Tribute Wall
Friday
3
June
Visitation
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Friday, June 3, 2022
Goulet Funeral Home
310 Argyle Street S
Renfrew, Ontario, Canada
Friday
3
June
Visitation
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Friday, June 3, 2022
Goulet Funeral Home
310 Argyle Street S
Renfrew, Ontario, Canada
Saturday
4
June
Mass of Christian Burial
10:00 am
Saturday, June 4, 2022
St. Francis Xavier Church
Plaunt Street
Renfrew, Ontario, Canada
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Lewis MacDonald pledged to donate to Make a Wish Foundation
Tuesday, July 12, 2022
In memory of John Berkhout, an exemplary human being.
Lewis and Maureen MacDonald
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Fred Blacksteinn posted a condolence
Saturday, June 11, 2022
Many of John's accomplishments were noted in his beautifully written obituary. However, I'd like to add that his contributions to the largest event ever held in Renfrew County were immeasurable. As Co-Chair of the Tourism Committee at the 1994 Internmational Plowing Match, his dedication and energy were a model for all of us. This "Celebration of Rural Living" drew over 130,000 visitors and concluded with enough surplus funding to launch our 911 Emergency Telephone Service.
Fred Blackstein
Former Chairman, 1994 IPM
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Hank Molenaar lit a candle
Thursday, June 9, 2022
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John & I grew up together in Holland. We were best friends. John & his family immigrated to Canada in 1952 & our family followed in 1953. We soon reconnected in Canada. When John bought 'Storyland' - we often visited him & his family & God bless him, he never charged us the entry fee ! R.I.P. my friend & many thanks for the memories............HANK MOLENAAR
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John Ficner posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
So sorry to hear of John's passing. A wonderful human being who gave pleasure to so many with his Storyland. He presented my son with an opportunity to perform his puppet work at the park. I often think about John, and his wonderful work.
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KAREN L BLACKIE lit a candle
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
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Like millions of others, I too visited Storyland! With a family cottage on Golden Lake in Renfrew county, it was always the intent for my parents to bring us to visit, but "they never had the time", so when my children were of a certain age, I made certain to make the visit! I have amazing pictures of my younger daughter "caught in Miss Muffet's spider web", and amazing memories of riding the swan boats around the lake, and for myself, I still remember the thrill that came when I saw the view at the top of the hiking trail...such a beautiful Ottawa Valley we have!
Thank You, Mr. Berkhout - for following your dream, and giving it so freely to so many others! God Bless You, and R.I.P....
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Elaine Kassam posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
So sorry to the entire family to hear of John's passing. I have such fond memories of being adopted into the family, like so many others, over the summers working at Storyland. Sending hugs to you all. Elaine McMaster Kassam
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Sylvia and John posted a condolence
Monday, June 6, 2022
Dear cousins and Aunt Nancy,
Thinking of all the fond memories of Uncle John. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May the many happy memories you have help you through this very sad time. Uncle John always loved to have a good time and that is what I will always remember. Love to all of you.
Sylvia, John and family
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Chris Feitler lit a candle
Monday, June 6, 2022
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To Derek and his whole family. My heart is sadden to learn of your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I was reading the memoir, and John sure was one of a kind; a person who lead a truly remarkable life. I know he will be greatly missed, but his kind and gentle spirit will remain with you all forever.
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Anne Chapeski posted a condolence
Monday, June 6, 2022
So very sorry to hear of John's passing, Nancy and family. He will always hold a special place in my heart! John was not only a long time neighbor of ours, employer and friend. I will truly miss his friendly smile and chats every time we met! Rest in peace John.
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Kevin Dunbar posted a condolence
Monday, June 6, 2022
My condolences Nancy and to Juanita, Virginia, Dan, Derek, Tom, Chris, Marty, Mike and Bill and families.
John has always been in my life from when I was young boy exploring Storyland to church events over the years and singing in the choir together. He even made an appearance at my 50th birthday celebrations. I have many fond memories of John. I am so sorry to hear that he has passed. My heart goes out to all the family at this difficult time.
Kevin
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Dave Beaulne posted a condolence
Sunday, June 5, 2022
Dear Nancy and family.
Please accept our deepest condolences on John's passing. He was a wonderful man who could instantly cheer people up with a kind regard and loving wink. With all he had going on in life, between a large family and a busy business at Storyland, he still found a way to forge deep connections with me, and many others. I am so grateful for his, and your, friendship with me and my family over the years, but more particularly for attending our wedding in 1998 and the special attention he paid to our kids on our visits to Storyland, and beyond.
He will be missed but never forgotten.
Dave (and Marianne, Joey and Mikey) Beaulne
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Paul & Indica uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, June 4, 2022
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Dear Aunty Nancy and family,
Our sincere condolences on the passing of Uncle John. When I think of him, a huge smile comes to my face. His laughter, thoughtfulness, great sense of humor and compassion were just so clear to see. His life was a blessing to so many people, I thank God for being part of this family.
