Michiel Cornelis Bernardus "Mike" van den Hof

Michiel Cornelis Bernardus "Mike" van den Hof, loving husband, beloved father and opa to many, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at the age of 98 in the Veteran’s Unit, Soldiers Memorial Hospital. Born on June 24, 1926, in Heteren, the Netherlands, he was the son of the late Michiel and Wilhelmina (Schok) van den Hof.

Mike often spoke of growing up on de Fruithof, the family farm in Heteren, with his 10 brothers and sisters. The farm still remains in the family, and he visited many times over the years. He told many stories of how he helped his community and country during World War II and after, the beginning of a lifelong dedication to service in his community.

He met his sweetheart, Gerda, while she was working as a volunteer in Heteren. They married in 1952 and shortly after immigrated to Canada. After spending seven years working as a farm hand and construction worker, he bought a farm in Weston, NS and then in the early 1970’s started his own construction company, which became Holland Home Leisure.

Mike was proud of his Dutch heritage, but equally proud to be a Canadian. He and Gerda decided to become Canadian citizens in 1967 as part of Canada’s Centennial year.

Mike valued time spent with family and friends and was happiest when he was surrounded by the people he loved. He was very proud of his children and their spouses. He adored all his grandchildren and great grandchildren and became Opa to all their friends as well. He loved big family dinners, having hot dog roasts at the shore, and spending time around the pool in Weston. Many evenings were spent with friends playing cards and telling stories.

He was a true friend to many and was always available to lend a helping hand. In early years, the house was often filled with children who came to stay for a variety of reasons. Mike and Gerda never said, "no". In later years he cared for many sick friends, always there to do what was needed, hold a hand and bring comfort.

Mike was a member of the Berwick Lions Club for over 50 years where he faithfully volunteered for Bingo and catering. He could be found at the Lions Hall peeling potatoes for many a banquet, and he truly enjoyed preparing the Christmas hampers for families in need. He was a founding member of the Kentville Christian Reformed Church.

Mike is survived by his daughter, Annette (Paul) Iannaccone, Morden, and sons, Michael (Debby), Sheffield Mills, and Ralph (Patty), Somerset; brother, Nicolaas (Nico), Netherlands; sister-in-law, Hetty (Henk) Bosveld, Lakeville; eight grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

Mike was predeceased by his parents, his loving wife, Gerda, beloved great granddaughter, Madison, six sisters, Euphrisina (Zus), Gerritje (Gerda), Wilhelmina (Mien), Heiltje, Theodora (Doe), Maria (Riet) and three brothers, Cornelis (Broer), Bernardus (Ben), and Petrus (Piet).

Mike’s last years were spent in the Veteran’s Unit at Soldiers Memorial Hospital, and we would like to extend a big thank you to all staff who so lovingly cared for him.

A celebration of life service will be held at Kings Presbyterian Church, New Minas on September 15, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Mike Veenema officiating. Reception to follow. For those unable to attend, a webcast of the service will be available on Monday, September 16th. Donations in memory may be made to the Soldiers Memorial Hospital Foundation - Capital Campaign, Veterans' Patio or the Berwick Lions Club. Arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.