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ANDREW GERARDUS VAN NIEKERK (DREW)
Born: Feb 22, 1966
Date of Passing: Feb 10, 2020
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ANDREW GERARDUS VAN NIEKERK
Drew was born February 22, 1966, in Winnipeg, Manitoba and was predeceased by his mother Ida (Robitaille) and father Gerry Van Niekerk. He is survived by Gidgi Van Niekerk, sister Kim (Rich Poitras), sister Renee (Sean O'Connell), niece Katie and nephews, Steven, Jesse, Zak and Colin, aunts, uncles and many cousins. Drew also leaves behind his mother and father-in-law Shirley and John Humble, brother-in-law David (Liza Kemkaran), niece Shae, and nephew Caden.
Drew graduated from the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Manitoba in 1988 and went on to receive his Doctorate from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon in 1992. That summer he moved to Calgary to join his fiancée, Susan, who was completing her Masters at the University of Calgary. He later went on to become a Partner with Associated Veterinary Clinics, practicing out of the Calgary North Veterinary Hospital. Drew started as an Emergency Veterinarian, later pursuing his interest in diagnostic medicine through ultrasound and endoscopy work. He was the veterinarian who would get on the floor with your dog or cat in the exam room if it meant making your pet feel more comfortable. Drew was a mentor to many and loved to teach. He sat on the Board of Directors of the Calgary Humane Society for 22 years and helped to make our community a better place for our pets.
Drew and Sue were married for 26 years, adopting many pets, enjoyed camping, travelling and kayaking on the West Coast. They purchased property on Gabriola Island and built a home on the Island to share with family and friends.
Drew had an intense love of soccer and played competitively as a goalkeeper for Gino's Drillers during his time in Calgary. He also loved softball, playing in a beer league prior to coaching Finn in baseball. His love of hockey and teaching showed up on the rink coaching Finn from Timbits through to Midget with the McKnight Hockey Association.
Drew fought cancer head on with incredible strength and courage. His loss is unimaginable. Special thanks to Dr. Marc Webster and Dr. Desiree Hao of the Tom Baker Cancer Centre and Dr. Alison Murray of the Palliative Care Unit of the Foothills Hospital, along with many memorable nursing and administrative personnel.
A "Rendez-vous for Drew" will be held at the Skyline Room, top floor of 1918 Kensington Road NW, Calgary, on Saturday, March 7. Doors will open at 2:00 p.m. with a formal celebration at 3:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Drew's name to the Calgary Humane Society or to the Canadian Cancer Society.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 22, 2020
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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He was my veterinarian for many years. Yes he sat on the floor with my golden retrievers. They could not resist his charm. They went to him because they felt safe with him in a place that was scary to them. He was so proud of his wife and son. I miss him. - Posted by: Lorna Sexsmith (Vet) on: Nov 04, 2024
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My parents met Drew’s parents through the Knights of Columbus in Transcona. I recall spending many fun Grey Cup parties at his home and later going to school with Drew in high school. My husband Brad Ross played soccer and hockey with Drew and we always commented what a great and kind person he was. We are so sad for your loss and our deepest sympathy to all the family. - Posted by: Kathy Ross (Skowron) (Family friend) on: Mar 01, 2020
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I was deeply saddened to hear of Drew's passing. I went to school with him in John Gunn and TCI in Transcona and I also played on his soccer team. He was always friendly and kind to other students. He always had a smile on his face. I had heard he had become a vet and was very proud of him. I express my deepest sympathy to his family. May the memories you shared with Drew help you through this difficult time. Lisa Rand - Posted by: Lisa Rand (friend) on: Feb 24, 2020
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Saddend to hear of this. Glad Drew did something great with his life. Was always a nice good guy. Condolences to his family and friends. RIP Drew - Posted by: Paul sciberras (Hi school freind) on: Feb 22, 2020
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So very very sorry Kim Richard and Family for your loss Thinking of you at this sad time - Posted by: Shirley Lazaruk (Neighbour) on: Feb 22, 2020
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So sorry to hear the passing of Drew. We were friends back in junior high school at John W Gunn in Transcona. We played soccer and hockey together and had numerous sleep overs. I moved from Winnipeg in 1981 and we kind of lost touch after that. I would like to express my condolences to Drew’s family and numerous friends. We lost a good person. Take care. Trent Morrison - Posted by: Trent Morrison (Old friend) on: Feb 22, 2020
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Sincerely saddened to hear of Drew's passing. As a student, Drew was respectful of his peers no matter who they happened to be. Drew was very conscientious towards all his endeavours whether academic or athletic. He was a true gentleman as a young adult; and from what I had heard communicating with people who continued contact with Drew, that quality never left him. My sincerest condolences goes out to his family and loved ones. In thought and prayer Frankie De Marchi - Posted by: Frankie De Marchi (Teacher..john w gunn) on: Feb 22, 2020
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I am so saddened to hear of the loss of this lovely man. Drew worked for me when he was going to University in Winnipeg. I was a new employer and had recently started my business. Drew as a young man worked diligently, supportively and always was kind , had a good sense of humour, and a fierce love of animals. I send my deepest condolences to his family and I know he will be missed terribly. Sincerely, Colleen O'Morrow - Posted by: Colleen O'Morrow (Friend/Employer) on: Feb 22, 2020