Brouwer: Simon “Sam”,
It is with the heaviest of hearts that, after a lengthy battle with cancer, we inform you of the passing of our beloved Sam – Our rock, friend, mentor, partner and one-of-a-kind, larger than life human being. Peacefully in his sleep at home, surrounded by Patty, Alex, Emily, and Baby Brouwer, on Monday February 27, 2023. Sam is survived by his brothers John (Monika nee: Reinke), Gerry (Jane nee: Leyendekker), Eric (Nancy nee: Nyenhuis), and sister Sya (Albert Nyenhuis). He is predeceased by his father Arie, mother Jannigje (nee: Slob), and brother Bas (Edna nee: Nyenhuis). Dearly loved and appreciated by his nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, and his many, many friends.
A private Invitational Family Service will be held on Saturday March 4, 2023, with family visitation from 12pm until time of Service at 2pm in the chapel.
A public Celebration of Life Visitation will be held on Sunday March 5, 2023 from 12pm to 4pm at Rod Abrams Funeral Home, 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham 905-936-3477. Cremation will follow. For those who wish, donations in Sam’s memory to the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre at Southlake Newmarket, or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
Condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
“Pain free and at peace – Rest easy now, my love.”
Service
Private Invitational Family Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Rd. Tottenham Ontario, L0G1W0
Saturday March 4, 2023
12:00pm - 2:00pm
Private Invitational Family Funeral Service
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Rd. Tottenham Ontario, L0G1W0
Saturday March 4, 20232:00pm
Public Celebration of Life Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Rd. Tottenham Ontario, L0G1W0
Sunday March 5, 202312:00pm - 4:00pm
Bob and Lori Nosad says
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts at this difficult time.
Aunt Irene and Uncle Rick French says
Distance prevents our presence at this sad time. We extend our condolences to Pat , Alex, baby Brouwer, my dear sister, Norma and all Sam’s family and numerous friends. we know that there is a large hole in your lives. May all the love you see, hear and feel about you help to soften the edges.
Guy perreault says
Guy & Fran Perreault
We are honored to have been called your friends,you will be sorely mist
Sharon MacKenzie says
So sorry to hear of Sam’s passing. Condolences to the whole family.
Davindra Singh and Family says
Dear Patty, Alex, Emily, baby to be, and Jack, I feel extremely fortunate that Sam became such a big part of my life over the last short while. It feels like our friendship was much deeper and stronger than the one short year I knew him. We shared a lot … from fun farming experiences, TV shows, driveways, talks on trucks/toys and pretty much any other topic that came to mind. He was such a kind, caring, and honest man. He was so full of wisdom and life experiences. More importantly, he was so willing to share all of that with a person he only just met. People like that are so rare and it shows how much he trusted his heart and in his belief in the character of others. He will be sorely missed but his legacy will live on. We should all strive to be more like Sam. I sure will. Mom feels he won’t be gone long … watching over us soaring overhead as if he is in his plane and coming back to us in part through his grandchild. Sending you all the love in the world. Davindra Singh and family.
Joe Ronan says
I am deeply saddened upon hearing this, Sam was such a genuine chap ( a great neighbour and someone to yack away about so many interesting things) with a diverse knowledge of so many things which we shared mutually.
Thinking back on so many things, I got my pilots license on Sam’s plane for example…there is such a void in my heart and our mutual friends , connections that cannot be duplicated- ever.
I wish Patty , Alex and the family my heartfelt condolences in this time.
Roger Reynolds says
We were sorry to hear of Sam’s passing. He was a terrific person who was taken from this earth too soon. He will be missed.
Roger, Diane and Andrew Reynolds
Ray and Astrīda Kalnins says
Having moved to Beeton recently, we could never in a million years wished for a better neighbour. Sam introduced himself to us while we were walking around our new property, dreaming about where and how we were going to build our new home. We instantly liked Sam and thought this place is going to be great.
As we started building Sam was an invaluable source of knowledge. He was able to put us in touch with so many people that worked on our home that held the highest standard , and pride in the work they did. We enjoyed the times around the campfire, having a cold beer, and sharing some laughs after a hard day’s work.
We hold Sam in our hearts with the greatest admiration, and respect.
To Patty, Alex and family go our deepest sympathy.
