BUYS, John G. Buys

On the afternoon of Wednesday, May 20, 2026, after a morning visit with his wife Maria, John passed away peacefully into the welcome of his eternal Lord and Saviour.

Beloved husband of Maria Buys (nee Yzerman) for 58 years. Dear father of Adrian vanGils (Linda) of Kemble, Ontario; Nellie vanGils (David) of Barrie, Ontario; Elizabeth vanGils Kloet (Robert) of Hamilton, Ontario; Robert John Buys of Lakeshore, Ontario; and Tracey Werkema (David) of Blyth, Ontario. Cherished Opa of 14 and great-Opa of 21. John will be dearly missed by remaining family, numerous nieces, nephews, neighbours, friends and First Christian Reformed Church community members. Survived by his 4 remaining siblings Ann Heida of London, Ontario; Harry Buys of London, Ontario; Martha VanZyverden of Owen Sound, Ontario; and Mynie Haak of Owen Sound, Ontario; as well as his sister-in-law Nancy Buys of Chatsworth, Ontario.

Predeceased by his parents William and Guurtje Buys (nee Maarse) and 3 siblings: Carl Buys (2001), Jannie Buys (2012), and William Buys (2020).

John was born in Aalsmeer, the Netherlands on August 5, 1926. He immigrated to Canada with his father and 7 siblings in 1950, settling in the Owen Sound area. After 1950, he operated the family dairy farm on Grey Rd 3, RR #4 Tara, Ontario. At age 41, he married his lifetime love, Maria Yzerman (vanGils) in March of 1968.

We, his family, continue to give thanks for John’s unceasing positive nature. We give thanks for John’s Christ-centered stability and leadership to us throughout his life while he was our husband/father. His clarity of mind and ability to quietly minister to each one of us, as his final days here on earth approached, continue to be a blessing.

“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all shall be made alive.” I Corinthians 15:22

As an entire family, we give thanks for the excellent care our husband and father received while at Lee Manor retirement home. He realized this was the best place to live his final days and commented on this appreciation many times. To Dr. Fred Veenstra, your exemplary ‘Dutch-touch’ personal care was always welcomed, plus your numerous visits and telephone calls helped us know John was in good Doctor’s hands. To Pastor Sid Couperus and Pastor Harry Zantingh, we as a family were always made aware when the ‘Dominee’ had visited, and this spiritual care blessed John greatly.

Visitation will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church, 201 4th Ave. W., Owen Sound, on Friday, May 22, 2026 from 7-9 p.m. In keeping with Hebrews 10:25, we welcome all family, friends, and neighbours to join us in person at the church for a service to celebrate John’s life on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Sid Couperus officiating. Refreshments and fellowship will follow in the Fellowship Hall located in the church.

As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to Timothy Christian School Society (Owen Sound), are appreciated. Online condolences can be sent to John’s family by visiting his memorial at www.woodfuneralhome.ca.

Visitation
Friday, May 22, 2026
7:00PM – 9:00PM
First Christian Reformed Church
201 4th Avenue West
Owen Sound, ON N4K 4V1

Service
Saturday, May 23, 2026
11:00AM
First Christian Reformed Church
201 4th Avenue West
Owen Sound, ON N4K 4V1