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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
KOLLEN, John William - It is with sinking hearts that we announce the passing of our Dad and Opa, John William Kollen, of Hanover. Dad passed away at the Guelph General Hospital, on a sunny day, July 28th, 2022 at the age of 73. He had at his side special invisible old friends, Phil and Brien.
Born in St. Catharines, Ont., on the 23rd of April 1949. He was the son of the late Koob Kollen and Arendje (Nieuwenhuis) Kollen. Dad was passionate about his time at sea with the Navy and was proud he served.
Dad/Opa, will be greatly missed by his children, Lisa, Martin (Rose), Dion (Kathleen), and grandchildren Megan, Reiner and Heyden. He was also survived by his daughter Jo Anne and his special nieces and nephews from all over Canada and the world. Also surviving John are his two younger sisters Althea (Hans), Dini (Steve) and younger brother Dennis (Hilary). They are now dreading knowing the Kollen sibling expiry date.
Dad enjoyed life to the absolute fullest up to his final days. He enjoyed drinking, carousing, eating fine foods and talking. Yes, he enjoyed talking, sometimes too much. One great regret Dad had was that he never got to see his beloved Montreal Expo's win the World Series, even though the Cubbies won while he was relatively still young. Dad's sense of humor, enormous personality, generous heart and unique sayings are going to be missed. He will also be remembered for living his life without fear and his incredible devotion to his family and friends. The family would like to thank everyone who has reached out to offer their condolences and support.
To honour his wishes, cremation has taken place and committal will take place at sea at a later date. A Celebration of Life will also be held at the place he loved most- The Royal Canadian Legion in Hanover at a later date.
Memorial Donations in Johns' memory can be made to the Hanover Legion- Poppy Fund or to a Church of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Mighton Funeral Home, Hanover.
May there be "Fair Winds & Following Seas"
The ashes of Petty Officer John Kollen were committed to the sea from HMCS SACKVILLE on 19 Sep 2023
Ships served in: HMCS CORNWALLIS - May 1966 to Sept 1966 HMCS FRASER - Oct 1966-Dec 1970 MARCOMHQ (FMG) - Dec 1970-Jul 1972 HMCS PROTECTEUR - Spring 1971 HMCS PRESERVER - Spring 1972 HMCS HURON - Aug 1972-Jul 1977 NRS NEWPORT CORNER - Jul 1977-Jun 1978 HMCS ATHABASKAN - Jun 1978-Jun 1981 HMCS TERRA NOVA - Jun 1981-Jun 1984 HMCS MIRAMICHI - Spring 1984 201 CFTSD Montreal - Jun 1984-Jul 1987
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