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Leanne Van Dommelen

March 23, 2014

VAN DOMMELEN, Leanne (Vannatter) – Peacefully after a 2 ½ year courageous battle with cancer on Sunday, March 23, 2014 at Victoria Hospital, Leanne Van Dommelen of London at the age of 35.  Beloved wife of Matthew Van Dommelen.  Loving mother of Kurtis, Owen and Emerson.  Cherished daughter of Judi and Doug Graystone and Bradley Vannatter.  Best friend and sister of Janine Vannatter; sister of Cameron Vannatter.  Loving daughter-in-law of John and Cathie Van Dommelen; sister-in-law of Sara and Beth (Neil) Van Dommelen. Dear granddaughter of Irene and Walter Nudyk.  Visitation will be held on Thursday from 2:00 – 4:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. (with prayers at 7:00 p.m.) at the WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, where the funeral service will be conducted on Friday, March 28th, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Leanne are asked to consider the St. Joseph’s Breast Care Clinic. 

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Knowing Leanne through public school and high school and being able to re-connect through facebook, I can say I am truly blessed to have known such a brave inspirational beautiful woman. My heart goes out to Leanne's family, thinking of you all.

~ Jessica Keats

Our condolences, she always had a friendly smile and was truly a loving and caring person. May your memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead.

~ Drew and Shelley Pelc

I went to South with Leanne and while we weren't friends, I had a few classes with her. I specifically remember the day that she told our dance class that she was expecting her first child. She told us how happy she was and how it would all be ok. I remember thinking how brave she was and when we reconnected through Facebook a few years ago, I could see that particular quality had grown with her through the years. We exchanged a few private messages through Facebook and she would always remind me, every October 9th, that we shared the same wedding anniversary. To Leanne's husband, her children, family and friends, I am so sorry for your loss. Words can't take away your pain but I hope your memories and her well documented loved for you all will comfort you in the days ahead. Rest peacefully, Leanne.

~ Alexis Fowler (Mossip)

With heavy hearts on earth, heaven has gained a beautiful soul. Our thoughts are with all Carol Anne and Tony

~ Carol Anne and Tony Hirst

So sorry ot hear of the passing of Leanne, our deepest sympathy extended to her family at this time of rebeavement. Don and Jean VanNatter295

~ Donald VanNatter

No one who knew Leanne will ever forget her. My deepest condolences to Matt and their children, Doug and Judi, Brad, Janine, and the Vannatter and VanDommelen families. I hope that the love, memories, and sentiments shared here will help to make the difficult times ahead seem just a little easier. Take comfort in the fact that her life and her journey helped others in many ways, both big and small.

~ Tess de Haan

We were very sad to learn of Leanne's tragic passing. Our fond memories of Leanne and her sister Janine date back to when they were very young - 1982 - when we were close friends with Judi and Doug. To both the Van Dommelen and Graystone families, please accept our most sincere condolences.

~ Frank and Lois Granger

Matt, we never met Leanne but felt a connection to her, you and your family through our friendship with your Mom and Dad. I always marveled at Leanne's courage to be so forthright and 'out there' in her fight against this cancer. She dealt with her circumstances with dignity and grace and we are all the better for her tremendous strength. You are blessed and embraced with the love and support of many...God Bless...

~ Mike and Sue Tremblay

I am a fellow cancer survivor, and we had some friends in common through the Relay for Life. Our deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Boyd & Denise Dunleavey

~ Boyd Dunleavey

All of my Love to Leanne's family! From public school to high school, Leanne was a good friend to all with a great smile, an affectionate laugh and a capacity to care for others! Peace.

~ Matt Hill

Doug, Judi & Leanne's family: I was sorry to read the news of Leanne's passing. As a customer at Tack Feeds, I have followed her fight and hoped against the odds for a happier outcome. Doug spoke glowingly of her & her family and while I didn't know Leanne personally, I certainly admire her strength & courage as she faced her cancer battle. My thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. Hold your memories of her close and know she is at peace.

~ Marnie Sly

Judi, Doug, Janine and the Van Dommelin family. We are so saddened to read about Leanne. She was a special little girl that grew into a very special beautiful young woman. Our thoughts are with you.

~ Joyce and Pat Lawler

Matt, I'm am deeply saddened to hear about this loss to you, your children and all those in life that Leanne has touched. You and your family are in my deepest thoughts right now and in the coming weeks.

~ Gerry Egan

Matt, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. My thoughts are with you.

~ Barbara Duggan

Our deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of Matt and Leanne. May her beautiful smile and kind soul comfort you in the days ahead. Hold on to her memories and know that she is resting in peace. Nigel, Laura and family.

