Peter John Van Dyk
Peter passed away peacefully at Southlake Health in Newmarket on August 1, 2025 at the age of 86 years. He was the devoted husband of his beloved wife, Anne Van Dyk (Kenny). He was a loving father, “Pops”, to Peter Jr. (Pamela), and Joseph (Maria).
He was a wonderful grandpa to Victoria (Joost Van Dorp), Rebecca (Christopher Joksas), and Samantha (Ian Censner). Unfortunately Peter did not have the opportunity to meet his first great grandchild, Timothy Peter Van Dorp, who was born in April of this year.
He will be sadly missed by his siblings, of which he was the eldest: the late John (Mary), the late Johanna (Marinus Van Bakel), Elizabeth (the late Reagh Mann), Maria (the late Dieter Wiedeman), Narda, Lena (Henry Sterling), Len (the late Dottye), and Annie (Andrew Magee). Fondly remembered by his brother-in-law Peter Kenny (Bev), and his sisters-in-law, Christena (the late Bill Jonkman), and Marie (the late Terry Charlton). He will be missed by his cat, Goldie, who he simply referred to as “The Cat!”
Peter will forever be in the hearts of his many relatives, especially throughout the Netherlands. He will be greatly missed by his many friends (The “Boys Breakfast Club” has lost a very committed member.)
Peter was born to Leonard and Maria (van de Gevel) in Zandoerle, the Netherlands, in 1939. The family then moved to the island of St. Eustatius in May of 1949. They arrived in Toronto, Canada, in July of 1952. Peter was very proud of his Dutch and Canadian heritage.
Peter and Anne settled in Schomberg where they raised their two sons. He had a fulfilling career in the sewer and water main sector. After their retirement, Peter and Anne enjoyed travelling. They were fortunate through the years to experience many wonderful places. Peter was always in favour of travelling within Canada and the Netherlands.
He was well known for his antique automobiles, his support of historical organizations, and local charities.
We would like to sincerely thank all of the staff, nurses, doctors, and PSW’s at Southlake Health in Newmarket. Thank you Father Eric Mah for the times you were there to bestow your blessings to Peter over these many weeks.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. James Church, Colgan, 2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline, on Thursday August 14, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place in St. James Cemetery, Colgan. Reception will follow in the Cliffside Hall at Rod Abrams Funeral Home, 1666 Tottenham Road in Tottenham. 905-936-3477. Please consider donations to Sick Kids or St. Vincent de Paul, in Peter’s memory.
Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
***** TO VIEW A RECORDING OF THE FUNERAL MASS, PLEASE CLICK HERE *****
Service
Mass of Christian Burial
St. James Church Colgan
2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline, Tottenham L0G1W0
Thursday August 14, 2025
11:00am
Brady Weening says
Dear Mrs Anne VanDyk I am sorry I didn’t hear /knew that your husband had passed earlier this summer I’m sorry to hear that , we do. It grieve as those without hope . I always appreciated when you both gave me Christmas cards and some cash as well it was not needed but appreciated and thoughtful . I’ll miss seeing him at foodland .
Jolanta & Pieter van Dijk says
Anne and the family, we are so sorry for your loss.
We will cherish the memories of our time together.
Rheal & Helene Larose says
Knew Peter and Ann through HASC..condolences to the family
Hank & Chris Heersink says
Our most sincere condolences to Anne & your family. We first met the two of them in early 2018 at Toby’s RV. We had just pulled in beside them and they were so wonderful to us fellow Canadians. They offered to drop us off to get groceries while they attended Mass in Arcadia and picked us back up going back. Hank, being fully Dutch himself and Peter immediately bonded as did Anne & myself. They helped each other out with fixing various things on our respective RV’s and we had many chuckles. We had some lunches through the years in Arcadia as well as meeting up once or twice a year to have lunch in Uxbridge. 2024 would be our last outing together. May all the special memories you have bring you all comfort today and going forward.
William E Payne Jr. says
Very sorry to hear the loss of Peter. He will be missed by all of the Toby’s family, beside his on family.
Joseph & Carol Lovrinic says
To Anne & Family,
We’re sorry about Peter passing away. Our prayers & sympathy are with you & family.
He was an interesting man. He had an excitng life. It was interesting to listen to his stories he experenced. We are in Toby’s RV park.
Mary Catherine & Mike says
Sending our sincerest condolences to Ann and all the family ❤️ Peter was a wonderful man who my parents (Bill & Frances Ronan) were very fond of !