Ray and Astrīda Kalnins
Bob and Margaret Milligan says
Dear Patty, Alex and Family
We are so sorry for your loss. Sam will be missed by all of this community. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Carolyn Koski says
I had the privilege of living next to Sam, Patty, Alex, and Richard for 8 years. I couldn’t have asked for better neighbours, it was truly a blessing to live next to them. Such kind and generous people.
I am so saddened to hear of Sam’s passing. It is difficult to accept that such a hardworking, strong, and resilient person could be so quickly taken. He has left a big hole within our communities but has set a great example for us to follow. A remarkable person, with a big heart. He will very much be missed by us all.
Patty, Alex, Emily, BBrouwer, and Richard….I’m so sorry for your loss. My heartfelt sympathies to you all. Remembering you in prayer during this very difficult time. Please reach out if there is anything at all you need. ❤️
Carolyn Koski
Paul Wardlaw says
Patty Alex and family
Sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed my visits with Sam over the years at the farm or in the community. He will be dearly missed.
Cindi & Tony Dormer says
We are sorry to hear of Sam’s passing and offer you our prayers that he is now at peace. Our deepest sympathy to you on this great loss.
Tony & Cindi Dormer
Wayne and Betty Sutherland says
To Patty, Alex, Emily and all of the Brouwer family, we send our sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Sam. He was a dear friend and neighbour who will be missed.
We will be watching for you soaring over the farm Sam.
Mike Thorne & Joan Heath says
Dear Alex, Emily, Patty and Brouwer family,
Our deepest condolences to you all. The world has lost an amazing human being. May your loving memories give you comfort for the coming days ahead. It was our good fortune to have known Sam, experience his warm genuine friendship and enjoy his beautiful smile every time we met. He was a wonderful mentor, teacher, and friend to our grandchildren Jake & Hayden. He will be so sadly missed and always remembered. Rest in Peace Sam.
Brenda Park says
My condolences to Patty and Alex and family. I have great memories of my banking relationship with Sam, one of my cherished customers. Rest in peace.
Karin Chant says
This is heartbreaking. I wish I could be there with everyone. I’m so sorry for this loss. Sending all my love.
Eldon and Linda Abernethy says
Patty, Alex, Emily, Baby Brouwer & the entire Brouwer family,
Sam will be truly missed by everyone who knew him. When we moved to Essa, John & Sam flew over our new farm. Soon after, Sam presented us us with an aerial photo of our farm. We treasure that photo to this day. Sam always had a smile and a nice thing to say. Treasure your memories.
Deepest condolences,
Eldon, Linda and family
Amber N. says
John, Monika, & Sarah,
I am heartbroken for your loss. While I didn’t know Sam personally, I knew him through the stories and memories you’ve shared with me through the years and I know how loved he was by you all. Sending love and hugs to you.
Bert Suyker says
To the Brouwer Family, our deepest condolence to all of you.from:Gijs and Corrie Suyker.
Pete and Cathy Robson says
Patty and Alex, family and friends:
Our hearts go out to all of you, at this time and our thoughts of Sam will always be there with us in our hearts.
He was a great and successful individual in everything that he touched in life and if we should accomplish what he did in his short life, we would all be very fortunate.
Our prayers go out to you!
Sincerely.
Pete and Cathy Robson
Grant Leon and family says
The Leon Family
deepest sympathy to Patty Alex and loved ones. Never met a finer man , who’s handshake was his contract . Truly an incredible man.
Darlene Rupke says
Our family enjoyed getting to know Sam over the many years he farmed the fields on the 8th line. Sam’s visits to Grandma Jean were a favourite and Dad enjoyed many a good chat with Sam. He was a friend to all and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Please accept our deepest condolences, you are all in our thoughts and prayers
The Service Family
Brian Adams & Pat Skelly says
Patti, Alex & Family,
So very sad news.
Sam was indeed a hardworking man and we often wondered with his commitment to farming and family how he found the time to gladly help and provide assistance to so many people. It was a pleasure to have known Sam and we will miss our lighthearted conversations and laughter we had for decades that took place over the fence.
Sad Neighbours
Brian Adams & Pat Skelly
John & Cristina Hambly says
Our deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss.
Jeff Wirz and Deanna Marchione says
Patty, Alex, Emily and Baby B. Jeff and I are so sad to hear of Sam’s passing. He was truly one-of-a-kind. Always came with to visit with a great big smile.
