Klaas Jacob Vanderbaaren

In Loving Memory of Klaas Vanderbaaren

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Klaas Vanderbaaren, peacefully, on Monday, September 7, 2026.

Born July 4, 1932, in Stadskanaal, Netherlands, Dad came to Canada in 1954 with his new bride, Klasina. Together, they settled into life in Hamilton, learning to be loving husband and wife and welcoming three children: Cathy (Marshall), John (Connie), and Geoff (Kim).

He was a much-loved Opa to Lindsey (Chris), Kristen (Andrew), Tommy, William, Jennifer (Kevin), and Carolyn (Paul), and a loved great-grandfather to Liam, Austin, Peighton, Nicholas, Declan, and Benjamin. Klaas will also be missed by many relatives in Canada and Holland.

Mom and Dad moved our family to Caledonia in 1970, where they lived for more than 40 years before moving to St. Elizabeth Village in Hamilton.

Dad was a devout Christian and a member of Caledonia Presbyterian Church. He retired from Dofasco after more than 25 years, which afforded him time to pursue his passion for music. He sang in church choirs, the Dofasco Male Chorus, small groups, and performed many solo performances.

His first-tenor voice was memorable for its strength and quality, soaring higher than most.

When Mom passed away in 2019, Dad not only lost his wife of 65 years, but also his best friend. Dad spent his last few years living at St. Elizabeth Village/The Sanctuary in Hamilton.

After a brief illness, Dad has now been reunited with his wife in Heaven.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Caledonia Presbyterian Church, 117 Argyle Street North, Caledonia, Ontario, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., with a reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Klaas to Caledonia Presbyterian Church are welcomed.