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With great sadness, but hearts full of cherished memories, our family announces the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and Opa, on April 19, at home, surrounded by the love of his family. Martin leaves behind his soulmate, dedicated, loving wife of 58 years, Catherine Vanrooy (Loomans). Cherished, loved, respected father to David Vanrooy, Rebecca Lennon (Robert), Christopher Vanrooy (Sheila), Rosemarie Vanrooy (Rick Minion). Martin was a proud, adored and abundantly loved grandfather to Katelyn and Amanda Lennon, Colin Vanrooy (Kateryna Shelest), and step-grandchildren, Matt (Laryssa) and Daniella. He was a loving Opa to Lincoln, Oakley, Ben and Wyatt, who brought him immense joy.
Martin could often be found enjoying the peacefulness of the water’s edge, watching the sunrise and reflecting quietly – moments that brought him great peace. His love of fishing and appreciation for nature have been lovingly carried on by his children and grandchildren.
From an early age, Martin was a hard worker. His wisdom, attention to detail, honesty, perseverance, and yes, his stubbornness, were matched by his gentleness, caring, kindness, compassion, empathy, fairness and sense of humour. He gave the best advice – and the best hugs. He led by example, instilling these values on his children.
Martin retired from tobacco farming in 1995 and, after 21 years of dedicated service with Green Horizons Hamilton Sod Farms in Hamilton, he retired in 2026.
Martin was predeceased by his infant daughter, Lisa Adriana; grandson, Robert Jewitt; his parents, Marinus and Anna Maria Vanrooy his sister, Dora Vanrooy (Verhaege); sister-in-law, Edith Vanrooy (Terpstra); brothers, John and Tony Vanrooy; his father-and mother-in-law, Anthony and Adriana Loomans (Lambregts); sister-in-law, Agatha Campion (Loomans), and Bonaventure (Bonch) Loomans, nephews, Lee Loomans and Timothy Feeney.
He is survived by his brothers, Bill (Joanne), Maro (Anne) and Riny Vanrooy, and by his in-laws, Marian Vanrooy, Helena Feeney, Lyn Loomans, Pete (Rose) Loomans, Tony (Doreen) Loomans, Audrey Loomans and Paula Loomans.
He will be deeply missed by his many nieces and nephews and cousins in the Netherlands.
If you really knew Martin, he was a very private man. In honour of his final wishes, his illness was kept within his “small circle.” Respecting his wishes, cremation has taken place at Tranquility Burial and Cremation, with no visitation or funeral. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in Martin’s memory can be made to the The Who Did It Club Simcoe, Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice, or a charity of your choice and would be gratefully appreciated by the family. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Melissa, Katie, Nikki and Abbey from Care Partners, as well as Dr. Evans, Dr. Austin, Dr. Kennedy and Dr. Baloush for all of their compassionate and exceptional care.
Where the sun rises and the water is still, we will find you.
Rest in peace until we meet again. XO
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Our goal is providing a low cost, all inclusive alternative to traditional funeral homes for those who value a respectful and modern approach to funeral care. Whether your choice is direct cremation, burial or a personalized memorial service to celebrate a life, we will strive to make your wishes a reality.