30 Oct 1936 – 31 Dec 2023 (87)
1 PPCLI
On December 31, 2023, Sam peacefully passed away with the love of family enveloping him at the Extendicare Michener Hill, in Red Deer. He was predeceased by his parents Willem, Wapke (Wilma), and sister Nikkie. Sam will be lovingly remembered by his wife Margaret; daughters Colleen (Darrel), Eleanor (Kevan), Rosanna (Curtis); grandchildren Jessica (Cass), Meagan (Justyn), Braedon (Danielle), and Isaac; brothers Ted (Rachel), William; sister Elsie; nieces, nephews and many friends. Sam loved listening to his music, singing, reading, working in his yard, classic cars, and special weekends barbequing for his family. He worked for Sunlife until his retirement. At 18 years old, he joined the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry and was a peacekeeper in Germany for three years. He has received the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation and the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. He volunteered for numerous school activities for his daughters and was his grandchildren’s biggest fan in their many endeavours. He spent about 40 years helping newcomers and working with the local Legion during its annual poppy campaign and Remembrance Day activities. He also served as an honour guard at veterans’ funerals and visited residents at seniors’ care facilities. He loved traveling, taking many road trips throughout Canada and out of country trips to Netherlands, Paraguay, El Salvador, California, Las Vegas, and Mexico.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church 4718-50th Street Red Deer, Alberta. The family is sincerely grateful to the staff of the Extendicare Michener Hill, in Red Deer for their care in dad’s last years. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, Legion Poppy Fund or a place of their choice.
https://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/eventide/obituaries/sietze-sam-van-gunst/117442.html
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