You are in our thoughts & prayers
Helen Yielding says
Peter was a delightful person. He had a zest for life,, indeed,.
My condolences to Anne and their family.
Gina Micallef says
I have just learned of Mr Van Dyk passing and wanted to send my condolences to Ann and family. I have very fond memories of them growing up and had the privilege of Peter driving my bridal party from home to church. They were part of so many lives in Schomberg at school and church and in the community. He will be missed.
Giuseppe & Pierina Spalvieri and Family says
Sending our deepest condolences to each of you during this difficult time. As your next door neighbours, we will greatly miss the instant smiles, waves and chats with Peter in the yard, or walking down the driveway. Even Jake, the cat, loved spending most of his time visiting Peter and Anne, or wandering right into their home when he had the chance. Thinking about you all and sending our love.
Luisa Spalvieri says
I’m so sorry to hear about Peter we have been friends and neighbors for over 56 years. He will be deeply missed. Sending the family my deepest condolences .
Janet Ferlisi says
Dear Anne and Family,
I was deeply saddened by the news of your beloved Peter’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you, as you recover. Janet Ferlisi.
Norma Wilkinson says
Dear Anne and family. This community has lost a very loving and caring gentleman and will be greatly missed. May God grant you strength and guidance as you mourn the absence of a special person,
Marianna (Doyle) McGill says
My sincere condolences to Anne and family! Peter will certainly be missed out of the community! Thinking and praying for you all!
Randy Nickason says
Nancy and Randy and Muskoka Region are sadden to hear about the passing of our dear friend Peter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We will always remember the many times we camped side by side, at Normoska. From the early days when you had the Maxwell and we had our little Chrysler. You were both so kind to us and our kids. We will remember those times forever.
Nancy and Randy Nickason
rosalie obermeyer says
On behalf of our family we offer our sincere condolences to Peter’s family. We have been lucky to have known Peter and Anne for over 23 years. What a lovely and loving couple. always had a kind word for everyone along with a smile. May the angels guide Peter’s steps to Heaven.
with love and prayers, the Obermeyer family
Jan van Dijk says
Beste Anne en familie,
Gecondoleerd en heel veel sterkte met het overlijden van Peter.
We herinneren hem als een zeer enthousiaste fan van de Van Dijken familie!
Heel veel groeten,
Margreet en Jan van Dijk
(van tante Ciska en ome Jo)
Kathleen and Benny Medeiros says
Our deepest condolences on the loss of Peter. He will be greatly missed. While we did not know him long, we enjoyed our chats while we bonded over our classic cars. We have made a donation in his memory to Sick Kids Hospital. He is no longer with us, but he will always live on in our memories and hearts.
Fr.Paul T. Hancko says
Dear Ann and family
Please accept my sincere condolences. In prayers we thank the Lord for great gift of life and friendship of our dear Peter. May he rests in Peace. Lovingly with blessings. Fr. Paul T. Hancko
Henny van Dijk says
Dear Anne and family,
We were very sorry when we were informed by Lonnie van Dijk about Peter’s passing.
Our condolences to you Anne and to your family.
We remember Peter as a friendly and optimistic man during your vists to Holland when we sometimes have met each other. His enthousiastic talking about his cars we still remember.
May he rest in peace.
Henny and Joop Simmers van Dijk from Holland
(from Jo and Cisca Van Dijk)
Judy Paylor says
To Anne: so sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. Remembering the fun times we had with Chris Peter and you – normoska tours/cliffside functions/dinner parties at your home and so much more.
My sincere condolences and wish you strength in the days ahead. Judy
Cathy (Des Barres)and Ken Zweep says
My condolences to the the family, I would see both Peter and Ann in the pharmacy whenever they came in and talked about when she was my teacher at St. Patrick’s in schomberg. I will miss seeing them.
He will be missed
Faye Elmer says
Deepest sympathies to the family. May fond memories comfort your hearts.
Faye Elmer says
Deepest sympathies to the family. May find memories comfort your hearts.
cliff mcfarlane says
It’s with a lot of sadness to know Peter has passed.
When Peter was our fearless leader of HASC York Region is when I got to know Peter, and such a knowledgeable man of so much history when talking about old cars, and how HASC would benefit so many in the Hobby.
I lost touch with Peter after HASC, after I moved away from Tottenham but met Him at a Resort in Florida (Toby’s) years later.
He hadn’t changed and still had that friendly outgoing attitude that made “Peter” the Man He was.
Peter will surely by missed….