~ Nigel and Laura Mandigo

Judi and Doug , please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your dear daughter Leanne. You and your family must have some wonderful memories . May those memories, family and friends help you through this sad time . Sincerely Gabi & Jim

~ Jim and Gabriele Burnard

I am so sad to hear of Leannes passing. It seems like only yesterday that we were all in high school, carefree with no worries in the world. It seems so unfair that someone so young was taken from us so soon. My thoughts are with both families. She will continue to live on in our memories..

~ jeff michael donkervoort

Dear John and Cathie, Sharon Weston just phoned to tell me about Leanne's passing. I am new to the school program and very grateful for the role you played in helping young people to appreciate the sanctity of human life. Please know that your family will be in my heart, thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow. May the Lord fill you all with the peace only He can give. God bless you and keep you in the palm of His Hand. In Jesus' peace and with my sympathy, Bonnie Pember, office coordinator at London Area Right to Life Association

~ Bonnie Pember

Dear Judi and Family, Our sincere sympathy for the loss of your beautiful daughter. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Peace be with you at this most difficult time.

~ Anne & Shane Butcher

Dear Van Dommelen and Vannatter Families.... flipping through the paper this evening i saw the most beautiful picture of your precious Leanne. Her face is so full of hope and love and optimism. i had to read about her life, and was so sadden to learn about her young family that she leaves behind. i can't imagine the heartbreak and loss you are all going through. so while we don't know each other, please note, that others send prayers and Leanne's death only fortifies the need to find a cure for cancer. please keep strong and know that Leanne is with all of you always.

~ linda

Matt and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy from our family.

~ Navage Family

Matt; our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Her spirit lives on through the children and all the happy memories you both made. Leanne was an inspiration to all of us, and she teaches us all a lesson in remembering the simple things in life. Marg and Tiss Gheller

~ Marg And Tiss Gheller

Brad, my condolences for your loss. May memories, peace and comfort find you and yours during this difficult time. A friend always from the Niagara Division

~ Ken Dandenault

Matt, Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

~ Mike & Angela Dowson

Leanne will be missed. We had the opportunity of meeting Leanne when she was a dedicated server at The Dawghouse. She helped make our outings enjoyable as she was always cheerful and helpful. Thanks Leanne. You did make a difference in our lives. We are sad for her whole family and wish them all comfort at this time of grief.

~ Madeline & Ron Spurgeon

My deepest sympathies to Matt, Kurtis, Owen and Emerson. Praying for comfort and understanding as you celebrate the life of a wonderful wife and mother.

~ Sandra Ingratta

Matt our thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids and the rest of the family.Leanne was an exceptional young women who was an inspiration to everyone. RIP our Diamond in the Sky. May god give you strength in the days ahead.

~ Dennis & Shirley & Ryan Dickson

Another ANGEL taken too soon. Thank you for your strength and courage. You will be truly missed.

~ Debbi Harley

Leanne expressed to me many times how surprised she was at how many lives she touched. I was never surprised. I always told her she should write a book because each word she wrote was read and reflected on by all who loved her. She was profound and beautiful. She taught us all so much. But what I will try to emulate in my life is the way she loved her surroundings. I always admired her eye for beauty. She recognized the small details in everything and brought things to life. Her home is proof of this. Leanne was loved by so many and through our friendship I became true friends with the most beautiful women. I have read your letter to me a million times and I promise to do as you asked! I love you sweet sweet Leanne. And as you said many times "I love you to the moon and back"

~ Julie buchwald

It saddens me to be writing this. However, your strength, thirst for life and perseverance will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers go out to your husband, parents, friends, sister and your three beautiful and inspiring children. Rest peacefully beautiful soul.

~ Michael Prasad

Leanne, I will miss you terribly. Never have I met a stronger, more determined woman who never once lost your love of life. I have learned countless lessons from your journey. Rest in peace and know that you have left many hearts touched just by being you... xoxoxo

~ Stacey Davies

We feel so honoured and blessed to have known Leanne. Her strength, determination, courage, sense of humour and love of life are only some of the qualities that made her such a wonderful woman and friend. She was so many things to so many people, touching each and every one of our lives in so many ways. Such wonderful memories of happiness and love that will forever stay within our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family always. So much love Jennifer, Mark, Owen and Connor

~ Jennifer Stewart

Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family, and those you held close to your heart. Rest peacefully, Leanne.

~ Shannon Perron

My most comforting wishes to all of Leanne's family and friends. I feel fortunate to have been part of her life. I will remember her honesty, kindness, and incredible sense of humour, and will never take the priveledge of time for granted.

