Robert Van Biezen

April 19, 2015

VAN BIEZEN, Robert
June 2, 1950 – April 19, 2015

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Robert Van Biezen announces his passing at the age of 64, following a brave three year battle with complications from cancer surgery.

Predeceased by his parents, Ted and Betty Van Biezen, Rob is survived by Kim, his loving wife of 33 years; their daughter, Ashley (Trevour); son, Shane (Rebecca); his brother, Hans (Ann); his cousin, Marjan (Roger) and many nieces, nephews and extended family both in Alberta and in the Netherlands.

Born in The Hague, Netherlands, Rob’s family immigrated to Canada in 1953 and settled in Three Hills, Alberta, where Rob was raised and went to high school. Rob had a long and fulfilling career with the City of Calgary, where he worked in the aquatics/recreation department, retiring after 39 years of service. For the last 33 years, Rob has been a proud resident of and advocate for the city of Airdrie, where he and Kim raised their family. Rob had the ability to connect with people throughout his life and, as a result, he was fortunate to have made and held a group of close, lifelong friends.

Above all, Rob cherished his family. His love for Kim, Ashley and Shane knew no bounds and he treasured the time they had together, particularly their summers at Green Acres on Pine Lake. He was so proud of both Ashley and Shane and their accomplishments, and was excited for their bright and happy futures.

We would like to send a special thank you to unit 112 at the Foothills Hospital for all their professional care and concern. To all the family, friends and neighbors, thank you for your constant support.

A Celebration of Rob’s Life will be held at The Airdrie Town and Country Center, #103 – 275 Jensen Drive NE, Airdrie, AB on Tuesday, April 28, 2015 at 1:00 pm, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rob’s memory to Alberta Guide Dogs, #102, 4 -14 St NW, Calgary AB, T2N 1Z4 or to a charity of your choice.

Messages of Condolence

I had the pleasure of working with Rob for many years in the Aquatics section of the City of Calgary. He was a loyal friend and great support at work. I especially appreciated his sense of humor and sense of fairness and his good practical common sense. He was always outgoing and positive. Rob was never unkind or petty and that is why he was my friend. He looked at the big picture. I know how much his family meant to him and how proud he was of them. He lived his life well, it has been cut short far too soon.

- Lorraine Bushfield

I enjoyed working with Rob at The City of Calgary. His focus on getting things done through the path of least resistance was exciting, challenging and refreshing, We always finished with him giving a grin and excusing himself because had more issues to address. We both retired around the same time and I enjoyed running into him at Costco and getting caught up. I hadn't seen Rob the last couple of years and reading of his passing was a shock this morning. He was a family man through and through. They were always part of our topic of dicussion. My deepest sympathies go out to his family.

- Chris Chiasson

Kim, Ashley and Shane, Our deepest condolences to you all on your loss. Marina, Mary Ann, Robyn and Aaron Smith Ashley, you used to babysit for us. We are from Kinkora originally.

- Marina Kelly-Smith

So sorry to hear the sad news of Rob's passing. I remember my times working with him in the City. He was a happy person who wanted to 'make a difference' and he did. My thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful family.

- maureen ng

Our love and prayers are with you all, we hope your memories will keep you strong. xoxo

- Diane and Phil

My sincere condolences on Rob's death.He was a good friend to me when we worked together at the City of Calgary pools.He had a great sense of humour and could always be counted on for support and advice. I have many happy memories of Red Cross and Life Saving Conventions. He will be missed. Chris Hampshire

- Chris Hampshire

Kim and family It was with such shock and sadness that Gary and I learned of Robs death. We had so many good times together and remember well his excitement at meeting you!! We lost touch over the years but Rob was never far from our thoughts. This is such a tough time, I am sure and we will pray for peace and that your memories will be your rock. Rob lived an amazing life and for that I am sure you are forever proud. Sincerely Jan and Gary Debney

- Jan and Gary Debney

Dear Kim ,Ashley and Shane so sorry to hear of your loss. I worked with both your parents for the City of Calgary Aquatic Dept and always enjoyed their company.Rob always had a great sense of humour and loved to visit with everyone. God Bless you all at this time!

- Lois Friesen

Rob and I attended grade school together. We did not keep I n touch, but I did keep tabs on fellow classmates. After he lost his trailer to the pine lake storm we were able to see each other one time as Rob and his family bought my parents trailer to replace theirs. My heart goes out to his family in this time of sorrow. May God be with you.

- Diane Vasseur Boles

Dear Kim and family, So sorry to read about Rob. He was always ready to keep me up to date on what Ashley and Shane were up to. We hope that all the happy family memories will give you strength in the days ahead. Our thoughts are with you.

- Penny and Chris Stathonikos

To The Van Biezen Family: In Times of tears, remember the laughter. In times of sadness, remember the smiles. In times of loneliness,remember all you shared. As I remember Rob and at the time working at the Renfrew Athletic Park/NE Community Programs Office; we always remembered Rob smiling, his good nature, and his professionalism. While we worked at SAIT with the RFM Program, there was always this Friendly Class Competion with Shared Smiles and Stories of Arena's vs Pools Staff, with everlasting memories for all. Hope it helps The Van Biezen family to know,that we all have those warm,loving memories of Rob, forever. Dennis Boghean and Family, Calgary AB. Canada

- Dennis R Boghean

To The Van Biezen Family; Rob and I worked together for many years at Canyon Meadows Aquatic and Fitness Centre. I particularly remember his kindness and generosity toward his co-workers. He brought laughter and fun during days that were filled with stress. His ability to relate to all personalities was amazing and it was a privilege to work with him. I will always remember Rob dancing on the deck, with joy, testing the new sound system. With pride he shared Ashley and Shane updates on a regular basis. He was a very proud family man. My deepest sympathy to his family.

- Angela Harper

Kim,Ashley and Shane You husband and dad ,he was an amazing man. There are no words to describe this great loss. Rob will always be in our hearts and we will always cherish the memory's we have. Dale,Thora,Chelsea and Darcy

- Dale & Thora Ray

It is with great sadness that I have just read of Robert's passing. I am happy knowing that my Unit 112 family were able to provide compassionate care for such a special loved one. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.

- Pauline

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