Vereecke: Marino
September 6, 1957- June 12, 2025
Suddenly and unexpectedly in Tottenham, Ontario, Marino went to be with his Lord and Saviour on June 12, 2025. He was 67 years old.
Cherished husband of Deborah (née Teller), Marino was a devoted family man who loved the Lord Jesus. He was a source of strength and kindness to all who knew him. Loving father of Sarah (Grant) Boyer, Rachel (Justin) Vlietstra, Michaela (Devin) Straatsma, and Joshua Vereecke (Jason Tavares). Proud and much-loved Papa to Rylie, Chelsie, Charlie, Bobby, Mckenna, Oscar and Peyton. Adored son of Georgette Vereecke and the late Andre Vereecke. He will be lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law Claudia Teller (Gary McQuillan). He leaves behind nieces and nephews, dear friends and extended family members in Belgium.
Professionally, Marino served with integrity as a Chartered Accountant for over 40 years, but his passion was to serve the Lord as Pastor of Churchill Baptist Church, in Palgrave, for over 33 years. He was known for his compassion, humility, unwavering faith and dedication in service.
Although the family mourns, we take great comfort in knowing that by faith, he lives, and we will one day see him again. We thank our God for Marino’s example of a godly life lived well.
The family will receive friends at Rod Abrams Funeral Home, 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham (905-936-3477), on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A second visitation will take place on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., immediately followed by a funeral service in the Chapel at 11:00 a.m.
A reception will follow in the funeral home’s Cliffside Hall. Interment will take place afterward at Morningside Cemetery, 32 Pine Ave., Palgrave, Ontario. Donations in Marino’s memory may be made to Alliston Community Christian School or to Matthews House Hospice. Online condolences or memories may be shared with the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home Ltd.
1666 Tottenham Rd. Tottenham Ontario, L0G1W0
Monday June 16, 2025
4:00 pm - 7:00pm
Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home Ltd.
1666 Tottenham Rd. Tottenham Ontario, L0G1W0
Tuesday June 17, 202510:00am - 11:00am
Funeral Service
Rod Abrams Funeral Home Ltd.
1666 Tottenham Rd. Tottenham Ontario, L0G1W0
Tuesday June 17, 202511:00am
Tom Ingoldsby says
Dear Deborah;
I’m sure you couldn’t possibly remember me, but I was at your wedding reception all those years ago, part of a small group of hockey players and very old friends of Marino, who were there to witness all the happiness and joy of that day.
We met all the way back in Grade 7 and although we didn’t get a chance to meet up too often after high school (I spent most of my adult years in England) when we did, it was like no time had passed at all. We were defence partners playing hockey at a time when it meant the world to us and I particularly remember his Dad dropping him over to my house once so we could walk to the public outdoor rink at dawn and play/practice for hours before anyone else was there.
In fact, it was this period of our lives that brought us together again last year, as it was the 50th anniversary of the team we played on, and like I mentioned above, it was like no time had passed at all. We sat beside each other and talked and laughed like we were 16 y.o., again, and it was marvellous. I was only able to attend because we had just moved back to Canada and I can’t tell you how grateful I feel to have been able to be there.
Through the years Marino and I spent many an hour discussing spiritual matters, and it didn’t surprise me in the least when I learned that he found his calling in your church. He was always searching for answers because he was willing to ask the big questions and perhaps the greatest consolation in his passing is that I know now he’s found his answers.
My deepest condolences to you and your family, of whom he spoke of with such love and devotion. As time passes, when I think of Marino, it’ll always make me smile and laugh – and I can’t think of a better legacy than that. God bless.
Pam Harrison (Murphy) says
Very saddened to hear of Marino’s sudden passing. We are former residents of Tottenham (Wolfe Ave.) and Marino did our taxes for many years. We exchanged emails every tax season and updated each other on what was happening with our families. He was such a good and kind person and will be missed.
Chris Sturgess says
My condolences. I always enjoyed my annual chats with Marino.
Patrice Gaston says
Marino was a great man, very calm and soft spoken, and a true man of god.
He was mine and my children’s accountant for many years. My daughter said to me today, said the last message he sent her, after completing his taxes was “see you next year”.
My condolences to you and your family,
Patrice Gaston (Hickey)
Shannon Oletic
Patrick Oletic
Elizabeth N Young says
Dear Josh and Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad, someone who was clearly so loved and loved so many. Please know I’m thinking of you, and may you all find peace in where he is and the memories of him you share.
Glen McKenzie says
Deborah
Through a strange circumstance, I came across news of Marino’s passing. I certainly remember the three or four times you guys had an end-of-school-year BBQ at your home. Sorry to read he had passed. Blessings to you and your family at this time.
Glen
Deborah says
Thank you.
