John Veldman passed away peacefully in Fergus, Ontario on March 14, 2025 in his 100th year at Groves Memorial Hospital.
John was predeceased by his loving wife Helen after 71 years of marriage. He is survived by his three children, Alan (Cheryl) of Calabogie, Norma of Elora and John (Sylvia) of Kitchener, his beloved grandchildren, Jennifer (Darrin), Jessica, Shanna (Matt) and Tara (Tyler) and great-grandchildren, Owen, Olivia, Austin and Jamie.
John was born in Staphorst (The Netherlands) in 1925, the oldest of 8 children. After serving with the Dutch Army in Indonesia, he immigrated to Guelph as a young man with his father, mother, brothers and sisters. He met and married his wife Helen in 1952 in Guelph where they raised their family before moving to Elora. John raised his family as a part time farmer while employed at Electrohome as a stationary engineer. He worked hard but always had time for family at home, on vacations to Sauble Beach, or spending time at the trailer in Meaford. Always sharp as a tack, he was curious about whatever he heard on the news and kept up with whatever sport was in season. A lifelong card player, he loved playing cribbage with John, Jessica and Harry in his later years. John will be dearly missed by family and friends.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025 from 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM followed by a funeral service for John at 11:00 AM at the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home (280 St. David St. S. Fergus, ON N1M 2L5, (519) 843-3100). Reception to follow in the Wellington Room (elevator access is available).
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Groves Memorial Community Hospital.
Visit https://www.grahamgiddyfh.com for John's online memorial.