DR. DESMOND VAN JAARSVELDT

Condolences & Memories (49 entries)

• Doctor Van was mine and my son’s doctor for about 30 years. The best bedside manners. Wonderful and caring and funny!! I am so sorry to hear of this news. My heart goes out to his wife and family. I will miss him for sure. - Posted by: Ken (Patient) on: Jun 02, 2026

• We are deeply sorry for the loss to your family of a truly incredible man, and an amazing human being, and the most caring, compassionate and understanding doctor we have ever had in our lives. As patients for 20 years we are more than heartbroken for your loss. Desmond has touched our hearts more than just being our doctor always feeling more like family, never letting us leave his office without a great big hug. The impact of knowing him will be everlasting. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you. Anita and Richard LeBleu - Posted by: Anita and Richard LeBleu (Patients) on: Jun 01, 2026

• Dr Van was such an amazing Dr. He’s been our family Dr for almost 30 years and has certainly helped our family through some trying times. I thank you for all that you have done in caring for my parents and family. He was the best! RIP Dr Van, you will be missed. My deepest condolences to his family and staff at Pembina Medical Clinic. - Posted by: Sean Warnier (Patient) on: May 29, 2026

• We are so sorry for your loss. We first met Dr.Van shortly after he arrived at Lakewood Medical Clinic. We switched to him and never looked back. Our children and our grandchildren were under his care. Besides being a great doctor he became good a friend. Not many people can say they looked forward to a visit to a doctor, but that was the case with Doctor Van. We followed him to the Pembina Cliniic when he moved. He could always explain health issues in a simplified manner. Along the way he always had a story or two which usually gave laugh or two as well. Going to the doctor will never b the same. We will miss you Dr.Van. The Gallaghers - Posted by: Bob and Marlene Gallagher and family (Clients) on: May 29, 2026

• So sorry for your loss - Posted by: Patricia (Patient) on: May 29, 2026

• We are deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Van's passing. He was truly the " Best" doctor you could ever ask for. Knowledgeable, caring, compassionate, thorough, and genuinely concerned about the welfare of his patients . We were blessed to have had him as our family doctor and a good friend. Sincere condolences to Lindi, Alexander, Anneke, Aden and Anina. You were the love of his life. A wonderful man gone to be with his Holy Father. Rest in peace, Dr Van. We will miss you. Mike & Marlene - Posted by: Mike & Marlene Horvath (Former patients and friend) on: May 29, 2026

• We met Dr. Van shortly after moving to Winnipeg in 2005 and felt a connection to him immediately not only because we were also from South Africa, but the fact that, no matter how busy he might be be, he always made us feel that we were his only patients. No one will be able to replace you in our lives Dr. Van. - Posted by: The Firer family (Patients) on: May 29, 2026

• The first time I met Dr Van I came to see him as a worried 29 year old who was confirming I was pregnant (unplanned). After having confirmed it and me hesitating about next steps, he looked at me sitting next to my spouse and shared “It took 7 years for my wife and I to conceive our first and 5 for the next, stop looking at this as a curse and see the blessing it is. You and your spouse appear to have something great here, embrace it.” I walked out of the office and looked at my partner saying, “I guess we are doing this!” Our son just turned 15 and he is the best decision I’ve said yes to! Over the years of him being my GP, he was always honest with me and I valued that so much! I felt I could confide anything to him and always trusted his opinion. I will miss him so much (as will my entire extended family as they all became his patients). Thank you for all you provided me with and of course pushing me outside my comfort zone when I was scared and unsure! You will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Xx - Posted by: Pam Williams (Patient) on: May 29, 2026

• Dr Van, thank you for over three decades of amazing care to my mom, dad, sister, wife and myself. You helped and cared for us all with compassion, respect and love over the years. My mom had numerous health problems and passed five years ago. Sandra loved her visits with you and the jokes you guys shared, she would tell me some of the stories after her appointments with you and we would have a good laugh. I know you two will be telling jokes together in heaven now. Thank you for all the good you put into this world, I will miss our talks, your analogies and life advice to which I still use and has made my life easier. You truly are a very special Dr and human being, may you rest in peace. To Dr Vans family we are all so very sorry for your loss, please accept our heartfelt condolences. - Posted by: Dwayne Kochie (Patient) on: May 29, 2026