Our lives were enriched having known him. He will truly be missed.
Rob and Barb Kowalski says
Such an amazing person who was always there for what ever you needed. We have lots of fond memories that will never be forgotten. Our condolences to the entire Brouwer family.
PETER COATES says
Condolences to the family.
The Dorsey Family says
We send our condolences to Sam’s family. He will be missed in the community. There is no doubt Sam is still soaring high in the clouds.
Peter & Joanne Dugan & Family says
We are so sorry to hear about Sam’s passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Shannon McCrackin (Blakely) says
Patty, Alex, Emily and Baby Brouwer,
Thinking of you all. We are so grateful for the time Sam and Dad got to spend together last summer. Wishing you peace and strength. ❤️
John & Margo Cooney says
Sam was a great personal friend, farmer and friend to all who met him. His smile exuded his warmth and happy nature. He will be greatly missed.
Our heartfelt sympathies to Patty and Alex. We can’t imagine your feelings of loss and profound sorrow. We just can’t believe he won’t be counting the days to sowing season.
May you find your special place in heaven, Sam.
Earl and Kaylia Stewart says
Patty, Alex, Emily and baby Brouwer
Our thoughts are with you all. Sam will be missed dearly, may your memories provide you comfort.
Janice Sheehan says
Our Condolences to the Brouwer family. Sam was a kind sweet and helpful gentleman. We were blessed to have known him. Janice, Chris and Chelsea Sheehan
John and Darlene Cooper (Copeland) says
Our condolences to the whole family on the passing of Sam – what an amazing man – he lived life to the fullness with his head, heart, and values. John and I will always be grateful for Sam’s influence and friendship to my young brother, Richard – he was so much more than an employer. Gone but never forgotten.
Tod and Donna McGoey says
Sam was a friend to anyone that had the honour to know him.
He had the gift to brighten one’s day with that infectious smile and caring nature.
He will be greatly missed.
Hugs from,
Tod and Donna McGoey and Family
Nancy Horsburgh ( Bailey ) says
Condolences to the Brouwer family from the family that welcomed them to our farm …The Baileys…Nancy, Dan and Rick.
Randy and Donna Horan says
Patty, Alex, Emily, Baby Brouwer and Extended Family
You are all in our thoughts and prayers! We met Sam in High School many years ago and remained good friends. Randy enjoyed working along with Sam on the farm and he has some great memories. The World has lost an incredible person and Heaven has gained an angel. Knowing Sam he will be watching over his family and friends.
Rest in Peace Sam
Randy and Donna Horan
Lorne and Elsie Newton says
Our condolence to patty and all the family.
Rest in peace Sam.
Lorne and Elsie
Ronda Williams says
Patty & Alex,
We are sorry and sad to hear of Sam’s passing. He will be missed in a myriad of ways by many. Our farming community had lost another good Farmer and Friend.
Garry & Ronda Williams
Kevin & Trudy Ronan says
Our condolences to the Brouwer family. Certainly you will feel the loss, but so will a community. Sam was always willing to offer advice when asked, and seemed to have time for everyone. A great community citizen. One of the good guys.
Sue says
So sorry to hear this news, my condolences to you Alex and your family..
Sue Brinen
Micone Family says
Brouwer Family
What a huge loss for all who knew Sam. He will be greatly missed by anyone who ever crossed paths with him. It was an honour just to know him. Thinking of you all.
Angelo and Michelle Micone
Ed Koski says
Dear Alex, Emily and Patty,
Our deepest sympathies to you all. May your loving memories give you comfort for the days ahead. It was our good fortune to have known Sam and experienced his friendship.
Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Ed & Gina Koski and family
Mike & Cheryl Ronan says
To Patty, Alex and family.
This is a great loss. With his strength and conviction, and wide knowledge, Sam always seemed incredibly wise for a man of his age. We had a shared enthusiasm for many things from aviation, antiques, and old cars to new techniques. We relied on him for advice which was always willingly shared. He was a gentleman, and he was a very gentle man. We will miss Sam. Our deepest sympathies. Mike & Cheryl
Cathy Evans/Hughes says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Sam was such a wonderful friend. He helped me out so much with so many different situations I have come across since Brian’s passing. He will be missed but the memories never go away. Take care of each other.