Here is a picture of Andrew on his first birthday with Uncle John at Storyland. I think he was actually trying to tempt Andrew with the cake. :)
We love you all so much.
God bless,
Paul, Indica, Andrew, Archana, Nathan and Olivia
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Tania Renelli posted a condolence
Saturday, June 4, 2022
I will always remember John as a gentle giant with a heart of gold. His booming voice made him seem huge and he was always singing, humming or whistling. You felt special in his presence. A man who made the most of life and was surrounded by children - his own large family as well as all those Storyland visitors. Every time I see a pair of wooden shoes I think of John. Sending my deepest condolences to his family.
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Marie Brydges posted a condolence
Saturday, June 4, 2022
Dear Nancy Billy and all family members,
I extend my most sincere sympathies on the passing of your beloved John. He was an exceptional man and will be dearly missed.
Sending love and prayers
Marie Brydges
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Paula Manion posted a condolence
Friday, June 3, 2022
My condolences to the entire Berkhout family. I have a lot of fond memories of John and his never ending smile. In my thoughts and prayers ❤️
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Pam Selkirk posted a condolence
Friday, June 3, 2022
Nancy and family,
It was so heartwarming to attend the wake for John, and see the smiling faces of his beautiful family. I remember, fondly, the early days of John coming to the dental office with all 5 of his lovely children. I was happy when he met Nancy and their family grew in numbers. What a joy it was for me to see them all grown up with children of their own. John has touched many lives and he will be missed.
Pam Selkirk.
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RBC pledged to donate to Make a Wish Foundation
Friday, June 3, 2022
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Keeping everyone in our thoughts and prayers. Your RBC Family
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Joan Dick posted a condolence
Friday, June 3, 2022
Dear Nancy and family, My deepest sympathy to all of you for the loss of a dear husband , father and grandfather. I have known John since 1966 when I came to Renfrew with my family. John worked for my Dad, Bill Child in the Bank of Montreal until he retired in 1973. I always remember his smile, warmth and friendliness. We mourned with him when he lost Maria. Shortly after meeting Nancy they came to our home for a party. It was obvious they were crazy about each other! We were happy that they found each other. A son Bill arrived and began many busy happy years . As often happens in life John experienced some years of decline but was surrounded with the love of Nancy and his family . He has earned his rest after a life well lived with hard work, kindness and devotion.
With love, Joan Dick ( late Dr. Art Dick)
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Kevin & Jan O'Rourke posted a condolence
Thursday, June 2, 2022
Derek, Jo, Raeya & Thys, and the Berkhout Family,
Our sincere sympathy to all of you on the passing of John. I remember him as a very kind and lively man the few times we met. Quick to smile and eager to tell a story. Wonderful stories and memories will be yours to keep forever. A very beautifully written obituary.
Thinking of you all.
Kevin & Jan O'Rourke (McCarthy) & family
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Derek Berkhout Posted Jun 6, 2022 at 8:12 PM
Thank you Jan and Kevin for your support to my family as we navigate the loss we are experiencing. Jo, Raeya, Thys and I had many great experiences with him over the years as he would join us often in Bracebridge. Whether it was dressing up for Halloween with the kids, taking them for a birthday shopping spree or attending school plays, he was always actively engaged in our lives.
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Debbie Iob posted a condolence
Thursday, June 2, 2022
My deepest sympathies to you Nancy, Virginia & all the family on the passing of your beloved husband & father. Thinking of you all, & praying for comfort, peace & strength in the days ahead. Such beautiful childhood memories of Storyland as it was the highlight of every summer growing up.
The obituary was so beautifully written.
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Ed Lamb posted a condolence
Thursday, June 2, 2022
I want to share how I became aware that John had come into Nancy's life.
She was raising her three little ones on her own on Quarry Street. It was winter. I lived near Toronto. I let her know that I would be in Renfrew on the weekend and that I would come by on Saturday mornring.
I arrived, Chris heard the doorbell and came down in his jammies to say that his mom would be down soon.
I made myself comfortable and went in and started to play the piano.
Within a couple of minutes, bounding down the stairs, her feet barely touching the steps, just before she came into the room where I was playing, I heard her say..."I didn't know you played the piano".
This was the morning after that sleigh ride where they met, out at the Stevenson's farm, cajoled, encouraged, "come on Nancy, you have to get out of the house once in a while......there is someone we'd like you to meet".
For Nancy that morning, all thought of her old friend Ed vanished.....John was coming over for coffee.
A wonderful friend to me and to so many. I always was made to feel welcome at family gatherings in the valley and in Toronto.
You will be missed, you will be remembered, your spirit is with us.