• Lindi, Alexander, Anneke, Aden, and Anina The butterfly is a gentle reminder of life’s beautiful transitions. Just as the caterpillar undergoes a miraculous change, the butterfly represents a journey of peace and newfound freedom—a reminder that his spirit is merely soaring into what comes next. In many cultures, they are seen as symbols of the soul, a fluttering sign that his presence remains close whenever you need him. Most of all, they are a message of hope; as a healer who touched and saved so many lives—including my own—your Dad and Husband's impact and legacy will continue to spread far and wide, just like a butterfly traveling through a garden. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for sharing Dr. Van with us, his patients. MAY HIS MEMORY BE A BLESSING .. MY MOST HEARTFELT CONDOLENSES Dr. Bernadette Des Marais Mellon - Posted by: Dr. Bernadette Mellon (PATIENT) on: May 28, 2026

• Dr Van was a gentle, kind and caring doctor. Thank you Dr. Van for sharing your history with me. I already miss our hugs, some tears, and taking selfies. You had often mentioned your family with such love and devotion. To your family , blessings 🙏 continued health and happiness. Among the few prescriptions you recommended to me, the one I will always cherish is when you said to me " We are all the same " That simple enunciation had a profound , positive effect on my life. See you later my friend. - Posted by: Harold Sankar (Patient and friend.) on: May 28, 2026

• Please accept our deepest condolences. Dr Van was more than just our doctor; he listened and cared for us over the years. We’re so grateful to have had you as our doctor. You will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Dominga & Noel (Patient) on: May 28, 2026

• Our deepest condolences to Lindi and family. We are so sad to hear of the passing of our dear Dr. Van. Sharon first started seeing Dr. Van at the Lakewood Medical Centre as a walk-in patient. She was so impressed with his personable, caring and understanding nature as well as his ability to explain health issues in layman's terms that when she went to the Lakewood walk-in clinic she would request to see him. At the time, Sharon did not have a family doctor so when she was asked who her family doctor was, she said Dr. Van Jaarsveldt. The next time, she saw Dr. Van, she told him that she had "adopted" him as her family doctor. Soon, Dr. Van became Dan's and our son Tim's family doctor, as well. Our visits to see Dr. Van were always pleasant and he would listen to all our ailments attentively. Many times we would have a little chat and a few laughs. We could feel that Dr. Van really cared about his patients. We will miss Dr. Van very much and will always remember him in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Dr. Van. - Posted by: Dan & Sharon Hunt (Patients) on: May 28, 2026

• I first met Dr Van at Lakewood Medical Im guessing almost 20 years ago. I knew right then and there that I found the doctor that I can trust. He became our family doctor and treated us more than as his patients. He provided us with healthcare but he gave us more than just test results. He was always there to listen and provided advises that he makes you feel better before you even get treated. He was very honest with care. To the family and friends he left behind, my family sends our deep condolences. Rest in peace Dr Van, my whole family will miss you. - Posted by: Marieann Param (Patient) on: May 28, 2026

• He has been my family's personal doctor for about 20 years. He is truly an unique person who goes beyond the call of duty to just catch up, find out the latest about you, share stories and takes his time to educate you on your situation. He never rushes you out of his clinic. I hate when doctors just say "take this prescription" and never explain more. He takes his time, explain and does it in plain layman language. Every time I see him, I give him a hug and thank him for also being a great and dear friend. I last saw him for my annuals in November 2025 and asked how are you doing? He never complained but was always so positive and believed there was someone above bigger than all of us. At this appointment, he said I have bad news for your wife. She has to live with you for a long time as you are in fine health. To this, I replied "it's because I have the best doctor". When I left the clinic at this appointment, I gave him a big hug and said "all will be fine". This is a big loss. I found out today and couldn't stop crying. Rest in peace, my dear friend! - Posted by: Rudy Maharajh (Patient) on: May 28, 2026

• Liefste Lindi en familie ek is vreeslik jammer on te hoor van jou geliefde Desmond. Mag Jesus julle omvouwen in Sy liefde volle arms en dra deur hier die moeilike tyd. Al my liefde Corrie - Posted by: Corrie Blom (Friend) on: May 28, 2026

• Sad to hear of his passing. He was our doctor and friend for over 30 years. - Posted by: The Puhlmann Family (friends / Patients) on: May 27, 2026