My Sincerest Condolences to all of Peter’s Family and Friends, but especially his wife Anne.
Cliff McFarlane
Herman Kootkar says
Dear Family,
Our cousin Piet has started his last trip on august 1. He really loved to travel and visited Holland verry often. He always came to Zandoerle, where his birth house is still standing, to light a candle in the little chapel.
We remember him as a friendly and sociable man with a broad interest, especially in our large family. But he was also well informed about the situation in our country.
For us a steady spot in Canada to enjoy his and Ann’s hospitality has vanished. We are grateful to have known him and wish all our relatives the best.
All your cousin’s family van der Velden,
Children of tante Anna en ome Jan.
Paul & Sue Gourlay (nee Berger) & Sebastian & Miriam Kramer (nee Berger) and families says
Dear Anne & family,
We are so deeply saddened by the news of Peter’s passing. He was a wonderful man and has touched so many with his gentle ways. His love and kindness will never be forgotten. He was a wonderful friend to our parents, the late Rudolf and Brigitte Berger, and visited them many times in Germany. We have nothing but fond memories of him, he was always so proud to show off his car collection to our dad.
It is always so hard to say goodbye to someone so loved. May you and your family find the strength through God’s love and our love to find peace and the ability to get through this tragic time.
Our most heartfelt condolences.
Mark & Amy Tomlinson says
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Our deepest condolences.
Mark, Amy
Nathan & Marley Tomlinson
Donna Reynolds says
Keith and I are so sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to all the family.
Paul&Mary Kavanagh says
Our prayers are with you. May Peter rest in peace.
Lynn Jackson says
Dear Anne, Peter, Joe and family, I was deeply saddened when I heard about the loss of your beloved Peter.
I have enjoyed your friendship for well over 50 years – Peter was a wonderful man, always so engaging, always a ready smile. So glad we were recently able to spend some time together at Jim’s retirement.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all xo
Lorie Sloan and family says
Mrs Van Dyk and family although a large amount of time has passed for us, since being neighbours from the 11th Conc. of King Township, Mr. Van Dyk’s kind ways will be forever remembered. Wishing everyone in the family our condolences during this time.
Bob Eagan says
Anne, Peter, Joseph and families,
So sorry for your loss. Peter was an exceptional man and a great friend
to my father Gerry for many years. When dad retired from the Credit Union
after 40+ years Peter picked my parents up in a 22 Maxwell and drove them
to St James for the celebration. Peter remarked that it was the only car he had
at that time that was older than Gerry!! Peter will be missed by all that knew
him over the years.
Bob and Julie Eagan
Tony and Fran Paret- Black says
Oh, Anne. Tony and I are so sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to all the family. God bless.
Yogi and Chuck Frost says
Dear Ann
So sorry to hear of Peter’s passing
I first met Peter when he was 18 in Woodbridge and I was
friends with his two sisters Elizabeth and Marie
We certainly have enjoyed many years of friendship, great parties, and trips with you and Peter Peter will be missed by many
Carroll and Mark Rees says
Mark and I are very saddened by the death of Peter. We had no idea he was so ill. We have very fond memories of Anne and Peter’s visits to our home, cottage and in Florida.
We send our most heartfelt condolences to Anne, Peter junior, Joey and the whole family. We are not available to travel to Toronto for Peter’s funeral but we will certainly be thinking of all of you on this sad day.
Ailene Mabee says
our sincere condolences to Anne and family on the passing of Peter. Keep all the great memories in your heart, We had many good times together playing cards .We will miss him. Ailene Mabee and Cyril Hamilton
Elaine Maynard-Lloyd says
My Deepest Sympathy and Condolences, Peter will be remembered by all who knew him. I have many memories of my old neighbour on Castlewood Avenue in Schomberg. Thinking of You All and especially Ann.
Judy Lipsett says
Our Condolences to Anne and her Family Peter was a wonderful man , cherish all your wonderful memories that you hold dear to your heart .Cal and Judy Lipsett and Family
Pasquale Tortorici says
So sad to hear of Peters passing, my condolences to his family and friends, may the Lord guide you through this difficult time.
piet van de gevel says
beste familie van dijk
We wensen jullie veel sterkte met het verlies van piet
wij kenden hem als een fijne en erg behulpzame man
we zullen ons contact uit canada missen
en ons adres waar we altijd welkom waren
namens tante tonnie van de gevel
en rina en piet van de gevel
Christopher, Charlene and Michael Keenan says
Dear Van Dyk family, May Mr. Van Dyk rest in peace.