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Bonnie Hardy posted a condolence
Thursday, June 2, 2022
So sorry for your loss Nancy and family. I had many chats with John. He was a very nice man.
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virginia maclaren posted a condolence
Thursday, June 2, 2022
I am so sorry to here of John's passing. He was such an amazing man who made growing up so much fun. We went to Storyland as children, then I went with students in the classrooms I was in, and finally I got to take my own son there. Such amazing memories. Nancy and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers as you travel this new road. May God hold you all in the palm of His hands and provide the comfort you need. John is only a memory away. Cherish all you have. Virginia MacLaren
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Andy & Teresa Miller posted a condolence
Thursday, June 2, 2022
Our deepest sympathies on the passing of John. A great neighbor and employeed our daughter. A beautiful heart for children and all people.
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Beverley Garlough posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing and have many happy memories of a kind soul with a wonderful sense of humour. Nancy I remember well when you and John met and I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences to the family.
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Sylvia Yates posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
My sincere condolences to Nancy and the family. Your husband/father was a kind and vivacious soul. Always a friendly smile and a warm hello to all.
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Diana Wakely posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
My heart goes out to the whole family. A wonderful man who always had a good word and warm smile. RIP John
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Suze Berkhout uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
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So many beautiful memories, sending all our love
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Rose and M.J. Curley posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
I am so, so sorry to hear of John's passing. I came to know John well through his participation as a member of the Horton Township Planning Committee. He was always so pleasant to work with and I totally enjoyed his subtle sense of humor.
Nancy, you have always been his rock, especially the last few years and my heart goes out to you through this difficult time. Thoughts and prayers to all of John's family and friends.
Rose and M.J. Curley
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Andrea Readman posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Much love to you all. I am so sorry for your loss. John was one of the warmest most genuine people I have met in my lifetime and the many cherished memories I have of him and our time with your family will be with us always. Much love, Andrea Readman
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Sister Sheila Whelan posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
My sincere condolences, to you Dan and the rest of the family on the death of your Father. I remember him and various members of your family from COR days, oh so long ago.
May he rest in peace.
God bless!
Sister Sheila Whelan
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Mike McCann posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
I’m so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences to the entire Berkhout family. I hope the great moments shared with John help to ease your grief.
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Tracey posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
I was lucky enough to know you as a kind and loving father who always welcomed me into your home. God bless you and send you to the angels.
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Agustin Codina posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Please except our heart felt condolences, may you find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Isabel and Agustin Codina
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Kathryn E Windle posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Nancy and family,
Please accept my sincere sympathy during this time of loss. John was the life of any room and always ready to share experiences that might help others. His kindness and caring could be heard in his tone and he was a stellar member of any community. John’s countless contributions to economic development and tourism will be remembered forever and his presence will surely be missed by many. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless. Hugs
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Ann McQuade posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
I am so sorry Nancy to hear about your husband John passing.
There are so many special memories from the times my family spent at story land.
My condolences to the family.
Ann McQuade
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Allan and Heather Clarke posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Our deepest sympathy to all the Berkhout family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Allan & Heather Clarke
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Rosemary Stringer posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Nancy and family, we were sorry to hear of John’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time.
Bob and Rosemary Stringer
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Janice L Campbell posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
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Hello...I just heard the news. It's Janice your neighbour from down the hill. Many many happy memories from way back when. Traveling on the school bus, going to Storyland, our chats at Hennessey's . Working at the Old Town Hall Tearoom. Serving you and the Dickes. The memories of great times shared with all of you. I always keep you tuck away in my heart. Big hugs...thinking of all of you at this time.
Janice L Campbell
PS I wish I could find Nancy the pic of you and John at the RCI reunion back when. ..and Danny and Genn the pic of us at the Tea Room way way back.Take Care
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Dan Berkhout Posted Jun 3, 2022 at 8:13 AM
Thank you Janice truly appreciate it. We are going to miss him dearly he has created so many memories as you have pointed out. Genn and I no longer live in the Niagara region but live in Spencerville. If you would like to come and see us sometime or if you were able to make it to the wake or funeral please do so. God bless you!
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Pat Duchesne posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Derek I am very sorry to hear about your father my thoughts are with you and your family.
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Jane Nesbitt posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Nancy and family
Deepest condolences on John’s passing. He was a lovely man who served not only his family but his community well.
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David Anderson posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Nancy and Family,
Sharing your sadness as you remember John. I had the opportunity/pleasure of both meeting and working with John starting in 1984 at the start of my working career. Shelley also worked for John at Storyland as a summer Tourism student. John took the helm of the Renfrew County Travel Association and advanced the Renfrew County Tourism Industry in the Ottawa Valley. Who better to mentor with and learn the industry from than a man who was a banker/marketier extraordinaire and Storyland Business owner. John lead\guided the tourist association by firstly changing its name to the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association and then he along with support of others turned the new association into a successful “marketing machine”. He gave freely of his time/knowledge and energy all while raising a family and successfully growing Storyland. John’s legacy lives on as his name is positively linked to the industry he helped grow in the Ottawa Valley. He touched many lives, brought many smiles to those who experienced Storyland and the Ottawa Valley.