• Sad to hear of his passing. He was our doctor and friend for over 30 years. - Posted by: The Puhlmann Family (friends / Patients) on: May 27, 2026

• I met Dr. Van when he was at Lakewood medical many years ago. When he left to open Pembina Medical Center I went with him. He was so special so unique. You could immediatly see how he cared for his patients and staff. I was honored to have him as my Doctor. Even as he worked through his cancer journey his appointments were supreme. He was truly amazing. The last time we met he gave me a hug. I will never forget that. My deepest condolences to the family and medical community. - Posted by: Edgar Emil Drews (Patient) on: May 27, 2026

• Dear Lindi and family, Please accept our deepest condolences. Dr. Van was truly one of a kind. He was my trusted doctor for 20 years, and he was always worth the wait. He looked after our entire family with so much dedication. He was absolutely amazing with my children, speaking to them in such a caring, fatherly way when they were small, and offering them wonderful advice as they grew into young adults. He was an incredibly warm, caring physician who always ended our visits with a big hug. We will miss him dearly, and our thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Carol Taylor (Patient) on: May 27, 2026

• Dr Van will be missed by so many. He was truly one of a kind. A wonderful Doctor who was kind, patient, and truly cared about you. He was also a true gentleman. He loved, and was so proud of his family and spoke so lovingly about them. I am so truly heartbroken to hear of his passing. My deepest condolences to the family….he will be missed - Posted by: Andrea (Patient) on: May 27, 2026

• Lidi, I have held you deep in my heart since I learned this sadness. Sending u all so much loving compassion. His love of Christ while Werner was here was so evident. I look forward to more visits In heaven one day. Thank u both for our time shared - Posted by: Carla Mackay (Friend) on: May 27, 2026

• We started seeing Dr. Van at Lakewood Medical over 32-36 years ago. He was very knowledgable, and shared not only medical information, but encouragement. After many years of Dr. Van being our doctor, in 2013 my husband was wanting to know about some question related to family history of cancer. After a lung CT, or MRI?, it was discovered that he had cancer in his lung. It was because Dr. Van was a very active advicate. When he contacted a Specialist to see my husband, his comment on to the other doctor was ... this is my friend. My husband was very touched by this as it was comforting to know that Dr. Van was showing his care, and compassion. Not only have we been his patients, but our son, daughter, my parents, and a number of friends over the years have also been his patients. He truly was a special, caring, very knowledgable, and compassionate doctor. He also would share what may be uncomfortable to learn, but did it in a way that was understandable. He not only cared about your reason for the appointment, but he also took the time to find out about how life was going. He truly was a gifted doctor. Thank you and a tribute to you Dr. Van for all the many years and time that you gave to us, our family, friends, and the many patients lives that you have been part of. You truly were a blessing to so many - Posted by: Calvin & Susan (patients) on: May 26, 2026

• I am so sad to hear of Dr. Van's passing. He had just started at Lakewood Medical and I was only 16 years old when he became my doctor. Dr Van was my doctor for 32 years. His faith in God always shone through his smile. He always found a way to make me laugh no matter how sick I was. Dr. Van was an inspiration to me throughout my life. Whener life was tough, I thought about Dr Van and what he would suggest. I will always remember you, Dr Van and be forever grateful for being blessed that you were my doctor. Heaven has gained an angel. My condolences to his family for this heartbreaking loss. - Posted by: Chantal Daly (Patient) on: May 25, 2026

• I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Dr Vans passing! He was my family doctor since Lakewood and since i was twelve. I am lucky to have known such a kindhearted person. He was always so jovial and spoke so vibrantly of his family. He went well above and beyond any time we’d pay him a visit, and i am thankful to have known him. He was always so kind and listened with intent. I was lucky to see him in March not knowing it would be the last time; and give him a hug. My deepest condolences to his wife and children. He will be sorely missed. Rest easy dr van 🕊️🕊️ - Posted by: Vas (Patient) on: May 25, 2026

