Obituary of Simon Cornelis De Groot

May 19, 1934 – July 3, 2024

Simon entered his Lord’s presence in the early hours of July 3^rd, 2024, at 90 years of age.  While accepting the path the Lord had laid out for him, Simon longed to join his late wife Joanne in heaven.

Simon was a young child during World War 2 in the Netherlands, immigrating to Canada in 1958 where he culminated his career as a city engineer for the City of New Westminster until he took early retirement to ostensibly avoid computerization.

Shortly after arriving in Canada, he heard the gospel and recognized that he didn’t have the personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ that others had.  The hymn “Just as I am without one plea, but that Thy blood was shed for me” was resounding in his mind, leading Simon to simply trust in the finished work of Christ as he drove down Granville Street on his way to work.  He took in the words of the Saviour in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Simon’s Bible is annotated in precisely etched notes from years of study, teaching, and leadership at Fleetwood Gospel Hall. Simon was often preceded into the gospel hall with whistling or singing, followed by a warm handshake and welcome. 

Simon and his late wife Joanne were known to have their table filled with visitors, fellow believers, and strangers alike.

Simon is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Nel and Gerard, and many believers impacted by his years of service.  Appreciation is due to the kind staff at the Emerald in Elim Village and the staff at Laural Place Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, if desired, please consider donating to Gospel Perpetuating Foundation www.gpfcanada.ca (designated “in memory of Simon De Groot for Fleetwood Gospel Hall”).

Graveside service: 11:00am, July 25, 2024 at Surrey Centre Cemetery - 16671 Old McLellan Road, Surrey.

 

 

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