goodfellow.

He dearly loved his numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, and never forgot a name.

His first off-the-farm job was fencing, which sparked a lifelong interest in building. Art loved caring for animals, and enjoyed all his years as a progressive dairy farmer. 

Some of Art’s favourite activities included golfing, gardening, boating, fishing, crop tours, and joking around. He always made people feel welcome, especially his extended family during the annual Van Laarhoven and Ritchie/Hobson reunions. 

Art and Cheryl built their dream house for their retirement.  At the end of his life, Art was delighted to look out the bright window and see paradise all around him.

Art was a man of deep faith in all aspects of his life, including his business, family, and community relationships.  The times that brought him the greatest joy were spent with his children and grandchildren, watching amateur sports and simply chatting.

Art always had a friendly “hello” for everyone.  He had a great laugh, and his eyes sparkled when he smiled.  Art will be dearly missed.

A visitation will be held at the Lynn-Stone Funeral Home in Elmvale from 4-7 pm on Monday, December 13th. Proof of vaccination will be required.   

A private family funeral mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Church in Phlepston.

Spring interment St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Phelpston.

Memorial donations in Art’s memory may be made directly to the RVH Cancer Centre or the charity of your choice.  Please email the funeral home of your donation at lynnstone@sympatico.ca, so that the family may be notified of your donation.