• My mother and I are so deeply saddened by these news. We had the privilege to know this wonderful human being who was kind and always made you feel well with his upbeat attitude and welcoming demeanor. Dr. Van listened to your concerns and always had great advice to give you, and of course, you always came out of your appointment with a smile in your face. Waiting was never difficult especially when he had Mr. Bean to entertain you. When reality needed to be faced, he made sure you would face it but not be discouraged. After his accident and diagnosis, he never let us know how bad it was, but showed the same positivism and courage he wanted to instill in you as a patient. There is no one like him. What an exceptional Doctor and especially what a wonderful human being. He will be missed so much! We know his family will miss him tremendously, but we are sure he leaves a beautiful legacy in his children which hopefully will be of comfort to his wife. May all the beautiful memories carry you forward as Dr. Van certainly would like to see. Your father and husband will always be with you. Be well Dr. Van. Thank you for all you have done on this earth! - Posted by: Tania and Elba (Patients) on: May 25, 2026

• Dr Van was one of the best people in my opinion. He went out of his way to make me and my family healthy and he was more family then my doctor. I will always have a place for him in my heart. Ty so much Dr. Van. You were king of all doctors on earth. - Posted by: Adam Holmes (Patient) on: May 25, 2026

• I met Dr Van many years ago when he was practising at Lakewood, following him to Pembina, and was instantly charmed by his wit and demeanor. His humourous yet frank way of delivering a diagnosis or opinion was a breath of fresh air. The medical community and his family lost a great one. Rest easy, Dr Van. - Posted by: Chris Varga (Patient) on: May 24, 2026

• Dr. Van was truly an amazing human. He was our family doctor for many years and I can't express enough how blessed we were to have him as our doctor. He treated us like family. His caring nature, patience, understanding and guidance will never be forgotten. We will miss him greatly. Rest in Peace. - Posted by: Shauna N. (Patient) on: May 24, 2026

• We met you two in Flin Flon and Enjoyed friendship as well as patients - and Des was always there for us through the years with our medical needs. He was always so proud to give us updates on you Lindi and the children. Take care of each other. Betty and Glenn Smith -Flin Flon - Posted by: Glenn and Betty Smith (Friends and patients) on: May 24, 2026

• My deepest condolences to Lindi and family. He was a great man, and we loved him too. We really miss him and know he is with the Lord. - Posted by: Laurette Godard (Patient and friend) on: May 24, 2026

• A visit to your office was always more than business. Thank you for sharing life stories combined with humor. Thank you for your low key approach which got me to finally quit smoking. Rest in peace my friend. - Posted by: John Evan (Patient) on: May 24, 2026

• Dr.Van was the best doctor anyone could ask for. He always listened to everything you had to say and never rushed you out of his office. He was so caring and always had a joke to tell. He will be hard to replace and missed dearly. - Posted by: Jo-Anne Weselowski (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• To the best family doctor we ever had, thank you for your kindness, compassion, and dedication. You cared for not only our health, but also our hearts. Your comforting words, patience, and genuine concern touched so many lives. You will always be remembered with gratitude and respect. Thank you for the care, hope, and warmth you shared with every patient and family you met. Rest in peace, Doctor Van. Your legacy of love and service will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Pingul (Patient(s)) on: May 23, 2026

• Deepest condolences to Doctor ‘Van’s’ wife and children. 💒🌹🕯A searing loss from your lives.I had the good fortune of being referred to Dr.Van years ago. Such energy and always felt put at ease with his exuberance and warm personality.He will be deeply missed by many. Margo Lancaster - Posted by: Margo Lancaster (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• My heartfelt condolences to Dr. VanJaarsveldt's family and those who were fortunate to know him. I had the pleasure of being his patient for 23 years and he spoke proudly of Lindi and the children. He was the most compassionate, kind and knowledgeable physician I ever encountered. It is with great sadness that I say goodbye. May you RIP Dr. Van. - Posted by: Janet Carr (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• Dr. Van had been our Dr for over 25 years. We looked forward to our office visits with him. His humour and compassion were bar none. He always made you feel like family and you could talk to him about anything and always gave you his little antidote’s. His dedication to his patients was truly amazing, working through his cancer treatments always with a smile. You will be truly missed. Heaven has gained an angel. Our deepest condolences to his family. - Posted by: Janet & Bruce Purtill (Patients) on: May 23, 2026

• Dr.Van was the best! He was the smartest, kind and caring doctor I know. My husband and I will really miss him. My husband would never go to a doctor but he went to see Dr.Van. There truly was something special about this good doctor. We are at a loss for words to say how much he will be missed. We can honestly say we will never forget him. The care this man gave to us was above and beyond. Rest in peace Dr.Van! - Posted by: Sandra Dupuis (Patient and friend) on: May 23, 2026

