Michael Theodorus VandeGraft
26-Sep-1927 - 24-Dec-2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Theodorus VandeGraft, who left us on December 24, 2024, at the age of 97, in Oshawa, Ontario. Michael was born in Beek en Donk, Holland, on September 26, 1927, one of six children to Adrianus and Johanna.
Michael's early life was marked by hard work and dedication. He attended school until 1940, and at just 14 years old, he began working in the steel mill to help support his family. In 1947, Michael proudly joined the military, serving until 1950 in Indonesia.
In 1954, Michael married Catharina Vandenberg, the love of his life. They immigrated to Canada in 1957, with their 18-month-old son, Eddie. Michael and Catharina were married for an incredible 63 years. Michael worked as an insurance salesman before securing a position at General Motors. After 29 years of dedicated service, he retired from General Motors in 1986.
Michael loved soccer as a child, and as an adult, he enjoyed cheering on his favorite teams, the Toronto Blue Jays and Maple Leafs. Michael and Catharina spent 28 summers at their trailer in Campbellford, Ontario, where Michael enjoyed fishing, playing lawn darts, and creating meaningful friendships with the many people they met over the years. Michael and Catharina also made many trips back to Holland, to visit and celebrate special occasions with friends and family.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Catharina, and their son, Eddie. Michael is remembered with love by his daughter-in-law, Cheryl, his granddaughter, Kristy (Tyler), his grandson, Derek (Jessica), and his great-grandchildren, Eddie, Henry, Jack, and Chloe. He will also be missed by the close friends they made in Canada, as well as his nieces and nephews in Holland. A special thank you to Chris and Antoinetta Vorstenbosch and the Daniels family for their years of support.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and nurses of Extendicare Oshawa, particularly the Unit 2 nurses and staff, for their kindness, compassion, and care during Michael’s stay.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your favorite charity or to The Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Funeral Details:
Funeral Service:
McEachnie Funeral Home Chapel
Event Times: 4-Jan-2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Interment:
Pine Ridge Memorial Gardens
Event Times: 4-Jan-2025 12:15 PM - 12:45 PM
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at McEachnie Funeral Home.