Joanne and Randy Stevens says
Deborah and family, Randy and I wish to express our sincere condolences. Marino was a man of incredible faith and compassion for others! It was a privilege to serve with him on the board at Alliston Community Christian School. Our children have fond memories of VBS at Churchill. May you find comfort in recalling the happy memories and the knowledge that we don’t mourn as others, as we have a hope in Christ!
Deborah says
Thank you.
James Graham Newlands says
To Marino veerekes family, I send my condolences, sorry nobody told me, Marino passed away, until today Harry called me, my name is James Graham Newlands . Marino helped me when I was homeless, and his church and Harry. Marino used to call me a lot, and make sure I was ok in a truck driver.
My heart ❤️ is broken and I’m in tears I hve lost a friend. Marino bought me clothes and helped me get my life together, and Thnks to Harry.
Please send my condolences, to his family, in this difficult time. Sorry for your loss I miss Marino too. He is in a better place in heaven, some day we will all meet Marino again.
He loved bike rides, he would call me and tell me he went riding even in the winter. I tried calling and texing him but he never replied, it’s not like him to not call. I wish I could have been at funeral. Marino always cares about me took me to church.
Godbless Marino. He was a very caring special nice man. And father and husband to his nice family.
I’m going to miss Marino, I cried when Harry called me it’s hard to believe, he’s gone.
My heart ❤️ is broken and pray his family is ok.
I love you Marino, this is your trucker friend, your with the lord. Rest in peace, I will see you one day and your nice family will too.
You hve no more pain, and your watching from heaven.
Godbless you Marino, Thnks for letting me be your friend.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Ian and Jackie Logan says
Just heard of Mariano’s passing! We are very sorry to hear of this and thinking of his family. We met Merino many years ago at the Community Alpha course held at Hillside church in Tottenham, attended by many of varying denominations. He so impressed us with his humility and loving character. His heart was truly in the right place. Blessings on his family and church family who will certainly miss him.
Jackie and Ian Logan
Deborah says
Thank you.
Elizabeth N Young says
Dear Josh and Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad, someone who was clearly so loved and loved so many. Please know I’m thinking about you, and may you all find peace in where he is and the memories of him you share.
William Oosterman says
Over 20 years ago Marino stood with us in our time of trouble at Westboro in aOttawa. Most other SGF pastors turned their backs. Not Marino. It wasn’t just our mutual Dutch heritage. He was a genuine caring brother, true friend…you will always be remembered and that memory a blessing. Am living in the Dominican or I would have been there to honor CHRIST IN HIM.
Deborah says
Thank you.
John and Wendy Burston says
My husband and I were shocked to hear of the sudden passing of Marino. He was such a blessing in our lives when our boys were younger. They enjoyed playing soccer at the school and making spice racks at VBS. We are truly sorry for this terrible loss to Deborah, his children and grandchildren. May the Lord strengthen and comfort you. John and Wendy Burston.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Teresa & Dan Steenhoek says
We are so very sad to hear of Marino’s passing. He was a genuinely good man – warm, generous and always thinking of others. We have great memories of Marino at soccer, at work and in the community. Deborah, please know that we are holding you and your family in our hearts.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Michelle ANGOVE says
I’m thinking of you today. A day of sadness and celebration, a day of remembering, a day of laughter and a day of tears.
It comforts me to know you have a strong family that will be there for you, a tight knit group of friends, coworkers, members of the congregation and the Lord, our God holding you gently as you navigate this new journey.
Marino will be with you always in your heart and when you sing songs of praise he will be there with God, smiling and cherishing your love for both…
Michelle
Deborah says
Thank you.
Connie & Rocky Mezzone says
Condolences to the family, friends and church members from the Mezzone family (church neighbours)
Deborah says
Thank you.
Glenn and Sonja Tomlinson says
Dear Deborah and family:
Words cannot convey our shock and sorrow at the news of Mariano’s sudden passing. We rejoice that he is now with the Lord he loved and served so faithfully. We grieve with you in your loss.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Melissa Redman says
It was a shock to learn of Marino’s sudden passing. He was such a big part of our neighborhood always talking to somebody, working in his shop or riding his bike. Marino was the strength my husband and I needed when we lost our son. He was a wonderful man and he will be missed dearly. My thoughts and prayers to Deborah and the family. Another good one gone way to soon. May he rest in peace.
Melissa Redman
Deborah says
Thank you.
Linda Brauner says
Our condolences with the unexpected passing of your father. May our heavenly Father give you His comfort and peace. Love in Christ
Linda and Eric Brauner
Steve & Sharon Marsh says
Our condolences to Deborah and family. So great to know he now lives in the presence of the Lord. We remember fondly, many Carey Conferences where we enjoyed Marino’s ministry and friendship. Sharon & I will keep
you all in our prayers.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Kate D'Angelo says
Sarah and Grant and Family
Our family is so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. His faith was unreasonable..Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Rest peaceful in Paradise
marc cormier says
He will be missed by all,he was such a nice and helpful person,our deepest condolences to the family
Marc & Sharon
Cormier
Tammy Higdon says
Deborah, Sarah, Rachel, Michaela, Joshua and families;
I am so very sorry for your loss.
