March 10, 1930 - March 6, 2024
We give thanks for the life of Leonard Van Raamsdonk, who went to be with his Lord on March 6, 2024 at the age of 93. He was a dedicated servant of Christ, and a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was married to Shirley Span for 70 years, and together they walked faithfully with the Lord.
Len was born in Oud-Beijerland, the Netherlands, to the late Pieter and Marie van Raamsdonk. He grew up in a family of seven children, and he was the only one to immigrate to Canada, although many family members came to visit. Len lived through World War II as a teenager, and remembered especially the Hunger Winter, and the liberation by the Canadians. In 1951, Len immigrated to Kingston, Ontario and met Shirley, who had also just immigrated, and they were married two years later. Len worked in different trades: farming, construction, custodial service, and his last eleven years of employment as a special constable for the police force in Georgetown, Ontario.
Len was deeply committed to the Lord and to living out his faith. He served the church in many ways, including Cadets, Friendship Club, and choir, and was a strong supporter of Christian education. Len especially loved singing, both in church or at home, in the choir or in worship, playing the organ, guitar or harmonica, and in all things praising the Lord. He also loved God’s creation, and always had beautiful flower gardens and a generous vegetable garden each year. Especially after his retirement he loved being creative in the woodshop, blessing many people with his handiwork. We will miss his humor, singing, stories, and his deep love for his family and for God.
Len is preceded in death by daughter Mary Corner, son-in-law Gordon Kralt, and great-grandson Malachi Van Raamsdonk. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Shirley, their children, Bob Corner, John and Laureen Van Raamsdonk, Teresa and Andrew Ponsen, Caroline Kralt, Jennifer and Paul Brink; their grandchildren, Sarah (Ryan), Angela (Ryan), Deborah (Zach), Daniel, Leah (Adam), Bethany; Jodi (Jason), Peter (Cassie), Brittany (Brenden), Eric (Dona), Larissa (Daren), Richard (Amy); Dan (Cheryl), Felicia (Shane); Justin (Meredith), Matt (Kelsey), Alicia (Jay), David; Jesse (Jackie), Erin (AJ), Annika (Calvin); as well as their 27 great-grandchildren. Also remembered in love by Len’s surviving siblings in the Netherlands, Pleunie (Sirach), and Piet (Gerrie), as well as many Span family members. We rejoice that Leonard is now welcomed into eternal life. To God be the Glory!
Following a private interment, the Memorial Service will take place on Tuesday, March 12 at 2:00 p.m. at Heritage Christian Reformed Church, 7900 McLaughlin Road, S., Brampton, Ontario, with a reception to follow. Service will be live streamed for those unable to attend.
Please note that parking is very limited at Holland Christian Homes, and additional parking can be found behind King Tower. There is on-street parking in the surrounding neighbourhoods, or paid parking at Sheridan College. To access Heritage CRC, please enter at the main entrance to Holland Christian Homes.
Arrangements entrusted to Jones Funeral Home