Tribute

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gerardus “Gerald” De Groot on June 28, 2026, at the age of 79. As per Gerald’s wishes, his body has been cremated.

Gerald is lovingly remembered by his wife, Elisabet “Betty” De Groot; his sons, Benjamin (Sarah) De Groot and Timothy (Mandy) De Groot; and his cherished grandsons, Bennett, Liam, and Hudson. He is also survived by his siblings, Kees De Groot and his family of Campbell River, and Lilian Pawliw and her family of Surrey; many nieces and nephews; and the many friends whose lives were touched by his quiet strength, kindness, and steady presence.

Gerald was predeceased by his parents, Laurentius and Anna De Groot, and by his siblings, Maria De Groot, Elma Falk, Cynthia Oulton, and Louis De Groot.

Born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on August 5, 1946, Gerald immigrated to Canada with his family as a young child. The family settled in Powell River, British Columbia, which Gerald proudly called home for the rest of his life. As the eldest of seven children, he developed a strong sense of responsibility early on—one that would guide him throughout his life.

Gerald believed deeply in the value of hard work and self-reliance, leading not through words but through example. Whether teaching his sons, helping his grandchildren, or sharing his knowledge with younger generations, he took pride in helping others learn to build a life for themselves.

Gerald found great joy in tending his beloved dahlias and caring for the family hobby farm. He had a passion for building, carpentry, and working with his hands. There seemed to be little he could not create, repair, or improve. Whether tackling a new project or bringing one of Betty’s ideas to life, he approached every task with patience, skill, and determination. If Betty imagined it, Gerald found a way to build it.

A man of faith, Gerald’s life was guided by strong values, quiet devotion, and a commitment to serving others through his actions. Though he was not a man of many words, those who knew him understood the depth of his love through the way he cared for his family, shared his knowledge, and worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved.

Gerald’s legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the things he built, the flowers he nurtured, and the family he loved so deeply. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to join us in celebrating Gerald’s life on what would have been his 80th birthday, August 5, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Shingle Mill in Powell River, British Columbia. The gathering will be a time to share stories, memories, and fellowship as we remember Gerald, celebrate the life he lived, and honour the legacy he leaves behind.