Obituary of Petrus Johannes Smolders

On Wednesday, November 30th, 2016. Peter Smolders of Alvinston and formerly of Forest at the age of 69. Loving husband of Bertie Smolders, father of Iwan (Sonia), Frances (Larry) and Hanneke and Opa of Sebastian, Katrina, Sadie and Cody. Visitation will be held at Denning’s of Strathroy on Wednesday, December 7th, 2016 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm where a service will take place on Thursday at 11 am. Peter, a proud farmer through and through. Born in Eersel, The Netherlands in 1947 where he was raised along with 3 brothers and 5 sisters. Peter, along with his siblings lived on the family farm that had been passed from one generation to the next. Many fond memories were had on “de voort”, and Peter kept the tradition alive when he ultimately took over the farm, starting his own family with Bertie. His heart took him to Canada in 1993 along with Bertie and their three children. He continued to farm but semi-retired as a school bus driver later in life. Peter would often talk about driving bus, it gave him a purpose in life, one that he fulfilled until the very end. His passion to farm continued and he could often be found on Iwan’s farm. He loved spending time with his kids and grandkids; often creating a make-shift campground to accommodate Frances and family. He was proud of his children’s accomplishments and saddened that he could not make Hanneke’s graduation as she got her Master’s degree. Peter was one proud Dad. He was also a devoted husband, caring for Bertie even when the going got rough. His family was his everything and he sacrificed to ensure their happiness and success. Peter, a proud father, husband, son, brother and farmer. You will be missed! For more information please call 519 245-1023 or visit www.denning.ca