We were all so shocked and saddened on hearing the news.
Marino was the epitome of what a husband and father should be and it was easy to see that he loved you all so very much.
If more men had the same sense of family that he did, the world would be a much better place.
Our community will mourn his loss.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Phil Apperly says
We were saddened to hear of his passing. He was a man who lived what he believed.-Phil & Pauline Apperly
Deborah says
Thank you.
Hallyburton says
Dear Deborah and family, Praying for you all. Such sad news, thankfully we know he is with the Lord he loved so much.
Ann Hallyburton
Deborah says
Thank you.
Conrad vlietstra says
Dear Deborah and family
We are so sorry to hear of the sudden loss of your dear husband and father. May the Lord comfort and give you strength in the days and years ahead. Sending our heartfelt condolences,
Conrad and Teresa Vlietstra
Deborah says
Thank you.
Val Routledge says
We want to share our heartfelt condolences with your entire family during this time of great sorrow. Shane and I first met Marino about 15 years ago at our local BNI group, just as we were starting our business. From that day on, he became not just our trusted accountant but a good friend—always generous with his time and his knowledge.
Marino guided us through every challenge and was a steady source of support and encouragement. We feel very grateful for all the moments we shared with him.
Whenever I stopped by to talk business, he always took time to ask about life and family. His pride in all of you was always so clear—he loved sharing stories and photos of the grandkids, talking about family trips with Deborah, and sharing plans for future adventures. His eyes truly sparkled when he spoke of you.
We hope you find comfort in knowing how deeply Marino cared for you and how fondly he spoke of his family. He made a lasting difference in our lives, and we are holding you all in our thoughts.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Dale & Cindy Nevelizer says
Dear Deborah & Family,
Words cannot begin to express our sorrow and sympathy with you at this time. Marino was truly a blessing to us and will be dearly missed.
Our comfort at this time is found in the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our troubles. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
Love in Christ,
Dale & Cindy Nevelizer
Deborah says
Thank you.
Janice Van Eck says
Deborah and family, Thinking of you all as you grieve the sudden death of Marino. May you know God’s deep comfort at this time.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Todd Parsons says
May I offer my sincere condolences at this very sad time, Marino has left a lasting impression on everyone and everything he’s done. He will be missed. I have been privileged to call him my friend. He was a great man and will be missed.
Todd Parsons
Deborah says
Thank you.
roxanne shank says
It has been a great honour to know Marino personally and professionally, for about 20 years. Marino had great professionalism coupled with deep compassion and kindness. He never judged- he always helped. His Ministry infused everything he did. I always left a conversation with him, a better person. God Bless you Marino, you are missed. In respect and kindness, Roxanne Shank
Deborah says
Thank you.
Heidi says
Dear Deborah, Georgette, Sarah, Rachel, Michaela, and Joshua,
May God comfort all of you in your sudden loss of Marino, he touched so many lives for the Lord, and has gone to his reward. He is greatly missed by so many of us.
Craig, Heidi, and Elisabeth Jordan
Deborah says
Thank you.
Allen Hustler says
I am deeply saddened to learn of Marino’s passing. I’ve known Marino for 43 years. He’s been at times my co-worker, my employee, and my accountant, but always my friend. His advice and friendship have been invaluable.
My deepest sympathy goes to Deborah and the family.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Robert McFadden says
Condolences to Family and Friends.
He Will Be Missed. May His Journey Be Grand. RIP Marino.
Deborah Vereecke says
Thank you.
David Zub says
I was saddened and sorry to hear of Marino’s untimely death. He was a trusted colleague and sorely missed after I left the area in 2012. My heartfelt condolences goes out to his family, even knowing he is with the Lord whom he loved so well.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Mills Family says
I am deeply sorry to hear of the passing of Marino. My first memory of Marino was at a TBS team visit to Churchill. Marino warmly invited us to preach in his pulpit, and after, let us get a glimpse of his theological library. He always gave a student a book!
We will be praying for you all in this difficult time.
“Blessed are those who dwell in your house,
ever singing your praise! ” — Psalm 84:4
Deborah says
Thank you.
Benno Kurvits says
So sorry to hear this sad news. I always appreciated Marino’s candidness and sense of humor. Sorry, Deborah and family, for your loss.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Terry Hickingbottom says
Deborah and family; We are are saddened to hear of Marino’s sudden passing and send our deepest condolences.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Patsy Greer says
Truly a wonderful and loved pastor at Churchill for years.
Reunited in heaven. The Rowell Family
Deborah says
Thank you for your kind words.
