GROENENDYK, Cornelis “Kees”; Suddenly in Guelph on Monday, February 2, 2015, in his 73rd year. Loving husband of 45 years to Nora (Doyle), devoted father and grand-father of Kim, Dan and his wife Jennifer; their children Catrynaa, Jake, Tayte, Julia, Kaylee, Payton, Danika and Abel; and Bill and his wife Sarah and their children Haley, Haden and Gage. Beloved brother of Alice Gansekoele (the late Ralph), Mary Alkema (the late Tom), Bob Groenendyk and Joanne and Jim Koolsbergen. Predeceased by his parents Cornelis and Atje (van Wijngaarden). Kees leaves a loving imprint in the hearts of his many nieces, nephews, and extended family. Kees, or “Pedro” as he was affectionately known, immigrated from Holland to Fergus, Ontario in 1958. He promptly and proudly became a Canadian citizen. In 1996 he retired as Staff Sergeant from the Guelph Police Service after over 28 years of dedication to his job. Kees was also a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #234, where he spent many years setting up bingo, serving Sunday dinners and playing cards with his friends. He was a devoted family man and anyone who has crossed his path has heard a tale of his children, grandchildren, or a combination of the two. He doted on his grandkids, spending every possible minute he could with them, teaching them, enjoying them and learning along side them. He would firmly say “I don’t babysit! I spend quality time with my grandkids,” and they all cherish beautiful memories of his kind heart. He also enjoyed his retirement hobby of growing flowers in his greenhouse. When asked which flower was his favourite….”all of them,” he would say. Husband, Father, Grandfather, Friend, Stranger – all who crossed his path knew they could always count on him for help. He was a master of all trades and took great pride in sharing his knowledge, his tools and his time to help others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Visitation was held at the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph on Thursday, February 5, 2015 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Mass was celebrated at Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate, 28 Norfolk St., Guelph on Friday, February 6, 2015 at 10 a.m. Cremation followed. If so desired, donations to the Church of Our Lady Building Fund or the Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund, Branch #234 would be appreciated by his family.
