Van Iersel, Peter – of Trail passed away on July 28, 2014 in Trail. Peter was born on January 20, 1933 in s’Hertogenbosh, Holland.
A man who lived a full life passed away peacefully, with dignity in the arms of his beloved wife Ines. He was a father, husband, brother, friend and co-worker: and he was important to many people during his lifetime. He will be greatly missed both here in Canada and in Holland. He was an intelligent, cultured man who enjoyed literature, classical music, jazz, fine wine, good beer, healthy food, political discussions and philosophical conversation. He was quietly considerate of others: a loyal friend and he always lent a helping hand to those in need. Throughout his lifetime he remained active in soccer, skiing, hiking, camping and canoeing. He was active in his community and supported the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Seniors, was Treasurer for The United Steelworkers Organization of Retirees – Chapter 12, and an active member of the Tuesday Morning “Old Geezer’s Club” where all the problems of the world were reviewed and solved.
He was born in Holland and his childhood involved surviving the hardships of WWII. As a young man his spirit of adventure took him to Australia for several years and many other places. Then he emigrated to Canada. For years he was employed as a highly skilled Design Draftsman at Cominco/Teck.
On the slopes of Red Mountain he met his beautiful wife Ines and fell in love with her Italian passion and fire. She became his devoted, loyal life companion and they enjoyed 14 years of marriage. Ines loved and supported him to his end.
Peter was predeceased by his mother Catharina Pagie, his father Antonius Van Iersel, and his brother Leo Van Iersel. He is survived by his wife Ines Van Iersel, his sons Philip and Eric (Janet) Van Iersel, two grandchildren Henry and George. Ines’s children Stefania (Mike, Chantal and Danielle) Ottosen, Archie (Michele and Isla Vingo, his three siblings Steen (Harrie) Van den Broek, Toos Van Iersel Lodewijks, Ton Van Iersel, several nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held on August 9, 2014 at 11:00 am at the Fruitvale Memorial Hall. Everyone is invited to attend and share memories of Peter. Al Grywacheski of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements.
As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Peter’s name to the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital Health Foundation (Renal Unit) at 1200 Hospital Bench Road, Trail, BC, V1R 4M1 or online at www.kbrhhealthfoundation.ca
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s online register at www.myalternatives.ca.