Jørgen & Ans Sondergaard says
Dear Patti
My wife and I had such a good time visiting you and Sam last Friday the day before his Birthday, enjoying the company of your friends, your delicious snacks and the wonderful pictures Sam showed us of your property up north.
It was with shock and great sadness we learned from John & Monika
that Sam had passed away.
Please accept our sincere condolences.
Jørgen & Ans Sondergaard
Karen Miller nee Welch says
Dear Patti, Alex and family, Saddened to hear about Sam. The pain is now gone. He will be remembered especially when you see the twinkle of Sam’s eyes in his grandson. God bless,
(Heather Mcquarries sister)
Janny and Rien Vandervlist says
So sorry for your loss, he was such a great guy. Please accept our sincerest condolences.
Mary and Dan Garbutt says
Dearest Patty, Alex, and Family. We send our love and heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your wonderful Sam.
Sincerely Uncle Dan, Mary and Family.
Karl and Jeanette Stewart says
Our deepest condolence to Patty Alex Emily and baby Brouwer Sam was an advid farmer and also ready to lend a helping hand .He will be missed by many people . He has left many wonderful memories for his family that will be cherished for ever.God Bless, and Rest in peace.
Susie Robson (Henderson) says
My condolences to the family. Sam was a wonderful man
Jacqueline Dryfhout says
Our condolences to the family with the loss of Sam. You will be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Ray and Jacqueline Dryfhout (vanderVlist
John and Carole Nadon says
To Patti, Alex and family our deepest condolences on your loss. Sam was a wonderful person, we enjoyed the short visit as he would stop by and say hello. Carole and John from Noelville
Doug Walmsley says
My condolences to his family and to all who were befriended by him We have lost a sincere, caring and wise friend.
I only had the privilege of his being his friend for 3 years. It didn’t take long though, to realize he was a unique, warm person with incredible knowledge, terrific memory and a true understanding of what was important in life.
I am a better person
Thanks Sam Rest in Peace
Larry and Carol-Lynne Smilsky says
May his flight to Heaven be a safe one. Sincere condolences from the Larry Smilsky family-
Ernie and Daina Wienecke says
We are sincerely sorry to hear of Sam‘s passing, our condolences to the family!
Truly was a great man!
Nancy and Jim Kidd says
Our condolences to the family.
Doug Gallaugher & Marybeth says
Sorry for your loss Patty , Alex and family thinking of you in this difficult time.
John Barrett says
Rest in peace my friend. You will be missed.
Brian Snell says
To Patty, Alex, Emily, and Baby Brouwer. We were very saddened to hear that Sam had passed. We send our condolences to you and all extended family at this difficult time of loss and grief. We have known Sam for 21 years, since we acquired our farm, and he welcomed us as a new neighbour at the time, and over the years has been a good friend and a terrific neighbour who was always there if help was needed and always eager to offer his advice and opinion on many things if asked. Sam carried a vast knowledge and experience with many things and was always willing to share that in many conversations that we had. Sam will be missed. Our community is at a loss with his passing. Sam, rest in peace.
Sincerely, Brian and Patti Snell and family.
Sandy & Dennis O'Hara says
The Brouwer Family
So sorry to hear about Sam!! He touched so many with his kind and generous ways!! Our Condolences to all of you.
Take Care
Dennis, Sandy, Devin, & Ashley O’Hara
Lloyd Lamothe says
To the family
Our deepest condolences from Lloyd and Paulette
Sam started as a client and turned into a great special friend
Barbara says
Our sincere sympathies to the Brouwer family. Barbara MacKenzie- Wynia
Joseph Szolopiak says
Sam was a massive role model for my son. He taught him how to run a combine at around age 10 and has been teaching Jake about farming with Alex for a years now. He was a true leader, mentor and a man of wisdom and knowledge. What a beautiful human. In the short time I got to know Sam I’ll cherish the conversation and wisdom he had to offer and the ability to always smile. His positivity was contagious.
“The man who has the most toys at the end wins” Sam won!
Condolences to the entire family.
Lucy Coates-Goorts says
So sorry to hear of your loss. My brother’s spoke of Sam often.
William Koski says
To Alex, Patty and family.
We send our deepest sympathies and condolences to you all. Sam was a wonderful person, quick to smile and always made time to visit, He will be greatly missed by all,
RIP buddy
Will, Trisha Koski and Family
Kevin and Kim Dermott says
Our most sincere condolences. Sam was an amazing hardworking sincere man. We had so much fun in our younger days.
