Obituary of Cornelis Albertus Herweyer

HERWEYER, Cornelis “Cor”- Peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on May 25, in his 91st year. Survived by sisters Nel Herweijer and Henny (and Gijs) de Groot in the Netherlands.  Forever remembered by daughter Deborah Lynn Cheeseman (Gordon), grandchildren Christopher (Mary), Michael (Stephanie) and Julia (Adrien) and great-grandchildren Charlotte, Jack and Laura.  Also deeply missed by devoted partner Anne Fisher and daughter Carol Harris (Greg) and their children Patrick and Emma. Born in The Netherlands in 1928, Cor’s wartime experience as a young man did nothing to diminish his good nature and faith in others.  Arriving in Canada in 1952, he started work in the tobacco fields at Port Bruce, followed by experience at a dairy.  This led to the failed experiment to make butter at home in a washing machine (otherwise he was incredibly handy).  His varied career path (Field Hand, Firestone, Real Estate, Pier One Fish and Chips, Sales for Van Communications) was paralleled by a constant commitment to serving his community through volunteer work.  He was recognized by Sertoma International, the Sarnia Hospital (Bluewater Health), Christmas Miracle, Habitat for Humanity and others with a series of awards, including volunteer of the year by Sarnia’s mayor.  His natural inclination to assist people was also well recognized by his friends and neighbours. Cor’s first car in Canada was a “PECO”.  This remained a mystery model for some time until he explained that he and his friend Pete Van der Weiden (also his immigrant sponsor) paid $25 for a used vehicle with no windows or doors.  They named this beauty after themselves (Pete/Cor). Cor was usually humming a tune or whistling while working on a project and was naturally inclined musically.  He played guitar and sang locally for many years at parties, benefits and concerts. Cor’s emphatic wish to die at home was helped by his perpetual good nature but would not have been possible without the constant care provided by Anne.  Profound thanks as well to Dr. Kolano and the Sarnia Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) for assisting with this. Cor was a proud Dutchman, a gardener, handyman, singer, fisherman and “a real sweetheart”, but most importantly a wonderful dad, partner, opa and overgrootvader.  He leaves decades of memories, love and laughter and is missed. Cremation has taken place.  Following Cor’s direction, no service will be held. Arrangements entrusted to McKENZIE & BLUNDY FUNERAL HOME (519) 344-3131. As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish may send memorial donations to the Sarnia Strangway Centre, 260 East St. N., Sarnia, N7T 6X7, where Cor spent over 20 years as an active member.  Messages of condolence & memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com.