BERNARD (BEN) SMOLDERS

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BERNARD (BEN) SMOLDERS 1923 2012 Peacefully, on Thursday, July 12, 2012 at Vista Park Lodge, Bernard Smolders passed away at the age of 89 years. Dad will be missed by children: Bernard Jr.; Mona; Rob (Debbie) and numerous grandchildren; nieces; nephews; sister-in-law Tina Smolders; and Will (Marg) deWildt. He was predeceased by: his son Paul in 1976; two brothers, Hans and Robert. Dad was born in the Netherlands on May 7, 1923. He trained as a chef in the Netherlands. During the Second World War, he spent three years in a forced labour camp in Germany. In 1953 he immigrated to Canada along with his ex-spouse (Mimi) and two sons. He continued his career as a chef, working in various northern locations in Canada such as Alert, Mo Bay, DEW Line until his retirement. Dad built the family cottage. He loved the peaceful serenity of the great outdoors . We spent many summers at the cottage, as well as camping; fishing, swimming and hiking. Dad also enjoyed our walks in St. Vital Park, was an avid reader and birder. Prior to dad's illness, we enjoyed many a Sunday breakfast together. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of dad's life will be at a later date. The family wishes to thank the staff at Vista Park Lodge for the great care they gave Dad. In memory of Ben, donations may be made to the Lac du Bonnet Wildlife Association or the Human Rights Museum.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 21, 2012