July 13, 1941 - March 21, 2022
In loving memory ~
We have had to say "Good-bye for now" to a very beloved someone:- Ernest(ErnieorVan)D. VanDresar. He was born in Prince Albert, Sask., just before midnight, Friday July 13th, 1941, to Nellie and Howard, both deceased. He passed into our Lord's care March 21st, 2022 from an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
Left to cherish his memory, is his wife of 41 years, Kathie, son Wade (Andrea), stepdaughters Maralee VanDresar and Lorrie (Jeff) Beliveau, grandsons Stefan (Paige) with great grandson Liam, Chris (Kristine) with infant great grandaughter Regan VanDresar, and Owen (Faith) and Ethan (Kiley) Beliveau. He also is survived by his much loved brother Jerry, sister Grace Parsons and their families, many dear extended family members and friends.
When 17, Van joined the Canadian Navy only to find himself squadron leader of men almost twice his age. Growing up became urgent! After a few trips behind "the hut" he earned their respect and loyalty, not to mention cuts, bruises and black eyes. Those five years with them provided a solid step into becoming a remarkable, complex, and deep person. His insight into his own flaws created a warm, kind understanding of others. Van had a greatness of heart and generosity of spirit, illuminating the high caliber of his teaching, coaching, refereeing, and all his other endeavors. He loved camping, boating, fishing, travelling and meeting friends, both old and new. His baking, cooking, barbecuing, hosting and organizing skills were legendary. He was the "go-to" guy in any kind of storm, both on land and water. He loved all kinds of sports and strongly encouraged good sportsmanship. In the 1980's his chronic, severe pain and annoyingly loud tinnitus started hampering his poor hearing further:- just another challenge he tried to take in stride. Somehow he continued to smile and to have a sensitivity that cheered sad souls. He still swung me around the dance floor with a full length leg cast while propped against a pillar.
Gratitude goes to the support and expertise given to us by Dr. Al Richardson so long ago in the rebuilding of Van's right leg, and more recently, from Dr. Long, Dr. Rankin, Aeden(OT) and his stalwart assistant Neil, Tyson from Southward Medical, and all the nurses from Community Care who provided wound and palliative skills and supplies, nurses on 6th floor at VJH and at Hospice House. They gave us sustenance in an otherwise overwhelming, painful time. You gave excellent care. You embraced Van's dignity. Thank you from the depths of my heart.
Van requested that there be no service for him and that his ashes be spread on his special place by a few family members.
Honoring Van's memory isn't hard:- just pass on loving kindness, smiles and generosity; work hard and "Eeeaarrrnn It!" Then, be grateful for what you have and share the best of yourself. Try to always take the high road. He would like that.
His life was full. He felt it was time for the next great adventure.
"Van, please pass on our love and hugs to those who have preceded us. Until we dance again... We'll miss you."