• I really liked Werner, such a positive guy. I wish we had more time to become friends. He is missed. Condolences to Lindi and family Peter Schwartz - Posted by: Peter schwartz (Veterinarian) on: May 23, 2026

• Started as patient of his at Meadowood Clinic and then Pembina for 27 yrs. Our conversations were always very personal and how he compared your condition to other life examples, as he did with every patient. Just saw him in March. He will be missed by so many. My deepest condolences - Posted by: barry fitzsimmons (Friend) on: May 23, 2026

• Dr Van has been my doctor for many many years. And he was an awesome doctor who took the time to make sure he answered every concern you had. He will be truly missed! - Posted by: Crystal Hanley (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• If laughter is the best medicine... then Dr. Van was the best doctor. Always quick with a joke or a funny story... but equally patient with questions and always providing solid, intelligent answers. His story of how his cancer was discovered was incredible, his determination to beat it resolute, his dedication to his patients unwavering, his love for his family steadfast. His faith shone through in our discussions, he wanted to spend more time with his family, but accepted his life was in God's hands... enjoy your reward in heaven Dr. Van! - Posted by: Stan Wiebe (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• My heart goes out to the family. Thinking of the family during this time. Dr. Van was my doctor for many years. When I had a Dr. Appointment, he always spent some time .... just to talk like he was your friend and he was. He will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Engelina Ineke Cameron (Long time patient) on: May 23, 2026

• Doctor Van , was the most compassionate man I have ever known. Our whole family were patients of his, We started seeing Doctor Van when he started practicing at Lakewood and followed him to Pembina Clinic. I will always remember my last appointment with him ❤️ Doctor Van would always give me a hug when I left his office 🥲 .. After 30 years of seeing Doctor Van he became more of a friend than just my doctor. He will be missed by everyone in my family.. RIP Doctor Van. ❤️❤️❤️❤️ - Posted by: Denise (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• We were lucky enough to have Dr. Van as our Doctor for over 20 years. In addition to being a great Doctor, he was always kind, considerate, thorough and willing to answer any question you had without feeling rushed. We will miss his wonderful sense of humour and positive energy. Rest in Peace Dr. Van and here is one last hug.🫂 - Posted by: Sharon and John Ikonen (Patients) on: May 23, 2026

• It deeply saddened me to read of Dr Van's passing. I was a patient of his for well over 20 years and during that time we became friends. He was the kindest and most compassionate doctor anywhere, and he was always funny and upbeat even when he was sick. A trip to Dr Van's meant a long wait, but once you got to see him you knew it was worth the wait as he spent whatever time was needed to explain a diagnosis with you including using funny little drawings. The moment that meant the world to me is that when after learning of my cancer diagnosis he phoned me just to see how I was doing and to encourage me, this at a time when he too was dealing with a broken neck and also advanced cancer. Before ending the call we prayed together for each other. He was one of a kind and will truly be missed by his patients. My deepest condolences to Lindi, his children and to his devoted Ellen, staff and fellow doctors at the Pembina Medical Clinic. Rest well in Paradise dear Dr Van. - Posted by: HARRY TROCHE (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• Dr. Van was our family doctor and my GP for several years. He was caring and helpful and always willing to take whatever time was needed to help. It was very noticeable that his patients left feeling better after their visit with Dr. Van. He was more than a good doctor, he was a good person with such a positive attitude. The world could use more people like him. He will be missed. - Posted by: Bruce Mogg (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• My deepest sympathy go out to the family and staff of DR practice. What a incredible Dr, man, human and carrying for humanity. Dr Van was so caring for everyone he crossed paths with always had a story and just loved people. I’ve been with DR VAN for a very long time he will be dearly missed by all .Thank you Dr Van for being the kind of person you were. - Posted by: Rod (Patient) on: May 23, 2026

• Our family is so saddened to hear of Dr Van s passing. He cared for our family since he started his practice in Windsor Park so many years ago. Dr Van s kindness, great stories and excellent medical care will be greatly missed. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, whom he loved dearly. Lucille Daudet-Mitchell,Todd, Genevieve and Melissa Mitchell. - Posted by: Lucille Daudet-Mitchell (Patient) on: May 23, 2026