Obituary of Tony Aarts

With broken hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Tony Aarts on January 17^th, 2023 at the age of 91 at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital. Devoted husband to Gerdie Aarts (Joris). Loving father to Fran (Doug) Lambert, Frank Aarts, Nell (Pete) Smeekens, Ann Marie Croeze, Mia (late Steve, 2009) Boere. Cherished Opa & grandpa to Krista (Matt) Haan, Shelley Lambert (Greg Cummings), Sheldon Aarts, Jessica (Mike) Philbin, Nicole (Randy) Dare, Jeff Smeekens, Stephanie Smeekens, Dave Smeekens, Bradley Croeze, Caitlyn Croeze, Ashley Boere, Nikki Boere and Gregory Boere. Loving great grandpa & Opa to Evan, Benson, Link, Zander, Jack, Keegan, Sophie, Addison, Brody and Cole. Predeceased by parents Francisca (Vinken) Aarts (1937) and Petrus Aarts (1981).  Survived by his sister Dina Aarts. Predeceased by his siblings Willem, Piet, Marietje, Johan and Noud. Tony will be fondly remembered by the Joris family. He will be missed and remembered by many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Tony immigrated to Canada in his early 20’s. He started working in construction, then purchased a family farm, growing crops and tending to livestock. Tony drove a school bus in his spare time then later spending his time chicken farming. He had a love for dancing, especially the Polka. He will be remembered for his selfless love, his generosity, his unconditional love for his family, and always taking care of those around him.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Dr. Buma and the caring compassionate staff at SMGH for their excellent care.  

A private immediate family Visitation and Mass will be held at All Saints Roman Catholic Church. As an expression of sympathy, donations to The Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences and donations may be made at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted to DENNING’S OF STRATHROY.

The Funeral Mass will be livestreamed on Saturday, January 21st, 2023 at 2:00pm for those who wish to join the family virtually.