SAMPLONIUS, Gerald Samplonius

Gerald (Gerardus) Samplonius was born on October 3, 1930, and on November 30, 2025, at the age of 95, went to be with his Heavenly Father. Gerald was born to Willem and Tetje Samplonius in Wykel, Friesland, Holland, in a blended family of two brothers and four sisters.

He was the devoted husband of Wilma Samplonius (Vellenga) for 68 years; loving Heit (father) to Brenda (Dave) Kumagai, Patricia (Eric) Croeze, Evelyn Samplonius, William (Lena) Samplonius, Christine Clement, Josephine (Marvin) Kroesbergen, and Andy (Sheilaugh) Samplonius; and proud Pake (grandfather) to 22 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Gerald was predeceased by his parents, Willem and Tetje Samplonius, and his cherished grandson, Benjamin Samplonius. He is survived by two of his sisters.

After immigrating to Canada on June 2, 1949, at the age of 18, Gerald worked on farms and at the Westinghouse factory. Later, with his wife and family by his side, he progressed to dairy farming in Lucan, Ontario, and then hog farming in Strathroy-Caradoc, Ontario. In retirement, Gerald loved fishing with his buddies and volunteering in his church and community.

Gerald will be remembered by many for his long storytelling, wise conversations, and countless visits with his church community, friends, neighbours, and family. His love for history books was his passion. He delighted in cutting out jokes and articles from newspapers and magazines and slipping them into your hand with intention.

Early in life, as a new believer in Christ, Gerald’s faith grew as he served as an elder in his church for many years—visiting the elderly and sick, singing in the choir, and participating in mission trips, even in his later years.

Family and friends will be received for visitation at Dennings Funeral Homes, 32 Metcalfe St W, Strathroy, on Thursday, December 4th, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

A Celebration of Life will take place at East Christian Reformed Church, 476 Metcalfe St E, Strathroy, on Friday, December 5th, at 10:30 a.m, followed by an interment at Strathroy Cemetery. A luncheon will follow back at the church.

Online condolences may be left at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com