KLAAS SMIDTS

August 11, 2023

Klaas Smidts of Kincardine, died peacefully, at the South Bruce Grey Health Centre, Kincardine, Friday, Aug. 11, 2023, at the age of 98. Beloved husband of the late Anne Flikweert (2005). Loving father of Nick Smidts (Marie) of Woodstock, John Smidts (Karen) of Stratford, Jack Smidts (Marge) of Canfield and the late Ray Smidts (Wendy) of Stratford. Proud “Pake” of Carolyn, Brian, Darryl, Anita, Craig, Meghan, Heather, Ryan, Joshua, Michael, Lindsey and Ashley; and great-grandfather of 13. Predeceased by his parents, John Smidts and Lybet (nee Heemstra); as well as his brother and two sisters. Klaas will be fondly remembered by family and friends. Klaas immigrated to Canada in 1950, arriving in Halifax after a 10-day journey at sea. His experience in the Dutch navy, Seaman 1st class, aircraft carrier gunner, allowed him to handle the rough waters of that journey better than most. He had gone through the war and that experience made him tough but thankful. Over his lifetime, Klaas owned a dairy farm and worked in construction and manufacturing. He enjoyed soccer, woodworking, chess, Frisian handball “kaatsen,” and the Montreal Canadiens. He was a fan of the Lawrence Welk show, liked to sing, enjoyed dancing, was a strong New Democratic Party (NDP) supporter, was interested in the activities of his family and even in his final days, kept up with current events. A private family service will be held at the Davey-Linklater Funeral Home, Kincardine, Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2023, with Rev. Eric Watson officiating. Interment, Kincardine Cemetery. Memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy. Portrait and memorial on-line at www.daveylinklaterfuneralhome.com.