Peter & Melanie Ryttersgaard says
Dear Deborah and family,
Travelling in Alaska we were heartbroken to read of Marino’s sudden passing. Words fail us in conveying our heartfelt sympathy to you all in this time of loss. While heaven is our ultimate goal, it seems never to come at “the right time” for those left behind. Marino was a wonderful man and a faithful pastor.
Our flight home is not until the 18th so sadly we will miss the memorial service. Please be assured of our love and prayers as you go through this difficult time.
With Christian love,
Peter & Melanie
Deborah says
Thank you.
Ginny Cathcart says
I was very saddened to hear this news. please know that I am holding the entire Vereecke family in my heart and in my prayers.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Deb Tiede (Weeda) says
Vereecke Family
I extend my deepest condolences and love to you during this sudden and difficult time. Marino will be greatly missed. He has been such an encouragement to us over the years.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Tony and Vida Costa says
Deepest condolences from our family to yours. We very much enjoyed the time we ministered and fellowshipped with Marino and his congregation. Absent from the body, present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8). May the God of all comfort be with you in the days ahead.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Paul and Belinda Burston says
We send our heartfelt condolences to the Vereecke family at this time of sudden loss. May you feel the care and prayer that surround you, now, and as you grieve your wonderful father and grandfather in the days ahead. With love,
Deborah says
Thank you.
Kaitlyn, Chris, and Henry says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Uncle Marino was a great man and will be deeply missed. May you find comfort in your memories of him.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Rhonda Hughes says
Deborah, Sarah, Rachel , Michaela, Josh and family We are so saddened to hear of Marino’s passing. We share so many fond memories of him . We are thinking of you and sending our thoughts and prayers to all .
Mark & Rhonda Hughes , and family
Deborah says
Thank you.
Lestie Brent Downey says
Yes saddened to learn of the sudden death of Marino, blessed and comforted to know that he is at home with his Lord and Saviour. My prayers will be for you his family as you adjust to his earthly absence.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Maha & Mike Ghiz says
We just came across the sad news of the unexpected passing of pastor Marino! The first images that comes to mind is brother Marino’s vibrant character, warm presence and hearty laughter! We fondly remember Marino, Debrah and their children’s kind & generous hospitality, during our church visitations! Marino’s dedication to the Lord’s service was exemplary!
Deborah says
Thank you.
Clyde Doucette says
Marino and i have exchanged many points of views over the 20 plus years that i have served him as his MECHANIC, Nothing bad to say about this man, never pushed religion on me at anytime but always offered a kind word or offered his “lord” to me. He always gave me recommendations and praised my professionalism. I will certainly miss this man and his wisdom and outlook on different things. My sincere condolence to the whole family.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Karen and Brian Westlake and family says
Our deepest condolences on your loss, we first met Marino at the soccer field when the girls played together and then when we were looking for a new accountant. He was always professional and provided excellent service with a warm and compassionate touch. He will be missed by all in your family and the community sending you our love and prayers
Deborah says
Thank you.
Terry and Marlene Roberts says
So sorry to hear this sad news we send our love and hugs to your family at this time. Marino was an amazing man and pastor, and we were so blessed that he was able to marry us.
Terry & Marlene
Deborah says
Thank you.
Katrien Ver Eecke says
Our sincere condolences.
Our thoughts are with you Deborah, wishing you and your loved ones all strength during this difficult time. Many greetings and a big hug for all of you.
Katrien Ver Eecke and familie fom Begium.
Always welcome ❤️
Deborah says
Thank you.
Russ & Suzie Hiebert says
Praying for you all at this difficult time. Marino was a dear and faithful friend to me. We often spoke of heaven now he is with Christ which is far better.
May the Lord comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead. “When you pass through the waters I will be with you” Isa 43:2
Deborah says
Thank you.
David and Liz Dash says
Such a sad loss for you Deborah, Sarah, Rachel, Michaela, Joshua and Georgette! Marino has been so impactful in many lives and will be sorely missed. May your grief be in part salved by the many fond memories you have of Marino and by the hope you have in the grace of God, so that you do not sorrow as others who have no hope.
May you be be immersed in the peace of God.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Sandra Trainor says
Deborah and family, we are so very sorry to hear of Marino’s passing. Please know you are in our thoughts and our deepestcondolences. From your Sault Ste Marie friends, Sandra and Greg.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Norcross Family says
We were so sad to hear this news. Our deepest condolences The Norcross Family
James Gunn says
Dear Vereecke Family,
My prayers are with you and Marino. I pray that you see signs of both Marino’s and our Creator’s love for you all in each day.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Deborah says
Thank you.
Peter and Marlene Vlietstra says
Deborah and family, we send our heartfelt condolences.
Psalm 23:4: Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.❤️
Deborah says
Thank you.