Judith Burkitt says
Dear Anne amd family, so sorry to hear about Peter. Although we had lost touch, we always remembered our lovely neighbours and the fun card nights. Peter made our wedding so special with his classic cars and his generosity. Many happy memories.
Bill and Eilísh Boston says
Sending our sincere condolences on the passing of Peter. May he rest in Peace. Bill and Eilísh Boston
Mary Lou and Darryl Swanson says
Dear Anne and family,
Darryl and I were deeply saddened to hear of Peter’s passing. We have wonderful memories of our time spent with both of you – dinners, shows and many lively discussions on various topics! Our thoughts, prayers and sympathies are with you at this most difficult time.
Mary Lou and Darryl Swanson
Sandy & Dennis O'Hara & Family says
Ann & Family
Sorry to hear of Peters passing!! He will missed by many.
Our condolences
The O’Hara Family
marc ronan says
Peter and Ann will be missed in our community. Peter worked on our farm for my Dad when he was a teenager and was a family friend all of these years. My sincere condolences to the entire Van Dyke family from the Ronan’s
Charmaine Wall says
Dear Anne & children,
May God the Father walk with you in this difficult journey. The heartache felt by Peter’s passing is a testament to the love he had for his family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love, Charmaine Wall, Rachel & Andrew Ashby, and Matthew Wahl.
Ginny & Ivor Cathcart says
Dear Anne and family,
We are so very sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. We always enjoyed our time with both you and Peter. He will be fondly remembered in our hearts. Please accept our sincere condolences. Holding you in our prayers.
Michael Ronan says
Dearest Anne and family,
Please accept our deepest sympathies on the passing of Peter.
We have always known you both, but on a fairly casual basis at first until we acquired our first old car. This was the beginning of an association where Peter’s guidance was wonderful. Our connection became more cemented with our occasions in Florida where you took us on many dinners, places of interest and other adventures. From movie sets, to car tours, to theatre events, museums, and cathedrals,… Peter had his influence and shared his knowledge. Every so often there comes a connection that is special and wonderful. He was one of these.
Rest in peace Peter.
Mike & Cheryl
Bonnie O’Hara says
Dear Anne & family. I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Peter. He was so kind. Mike asked him to bring the car that he’s in the picture with to come & take me for a ride as an Anniversary surprise. He took me all through Schomberg. It was so fun. Keeping you in my thoughts & prayers.
Judy Lipsett says
Our deepest condolences to hear of Peter s passing, he was such a lovely man, may he RIP, cherish all those wonderful memories Ann Peter and Joey and your families, Love Cal and Judy and family
Clarence & Carol Boyd. says
Sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. Thinking of you & your family at this time.
Clarence & Carol Boyd.
Jacqueline (Conlan), Tony and Leighton Costanzo says
Dearest Anne and family,
Our deepest sympathies on the passing of Peter, a man of quiet strength and unwavering love for his family.
Although it has been years since we last spoke with Peter, we will always remember Peter’s calm and practical approach to living his best life, which was inspiring, and could teach the world a thing or two about being grateful and present in the moment.
Anne, in reflection we have many heartfelt memories attending live theatre productions, and dinner socials hosted by yourself and Peter at your home. On each occasion, Peter was always the relaxed and welcoming host, while you Anne, flitted about energetically being the most gregarious and gracious hostess. These were special times. You and Peter were a couple that left an imprint on everything you did, and a lasting impression on all who knew you both. Anne, for a couple that did everything together, we can’t imagine the depth of your loss at this time.
Please know Peter’s memory will be carried forward in the hearts and prayers of all those who knew and loved him, and he will be deeply missed by his neighbours, friends, and the Tottenham community whose lives he touched with generosity and sincerity.
We send blessings of healing as you, celebrate the memory of a genuinely loyal and charitable man, and a wonderfully compassionate human being. Just remember, Peter hasn’t gone far…He’s just gone ahead.
May fond memories comfort your hearts in the days ahead.
With love and blessings,
Tony, Jacqueline and Leighton
Grace Tomlinson says
To the Van Dyk Family
Please accept our sincere sympathies on the loss of Peter. He and Anne were our “across the road ” neighbours for 54 Years. It was always a pleasure to see Peter proudly drive one of his antique cars as he left the farm driveway .
Murray & Grace Tomlinson and Family
Elly Vermeulen van de Gevel says
Beste Anne en familie ,
Gecondoleerd met het verlies van Peter .
Heel veel sterkte en kracht voor de komende tijd
waarin jullie Peter gaan missen .
