ERMEL, Alexander Kraft van Ermel

1933 – 2025

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our father, Alexander Pieter Arnold Kraft van Ermel, age 91, at Trinity Village Care Centre, Kitchener, Ontario.

In 1954, Lex came to Canada by boat from the Netherlands on an agricultural visa. He arrived alone at age 20, seeking to build a life “where the weather was better”.  After a brief stint in farming, he founded Kraft’s Landscaping in Belle River, Ontario, which became his life’s work and passion. Throughout his career, he was a longstanding member and former president of Landscape Ontario and the Lion’s Club.

Our dad grew up in occupied Holland during WWII. This shaped him in many ways; food shortages, the sound of soldiers’ boots on cobblestone roads, and the trauma of seeing good Jewish people being taken away. We were taught to stay current on world events and to never waste, especially food. He read a lot and was an expert in all things related to the Second World War.

Dad loved animals and nature. He was actively landscaping until last year; always outdoors, always puttering. In Kingsville their garden was a beautiful oasis of blossoms and bird visitors. At 90, Opa was still pruning trees and teaching those skills to his grandchildren.

Dad was old school. He had a strong work ethic and high standards. He was a MacGyver who created solutions out of whatever was on hand. He lived life on his own terms, was difficult and stubborn; but quirky and silly too. He taught us many things. He loved sweets, good food, a beer after work, travel and dancing. He had beautiful blue eyes that twinkled with mischief. We are convinced his active life kept him healthy and whole to a good old age. We will miss him very much.

Slaap lekker, Dad. xo

Lex is survived by his partner of 22 years, Helen Howell of Harrow. He leaves behind three loving daughters, Elise Kraft van Ermel (Moe Danis), Annette Kraft van Ermel, Noelle Hall (Ben), in Waterloo. And grandchildren, Aaron Hanek (Louisa), Claire Danis, Jacob Hall, Sadie Hall, Michael Danis, Leah Danis (Marcus); and great-grandchildren, Margaret and Roslyn. We have been fortunate to build bonds with our Dutch family across the ocean over many years. Uncle Lex will be missed by nephews, Eduard (Claudia), Rudolf (Sandra) and Paul (Lida) and their children, niece Tanja, in The Netherlands, and his cousin Marietta in Paris.

Thank you to the caregivers, nurses and staff at Trinity Village for the excellent care they provided. And to his cherished partner Helen, a very special thank you for her endless patience and devoted care of dad during his later years with the onset of dementia.

Respecting Dad’s wishes, cremation has already taken place. A private family celebration to follow. A tree will be planted at Lakeside Park in Kingsville, Ontario to recognize Lex’s legacy of beautiful gardens and his contribution to horticulture in Essex County over the past 50 years.

Dad truly belonged outside among the trees. Forests Canada plants hope. If you would like to make a donation in Lex’s memory to Forests Canada or the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, and for online condolences to the family, please visit www.erbgood.com or 519 745 8455 for details.