Jim Alexiou says
Rest in peace Sam. May God bless you.
Brian and Karen Westlake says
To the Brouwer family
Our deepest condolences on your loss, he will be missed by many and remembered by all as one of the good ones taken much too soon may his strength and memories comfort you in the days ahead.
Holding you in our thoughts and prayers
Brian and Karen Westlake
and family
Roo Hall says
To the Brouwer family,
It’s with the heaviest of hearts that I take in the sad lest news of Sam’s passing. Whilst I lived in Canada Sam took me under his wing and made me feel home in a completely new continent. He always made time for me and had about him what we call in NZ a huge amount of Mānā (spirit and influence).
On my next return to Canada, my plan was to make a coffee with Sam a priority stop. Talk about farming, flying, hunting and fast machines. Will miss you dearly Sam.
Thoughts are with your family.
marc ronan says
Sam Brouwer a good guy all around….memories from his Z28 days in high school to his expertise in farming. business and a respected community leader. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. I looked up to you and will miss your leadership. Rest in peace my friend…you did well in your short time here. Deepest sympathy to Patty .Alex, Emily and Baby Brouwer from Marc Ronan and our entire family.
Ken and Kim Griffin says
Sam will be missed by so many. He was a kind, down to earth, one of a kind man. Anyone that met him instantly took a liking to him, how could you not? He enjoyed good conversations, loved showing you photos on his phone and just really enjoyed life. We will miss you very much, Sam. Xoxo
Patti and Alex – we send our love and deepest condolences to you both.
Love Ken, Kim, Ben, Katie and Danny.
Kevin Thompson says
My condolences to Sam’s family. He was a wonderful person . He will be missed in the community. RIP Sam .
George Palmieri says
It’s with sadness to hear of Sam’s Passing . One of of the first solid guys I met 45 years ago when we bought our Colgan farm. We shared some good times back then . He will be welcomed in heaven with his big heart and all his acts of kindness .
God bless you Sam rest in peace .
The Palmieri Family Colgan
Ken and Kim Griffin says
Sam will be missed by so many. He was a kind, down to earth, one of a kind man. Anyone that met him instantly took a liking to him, how could you not? He enjoyed good conversations, loved showing you photos and just really enjoyed life. We will miss you very much, Sam. Xoxo.
Patti and Alex – we send our love and deepest condolences to you both.
Love Ken, Kim, Katie and Ben Griffin
Jamie says
Our condolences to the family
Jamie and Lori Barrett
Owen Croft and Alison Hodge says
I am so honoured to have called Sam my friend and was so fortunate to have been able to share so many hours of flight time with him. I will never forget how his face lit up when we flew his new Sportstar from Edenvale to Brouwer Field. The foto Alex posted speaks a thousand words. All our love to Patty, Alex and the family.
Mary Doldersum says
Dear Patty and Alex and Family.
Ralph and I are so, so sorry to hear about Sam.
We have so many memories of you all.
Sending our love.
Ralph, Mary and Family
Heather n Kim McQuarrie says
Patty n Alex there are not enough words to describe what a great friend Sam was to us! We are still in shock! Gone way too soon! We will miss him dearly! Hang onto all the memories. Big hugs to u all
Hugh Ronan says
Hugh Ronan says Sam was a fantastic Farmer and all around great human being. Will miss his contagious smile. Condolences to his family
Barb Kalbfleisch says
To the Brouwer family,
We send our deepest sympathies to you all.Sam was definitely a one of a kind always had a smile on his face.May all your memories hold comfort.
Barb and Steve
From The crazy cow in St Charles
Shauna Henry says
John and I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to get to know Sam in the past year or so. Our hearts now turn to Patty, Alex & Emily as we help them to navigate the weeks and months ahead. Our deepest condolences. Rest easy, Sam. We’ve all got this for you now.
John & Shauna Henry
Jeff says
Sam was one hell of a friend, farmer, and father. Patty and Alex, we’re so sorry to hear the news. May his spirit and smile live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Great picture xo
Take care of yourselves,
Jeff & Danielle McQuarrie
Judy Lipsett says
Patty Alex Emily and Baby Brouwer, our deepest sympathy to you all, Sam was a wonderful man , gone way too soon cherish all your memories Cal and Judy Lipsett and Family