Obituary of John Joseph VAN VERDEGEM

VAN VERDEGEM, John Joseph March 2, 1927 – December 26, 2011 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John, devoted husband, father, and grandfather at the age of 84 years. He is survived by his loving wife Mona; son Michael; grandchildren Taylor, Hunter, and Megan; brother George (Mary); nephew Douglas (Karen) and family; niece Diana (Wyman) and family; sister Mary; and nephew Rob (Pam) and family. He was predeceased by his first wife Helen, brother Bill, and parents Emile and Martha. John was born in Finnigan, Alberta on March 2, 1927. In 1939 he moved to the Namaka area with his family and attended Crowfoot School until 1942. After leaving school, he worked on many area farms. John then married his wife Mona Cassidy in October of 1963. Their first and only child, son Michael, was born on October 29, 1965. Together they raised their son on the family farm until moving to Strathmore upon retirement. Throughout the years John was involved with many organizations. He served on the Strathmore Seed Cleaning Plant Board, the Co-op Board of Directors, Knights of Columbus, the UFA Advisory Committee, and the local parish. He will be deeply missed by many. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 2, 2012 at Hope Community Covenant Church, Strathmore at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to the Strathmore Continuing Care Unit (200 Brent Blvd. Strathmore, AB, T1P 1J9). To send condolences, please visit www.wheatlandfuneralhome.ca. WHEATLAND FUNERAL HOME LTD. (Strathmore) in care of arrangements. 403-934-5666 Send Condolences