Hendrik Johan (Hank) Vandermoer
June 5, 2026
Hendrik Johan (Hank) Vandermoer, at home with his wife of 72 years by his side, on Friday, June 5, 2026 in his 93rd year.
A child of World War II occupied Holland, Hank was 12 years old when the war ended in 1945. He sailed the Seven Seas as a stationary engineer in the merchant marines before marrying his childhood sweetheart, Anna, and moving to Canada with her and their daughter, Marja, the two most important people in his life. Throughout his life, Hank took a keen interest in many things. While working in plant engineering at Northern Telecom, he practiced and became proficient in golf, art, tai-chi, Reiki, sailing, sewing and macramé.
He will be dearly missed by his wife Anna (née Joostema), daughter Marja Southerst (Peter), granddaughter Danielle Annamalai (Kumar), grandson David Southerst (Michelle), great-granddaughters Daphne, Violet, Joanna, Robin and Tess, and by cousins Yvonne Chennell (Craig), and Tony Vandermoer (Lori).
Cremation has taken place.
Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Hank are asked to consider a charity of your choice.
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My deepest condolences to the. Vandermoer family. I was first introduced to Hank in 1979 in the Engineering department of Northern Telecom. Hank was a true and humble gentleman with a warm smile and with always an interesting story to tell - a well-rounded individual. Hank’s love of family was ever present - a devoted family man. His wife, Anna, was the love of his life, and Hank always beamed with pride when speaking of his precious daughter. Hank… we will miss your presence among us. Some stars shine so brightly that they are impossible to forget. I will not forget your kindness, your friendship, quick wit and your ever-present desire to hep others. You were one-of-a-kind ; we were all fortunate to have known you. May you soar high with the angels, my friend.
Very sad to hear of Hank’s passing. I worked with him at Nortel Networks, and always looked forward to see his smiling face. Hank was such a gentleman. He will be missed.
So many years, so many memories in so many wonderful ways. Loved very much by my Mom and Dad. You were a great role model and never afraid of a challenge or an adventure. We learned so much from you. Thank you Uncle Hank for being there for all of us.
~ Yvonne Chennell (Craig)