Henry passed away on November 9th, at the great age of 90, in his own home as he wished. “The Count” leaves behind his children Astrid (Rick) and Derek (Janet) and his grandchildren Rachel, Jack and Ben. He is pre-deceased by his wife of 49 years, Maureen (2013).
Dad lived a most remarkable life. Born in Indonesia, he spent 3 years in a Prisoner of War camp at an early age during World War II. He later lived in South Africa, Australia and Britain to complete his education, settling in Toronto where he met Maureen.
Henry was the son of Han and Mies Levelt who were in the Netherlands diplomatic service. His lovely sisters, Hilke and Marijke of the Netherlands, both pre-deceased him.
Henry’s remarkable life included a successful career as an engineer and business leader, and later, a consultant. His career took him from Toronto to Montreal, and then Vancouver where he and Maureen lived since 1977.
Dad will be remembered for his fortitude, resilience, generosity, and humour...and his love of a good argument. He appreciated great dinner parties and enjoyed travel, the symphony and theatre.
We will be forever grateful to Susan, his caregiver of more than 7 years, and her sister, Geraldine who later joined the team ensuring his excellent quality of life, and allowed dad to stay in his own home. We are grateful to the physicians and care teams at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, who cared for dad through many health events, and especially Dr. Janet Kow who cared for Henry over the past 7 months. With appreciation and in Dad’s memory, the family has established a memorial fund at St. Paul’s Foundation.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1pm on Friday, November 19 at St. Augustine’s Church (2028 West 7th, Vancouver). Due to COVID, the family will hold a small celebration of Henry’s great life by invitation.