Nick VanderZalm of Surrey BC, died peacefully, surrounded by his family, after suffering a massive stroke on Sunday, January 29th, 2012. He was born on August 17, 1929 in Noordwijkerhout, Netherlands and left Holland with his parents and siblings in 1947, settling in Aldergrove, BC.  With his 3 younger brothers they first set up a large, local produce stand – Fraser Valley Market – which eventually led to the  chain of nurseries, Art Knapp’s.  During this time he met the one and only love of his life, Joan Erickson, and they married on September 5, 1956.  Nick was surrounded by a family of larger than life personalities but he carved out his own niche with his hard working, gentle ways.  On the rare occasion when Uncle Nick spoke sternly, all listened. He was generous with his time and money, devoting many hours to his church and hosting innumerable family gatherings. The love his children and grandchildren held for him was demonstrated by the weekly Sunday dinners enjoyed with him and Joan as they played their game of dominos. He is survived by his wife Joan, his 5 children Debbie (Mike Cloutier), David (Cindy), Wim (Allison), Cindy (Mark Browne), Sarah (Mike Haugen) and 10 grandchildren Brittany, Laura, Kathleen, Marie, Matthew, Ashley, Nicolaas, Jessica, Alicia, and Madelaine.
Prayers will be held on Friday, February 3, 2012 at 7 pm. at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, 330 Royal Avenue, New Westminster, BC.  The Funeral Mass will follow on Saturday, February 4, 2012  at 10 a.m. with interment at Gardens of Gethsemeni. 15800 32nd Avenue, Surrey, BC.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nick’s memory to Covenant House.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones” Ps 115