John is Gone But Not Forgotten, his legacy lives on.
Sincere Condolences,
David and Shelley Anderson
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Jayne Brophy posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
I was saddened to learn of John's death. I have many memories of conversations we have had over the years at Tourism events . . . and when he allowed us to display 'the rabbit' at Pembroke Mall! May the memories you cherish as a family, bring you comfort in the days to come . . .as I sang at my Mom's funeral 'Life Has Changed Not Ended' . . he will be with you each and everyday! With sympathy, prayers and understanding.
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Eve posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Dear Nancy and your whole wonderful family! I am so sorry to see that John has passed. He was a remarkable man, outstanding in his personal and professional life.
My deepest sympathy to you and all. Hugs.
Eve Yantha
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Albert & Therese Dunbar posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Dear Nancy and Berkhout Family. We are saddened to learn of John’s passing. Many memories of John have flooded our minds since hearing the news. Memories that go back to the early days when the Berkhout Family moved into Storyland. We are reminded of John’s singing and the Berkhout Family’s involvement with the music at Saint James Parish. John hired and help groom several members of the Dunbar Family with a summer job at Storyland. We think of the piano lessons at the Berkhout home where Nancy trained Tania with the skill we enjoy often. We are reminiscent of the way John worked to promote local business and the support offered us over the years. A kinder more generous fellow you will not meet. He has left his mark and will live on in the wonderful family he leaves behind.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
May He Rest In Peace.
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MJ Enright posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
My sincerest condolences to Nancy, Juanita, Virgina and all of John's family. The several summers that I spent hanging out with Virginia (and friends) at Garden Lake and Storyland are some of the happiest memories of my life. No matter how many teenagers there were "hanging out", John always made us feel welcome. I'm always amazed at just how many lives one person's life touches. John I would think touched more than average, with the throngs of wide eyed children that enjoyed Storyland over the years...mine included. He will be missed. Know that our prayers are with you at this time.
MJ Enright and family.
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Anne Guest and Ben Blommesteijn lit a candle
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
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Although Ben and I met John in the last few years, we really enjoyed our times together with he and Nancy. Ben had a Dutch connection with John and they shared many stories, often in Dutch. John was a kind and caring man and he will be missed greatly by all his friends and family. Sending our love and condolences to Nancy and all his loving family.
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Susanna Roloff Mickiewicz posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
My dearest cousins and Nancy,
I’m saddened to hear of Uncles John’s passing. Living so far away from him, I wasn’t able to see him much. He was a bright light! I so enjoyed talking with him. I wish I could come and celebrate his life with all of you. My deepest condolences
Susanna Roloff Mickiewicz
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Kendra Laventure posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
Dearest Nancy and family. Our thoughts are with all of you through this difficult time. We will fondly remember all those dinners we had together at your Storyland house, the visits, running through the park after it closed in the fall, bbq’s and swimming at the cottage and all the joy that came during our years of friendship. Take care and know we are thinking of you. All our love, prayers and hugs. Bonnie and Kendra Laventure
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Sam Berkhout uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
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Jantje has gone home! In Dutch, the addition of “tje” to one’s name meant the little version, in this case “Jan.” Jantje and I always greeted each other this way. (Except, I was Siempie,“tje” did not work here.) I’ll miss you Jantje!
Photo is of the 4 Berkhout’s, Gerry, Jack, Siempie and Jantje in 1943
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Anne English posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
Nancy and family, there are no words to express how very sorry I am to read of John’s passing! He will always be a legend in the hearts of SO many families with whom he shared his amazing dream at Storyland! My sincere condolences to all! May John Rest in Peace
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Ed Rousselle posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
My sincere condolences to all the Berkhout family….. One never forgets the kindness shown by John to our family as we all grew and were able to be a part of the Storyland Crew….. we are forever grateful to this wonderful man and family. God bless each and every one of you
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Johanna Mathieu lit a candle
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
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My sincerest sympathy to you, Nancy & your family, on John's passing. May he rest in peace.
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The family of Johannes "John" Gerardus Berkhout uploaded a photo
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
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About Us
"Family Traditions, Caring, Affordable Service and Attention To Detail"
This is what we believe in and what we offer to families that place their trust in us. We strive to set the standard for quality funeral service in Renfrew and the surrounding area.
Our Location
310 Argyle Street South
Renfrew, Ontario K7V 1T9
Tel: (613) 432-2849
Fax: (613) 432-7358