Elly en Johan Vermeulen van de Gevel.
Sandra McGuire says
Sending love & hugs to you Anne, Peter, Joey & their families. Will always remember Peter fondly as we grew up together attending Sacred Heart School in the 5th of King. He was always a true gentleman & will be missed by so many.
Hugs
Sandra McGuire.
Peter Vandyk says
Dearest Vandyk Family,
In the 40 years we have know Peter we were recepient to his many acts of generosity.
A finer man we have never met and truly a Great Canadian
Rest in Peace our special friend.
With deepest sympathy,
Gary and Hope Bimm
Joe/Mary Ellen Keenan says
Dear Anne, Peter and Pamela, Joe and Maria and family, we wish to extend our sincerest sympathy to you on the loss of a dear husband,father,grandfather and great grandfather.Peter was a wonderful man, always cheerful and welcoming to all. Mary Ellen and I will always cherish the many occasions we had to be together with Peter and Anne over many years.Please know that our thoughts and prayers are for Peter and you at this difficult time.May God forever hold Peter in the palm of His hand. Joe/Mary Ellen Keenan
Marlene & Trevor says
My condolences to you Anne and to your family on the passing of Peter.. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad , difficult time.
Marlene & Trevor and boys
Chris and Lisa McGuire says
Anne and family,
Please accept our deepest condolences, for Peter’s passing
Frank and Janet McKenna says
Dear Anne and Family We were so very saddened to hear of Peter’s passing. We always looked forward to seeing Peter and Anne over the last 30 years, at the many HASC events – especially Normoska. Peter and Anne were such a bright light to so many people. We will miss Peter and his vast knowledge of antique cars. We are grateful to Peter for including us and our Buick in two different movie shoots. One was in Hamilton. The day started early and I asked Peter when he thought we would be finished that day. He said, “Probably 2:00 but no later than 3:30.” But Peter failed to specify that he meant “am – not pm!” So it was a very long day but certainly an enjoyable one. You are all in our prayers. May your many memories comfort you in the days ahead.
Frank and Janet McKenna
Central HASC Members
Mary O'Neill says
Anne, I was very sorry to hear about Peter’s passing and do offer my condolences to you and your family. He was such a kind person and someone who certainly knew how to run his antique car business.
My heart is with you as you grieve Peter’s passing.
Deirdre Carson says
My condolences to you Anne and to your family on the passing of Peter.. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad , difficult time.
May Peter rest in peace.
Deirdre Carson and family
JOHN O'NEILL says
Anne
Very sorry to hear about Peter. I have known you and Peter for many years and always hoped that I would see you and Peter again. Peter helped me a lot when I started my business and I will never forget this. Hope that you are OK.
Steve Joksas says
Clara and I send our sincere condolences to your family for your loss.
Lonnie van Dijk says
Our deepest condolences to Anne and the family.
May Peter rest in peace. Our prayers and thoughts are with you in the hard times to come.
I will remember Peter as our oldest nephew of the Van Dijk family. I will remember the times Peter and Anne stayed by us during their visits in Holland. Our last memories to Peter was our vacation in Canada in 2018 where we stayed a couple of weeks in Ontario. Peter will be missed. Every 2-3 months Peter called me where we shared family talks. He was our link to Canadian family.
With sincerely greetings,
Lonnie (Leonardus) and Heleen van Dijk from Holland and all the nephews and nieces (children from Hein & Sien Van Dijk)
Maria Spalvieri says
Sending our deepest condolences to the Van Dyk family. We will remember him fondly. He chauffeured us on our wedding day , drove one of his beautiful antique cars and dressed the part with his suit and cap. He was always friendly and kind and would always stop to chat whenever we would meet. May he rest in eternal peace.
Domenic and Maria Spalvieri and family
Vic Doerr says
Anne so sorry about the passing of Peter. I enjoyed you and Peter at the masses at the Beeton Manor.
Sharen says
Anne so sorry to hear of Peter passing we know you will miss him, it was always a pleasure to have a chat when our paths crossed. Our Prayers are with you and your family
Sharen and Sam Keenan
Liliana and Vincenzo Alberico says
Our sincere condolences to to Anne. May Peter rest in peace.
Vince and Liliana Alberico
Theresa and Larry Keogh says
What a lovely couple — so involved in the community. Peter was a highlight in the Classic Car business and he had some beautiful exhibits. Anne, with her musical talent, is a great asset to the community. We offer our sincere thoughts and prayers to Peter’s family .