~ Christy Micallef

We are so very sad to read of your loss Judi.......Words, however kind, can't mend your heartache, but those who care and share your loss wish you comfort and peace of mind. Our memories of Leanne are as a little girl and reading the other condolences we can see that she grew to be a remarkable woman.

~ Jim and Gene Baynham

Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about the untimely passing of Leanne. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your lovely family. We will miss your warm smile and friendly wave in the neighborhood.

~ Anthony & Sharon Fleming

Matt, Owen and family We are so sorry for the loss of your amazing wife and mom. Although we did not have the honour of knowing Leanne well, it was always a pleasure to see her cheering on the hockey team and blowing her air horn! You could tell how proud she was of Owen when he was scoring his goals! You are all in our thoughts and in our hearts during this heart breaking time. Denise, Gary and Koen

~ Denise Rock

I was sad to hear of Leanne's passing. She was truly an inspiring woman. May the memories of Leanne and the love of family and friends surround you and give you strength in the days ahead.

~ Sheri Williams

We are so very sad to read of Leanne's passing. We knew her well as a young child but have lost contact over the years. It is easy to see how she grew into an amazing young woman. Please know you are and will continue to be, in our thoughts and prayers. Rest eternal grant unto her O Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon her. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

~ Bill and Joan Stiles

Rest peacefully, Leanne, and may your family be comforted knowing you had such powerful effect on those whome you cared for. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your legacy.

~ Tammy Ross

Leanne was one of my best friends from grade three through 13. I loved her, but somehow we lost contact after high school. I was happy to reconnect with her a few years ago after my husband and I had moved back to London. I followed her journey through her Facebook group, and had the chance to engage in a number of private messages back and forth - getting insight into what she was going through and how she was feeling. She was amazing. She's always been amazing, but this fight made her even more so. As a child, she was pretty passive, sweet and quiet, but as a woman, she was obviously anything but - although still incredibly sweet. My heart breaks for the three kids she's left behind because I know, like every parent does, how much it mattered to her to be here for them. But, she always will be - in thought, memory and spirit. I'm so sorry for this loss - the world's loss. xoxo to all her family, friends, acquaintances and everybody she touched in between.

~ Heather Scott

So very, very sorry for your loss. I hope you can find comfort in knowing how many lives she touched. My most heartfelt condolences to you at this difficult time.

~ Brendan Collins

We are saddened by the passing of Leanne. Please accept our sincerest condolences during this time. May strength and courage find you.

~ Pina & Jeff Da Costa

Our sincere condolences to you all for the loss of Leanne She sure was a wonderful role model.

~ Joan & Ingram Tobin

Judi,Doug and Leanne's family: So sorry to hear of Leanne's passing.While I did not know Leanne personally,from the comments I've read she must have been an amazing wife,mother,daughter and friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time.

~ Shirley A. Kerr

It saddens me to be writing this today. Although I was never friends with Leanne growing up I always thought highly of her. I followed her courageous journey through Facebook and it sad that the world has lost such a wonderful and beautiful human being. Who is now an angel up in heaven. My condolences to her friends and family.

~ Christina andersen

After fighting so hard, it's time to rest. You touched so many people with your strength, courage and amazing smile! Our thoughts and prayers for you and your family.

~ Maddie, JD and Family

My sincere condolences, may you rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time of loss.

~ Meredith Webster

Matthew, Kurt, Owen, and Emerson, we are so sorry for your loss. Also, to all Leanne's family and friends, our condolences as well. Leanne's beautiful spirit will be missed. It is clear from all that we knew of her that Leanne was much loved coming into this world and in her leaving of it. We will remember her; paraphrasing the poet e.e. cummings, we will carry her in our hearts and where we go, she will go.

~ Laurel, Mary, Theresa, Karen, and Patricia (Hogans)

Matt, very sorry to hear about you loss, my thoughts are with you.

~ John Murray

I remember when I first moved to London in grade 6 and riding the school bus with you and Janine. You had a shy, friendly smile for me even though you were years younger then me. Perhaps it was that we lived near each other and you knew I needed it but I always knew you would become an even greater person when you got older. It was great to reconnect with you in recent years and your memory will live on in the smiles of your beautiful children whom you taught to live so brightly. Rest well. Warmth, love and hugs to your family in this tough time as they remember the amazing you!

~ Beth Fielding (Fossum)

Deepest condolences to the Vannatters and Van Dommelen families for the loss of their beloved Leanne. As friends of Janine, we are keeping you all in our hearts at this very sad time.

~ Lenni Jabour and Simon Tuplin

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