Obituary of Matthew Bylhouwer

BYLHOUWER, Matthew Passed away peacefully, on May 13th, 2014. He will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by Pauline, his wife of 41 years; his children, Margaret Visser (Richard), Thea Todd (Troy), William (Lorrie), MaryAnn Deschamps, Chris (Keith), John (Sue), and Paul (Mary); by his step-children, Cora Steglinski (John), Ron Harinck (Kathy), Wendy Harinck; by his grandchildren, Tina (Billy), Clinton (Loretto), David (Brianne), Michael (Kristyn), Anna (Charles), Dan (Marilao), Brian (Amy), Melissa, Amanda, Derek (Sandra), Lori, Brandon, Colin, Jonathan, Peter, Simon; by his great-grandchildren, Bradley, Hayley, Tyler, Logan, Jenny, Donovan, Elizabeth, William, Emilie, Ethan, and Chloe. Matthew leaves behind a sister, Elisabeth, and was pre-deceased by his brothers Jacobus, Christianus, Hendricus, and by his sister, Cornelia. Matthew was born May 15th, 1925 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and immigrated to Canada in 1951 with his first wife, Anna Bertha (deceased 1971). He was a hard worker, dedicated to providing for his family, and always gave his very best in whatever he endeavoured to do. He worked at General Motors for over 30 years while also working on various farms in the Niagara Region. He was an active and devout member of his church, participating in the choir for many years. His passions included gardening and music. He was a member of the Robert Woods Choir for several years. He could often be heard whistling a happy tune. We extend our gratitude to the staff of Linhaven who provided excellent care during Matthew’s final years, and a special thank you to Dr. Collins. Family and friends will be received at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines on Friday, May 16th, from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Vigil prayers will be recited on Friday at 3 p.m. in the funeral home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Denis Roman Catholic Church, 230 Lake St., St. Catharines on Saturday, May 17th at 9 a.m. with interment to follow at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the “Friends of Linhaven” or to the Alzheimer Society of Canada would be greatly appreciated. **Please contact the funeral home if you make a donation online so we can send a card to the family on your behalf.